A beacon lighting ceremony will be held to honour the bravery and sacrifice of those who served and lost their lives on this historic day.

On this historic occasion, the council invites residents and visitors alike to gather at Stevenage Town Centre Joyride on Thursday 6 June to pay tribute to the bravery and sacrifice of those who served during the pivotal World War II invasion.

The beacon lighting ceremony serves as a poignant reminder of the courage and resilience displayed by the Allied forces on 6 June 1944, when they launched the largest amphibious invasion in history, marking the beginning of the end of the Second World War.

Councillor Richard Henry, Leader of the Council said: “Come and join in this momentous occasion where we stand together as a community to remember those who have given their lives in battle and celebrate the 80th D-Day Beacon Lighting ceremony. It is because of these brave people we are able to stand here together in a shared tribute to the courage and sacrifice that has shaped our history and illuminated the path to freedom for us all.”

The ceremony will include a welcome address from the Mayor of Stevenage, prayers, and readings by the Reverend at St Andrew & St George, followed by a performance from a bag piper. The beacon will then be lit at 9:15pm to join other beacons being lit nationally across the UK and Commonwealth.

The Stevenage Local Council invites all community members to join in this significant event. Together, we can pay tribute to those who fought for our freedom and reflect on the enduring importance of unity and peace.

Stevenage Borough Council encourages the community to join in remembrance and solidarity on this significant anniversary. For more information, please email our Events Team.