LONDON, Oct. 25 (Xinhua) -- Thousands of bars across England and Wales are to stay open late to enable people to celebrate the 75th anniversary next year of Victory in Europe Day (VE Day) marking the end of World War Two.
Britain's Home Secretary Priti Patel announced on Friday the plan to extend pub licensing hours across England and Wales on May 8-9 next year.
Under the proposal, pubs, clubs and bars that are licensed to trade until 11 p.m. will be allowed to open until 1 a.m. on both days.
VE Day is expected to be marked by celebrations and community events across the country to remember the contribution of British, Commonwealth and Allied Armed Forces personnel and citizens to the war effort.
Patel said: "VE Day is a landmark day in our history. Extending licensing hours will pave the way for commemorative events across Britain so we can pay tribute to the courage and determination of the millions who fought for our freedom or supported the war effort at home."
Past national occasions where the government has extended licensing hours included the Royal Wedding in 2018, the Queen's 90th birthday in 2016, and the 2014 FIFA World Cup.
