The May Day bank holiday will be moved next year to help mark the 75th anniversary of VE Day.
The bank holiday, usually held on a Monday, will instead be held four days earlier on Friday May 8.
It will allow a three day long commemoration of VE Day, also known as Victory In Europe Day, where fighting against Nazi Germany ended in Europe towards the end of World War Two.
With remaining veterans now in their 90s - or older - this could be the last major chance to thank them during their lifetime for defeating the Nazis.
"It will ensure as many people as possible have the opportunity to remember and honour our heroes of the Second World War and reflect on the sacrifices of a generation," said Business Secretary Greg Clark to the BBC.
He added the move is a "right and fitting tribute".
May 8, 1945, was the date in which the Nazi's surrendered after Berlin fell and Adolf Hitler committed suicide in his bunker.
While bank holidays are usually set in stone, Government ministers can move them by requesting a Royal Proclamation under the Banking and Financial Dealings Act 1971.
It is the second time May Day has been moved due to VE Day,
In 1995, it was moved back to May 1 as part of the 50th anniversary.
