As these pictures go to prove, the efforts of the generation who had it far harder than we do is as appreciated in 2020 as much as it ever was.
Have a look at these photographs to see Hartlepool celebrating with a swing – and all within the rules.
1. Over four generations, VE Day means so much
Atten ... shun! William Trattles, 10, pays tribute on Merganser Road to his great-grandfather Frank Smith, who served in the RAF during World War Two. Photo: Hartlepool Mail
2. Lest we forget
Veteran Joseph Copeland pays his respects at Hartlepool's Cenotaph. Picture by Frank Reid. Photo: Hartlepool Mail
3. Window display
Ian Malcolmson and his daughter Bernadette brought their own pageantry to the Headland on VE Day. Picture by Frank Reid. Photo: Hartlepool Mail
4. We're gonna party like it's 1945
The bunting is all up before the celebrations begin on Crowland Road. Picture by Frank Reid. Photo: Hartlepool Mail