Bars, pubs and clubs will be allowed to open for longer to mark the 75th anniversary of VE day.
A special order made today in parliament will allow those licensed to trade until 11pm, to open for an extra two hours on Friday, May 8 and Saturday, May 9 from 11am to 1am the following morning.
The order will also apply to premises licensed to provide entertainment including music, dances, plays and films.
This year, the early May bank holiday has been moved from Monday, May 4 to Friday, May 8 to mark the anniversary.
Commemorations and events will be held to celebrate the heroic efforts of the British, Commonwealth and Allied armed forces, along with ordinary citizens who contributed to the war effort.
Home Secretary Priti Patel said: “VE Day events across the country will see the nation come together to pay tribute to the heroes who fought for our freedom and supported the war effort at home.
“Pubs are at the heart of our communities and this is a great opportunity to raise a glass to mark this historic occasion.”
Previously, the government has extended licensing hours for national occasions including the 2014 World Cup in Brazil and the Diamond Jubilee celebrations in 2012.
