Trump Declares May 8 as New National Holiday

WASHINGTON, D.C. — President Donald Trump has declared May 8 as a new national holiday to honor the end of World War II. In a post on Truth Social, Trump emphasized that the United States should join other nations in celebrating the victory achieved by the Allies.

“All over the world, the Allies are celebrating the Victory we had in World War II. The only Country that doesn’t celebrate is the United States of America, and the Victory was only accomplished because of us,” Trump stated.

This year marks the 80th anniversary of what is recognized internationally as Victory in Europe Day (V-E Day), a date when many countries, including England, commemorate the event with ceremonies and celebrations.

On May 1, Trump indicated his desire to recognize both May 8 and November 11, which he suggested could be renamed “Victory Day for World War I.” However, he acknowledged that November 11 is already established as Veterans Day, a federal holiday honoring military veterans.

Trump clarified that the declaration for May 8 will not result in a paid holiday for federal employees, as creating federally recognized holidays requires Congressional approval. Nevertheless, he noted, “We will not be closing the Country for these two very important Holidays because we already have too many Holidays in America.”

Trump is expected to formally sign a proclamation recognizing May 8 as a holiday. Although he proposed a rename for November 11, his recent posts did not specify what the new name for that day would be.

Veterans Day has a long history, first established in 1919 to honor the end of World War I, and has been known by its current name since 1971. It is one of 12 federal holidays scheduled for 2025, while May 8 currently does not appear on Florida‘s list of paid holidays.

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis did not immediately respond to inquiries regarding the state’s recognition of Trump’s recent proclamation.