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VJ Day

Honor the brave men and women who fought for freedom on VJ Day - let's come together to honor their courage and sacrifice!

Wednesday

September 2026

Last updated February 7, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team

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YEARLY DATESeptember 2

OBSERVED INUnited States

CATEGORYCulture

SUBCATEGORYCivics

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

Celebrate VJ Day on September 2, a day that marks the end of World War II. On this day in 1945, Japan officially surrendered to Allied forces and marked the end of one of history's deadliest wars. Victory over Japan (VJ) Day is an important reminder of how far we have come as a society since then and serves as an opportunity for us to reflect on our shared history.

TIMELINE

VJ Day Timeline

America Joins WWII

Following the attack on Pearl Harbor in December 1941, the United States officially enters World War II.

Turning Point in the Pacific War

The Battle of Midway in June 1942 becomes a key turning point in the Pacific War, with the US Navy inflicting a decisive defeat on the Japanese Navy.

Pacific Island Hopping Begins

The United States and its allies begin an "island hopping" campaign to retake strategic Pacific islands controlled by Japanese forces.

Atomic Bombs Dropped on Japan

In August 1945, the United States drops two atomic bombs on the cities of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, leading to Japan's eventual surrender.

Japan Surrenders

On August 15, 1945 (announced on August 14 in the United States due to time zone differences), Japan accepts the allies' terms of unconditional surrender marking the end of World War II.

First VJ Day Celebrated

The first VJ Day is celebrated on September 2, 1945, after Japan formally signed the instrument of surrender on board the USS Missouri, marking the official end of World War II.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate VJ Day

Watch a documentary

Look for a documentary about VJ Day, such as the National Geographic special Victory in the Pacific. This will provide an informative overview of the day and its historical importance.

VISIT

Visit a museum

Visit a local museum to learn more about VJ Day and its significance in World War II history. Many museums feature exhibits dedicated to this historic event.

ATTEND

Attend a reenactment

Many cities host reenactments of VJ Day, which include military parades, air shows, and other events that pay tribute to those who served on that day.

HOLD

Hold a remembrance ceremony

Hold a remembrance ceremony with friends and family to honor those who fought on VJ Day. You can also light candles or perform other traditional observances.

ORGANIZE

Organize a fundraiser

Organize a fundraiser to benefit veterans’ organizations or programs that help World War II veterans and their families. This is an excellent way to show your appreciation for the sacrifices they made.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why VJ Day is Important

VJ Day is a reminder of our shared humanity

VJ Day serves as a reminder that despite our differences, we are all bound together by a common humanity. As we celebrate this historic victory and remember those who gave so much for our safety, it's important to recognize that peace can only be achieved through compassion, understanding and cooperation among nations.

VJ Day marks the end of World War II

VJ day is an annual celebration in the United States that marks Victory over Japan and the end of World War II. It celebrates a momentous event in history, when Allied forces defeated Japan and secured lasting peace in the Pacific theater.

VJ Day commemorates the sacrifice of veterans

VJ day provides an opportunity to thank and commemorate all the brave soldiers who served during World War II and made tremendous sacrifices to ensure peace and freedom in the world.

Related holidays

SAT

May 2026

Culture

Victory in Europe Day

Commemorate Victory in Europe Day - honor those who fought for our freedom by celebrating the end of WWII with respect and gratitude.

Hiroshima Day

On Hiroshima Day, we remember the tragedies of war and honor those affected by spreading messages of peace and hope.

Nagasaki Memorial Day

Honor the lives lost and promote peace on Nagasaki Memorial Day - a day to remember and reflect on the devastating effects of nuclear warfare.

Yamashita Surrender Day

National special working holiday in the Philippines on September 3 to commemorate the surrender of Japanese military forces led by General Tomoyuki Yamashita in 1945.

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