New York State Military Museum to Host "It's Over: A Celebration of the End of World War II"

SARATOGA SPRINGS, N.Y. (10/08/2025) (readMedia)-- The New York State Military Museum will mark the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II with a day of remembrance and celebration on Saturday, October 18, 2025.

The event, entitled "It's Over: A Celebration of the End of World War II," will bring history to life with music, films, family activities, and living history displays honoring the men and women who secured victory in 1945. Free ice cream courtesy of Stewart's Shops will be provided to all visitors throughout the day.

The event will run from 11:00am to 4:00pm at the NYS Military Museum at 61 Lake Avenue, Saratoga Springs, and is free and open to the public.

Throughout the day, visitors can enjoy:

• Vintage films and newsreels that highlight significant actions of the US Army, Navy and Marines during the war and capture the relief and joy of the war's end.

• A variety of children's activities including plane-spotting, signaling, and the chance to try on authentic Army and Navy uniforms and take home a photograph.

• A USO-style variety show with performers Paul and Alyssa Martin-Paul portraying Bob Hope and Alyssa as Dawn O'Day-bringing the sights and sounds of 1940s entertainment to the stage.

• World War II reenactors displaying gear, weapons, and uniforms.

• Restored World War II military vehicles from the NY-Penn Military Vehicle Collectors Club (weather permitting).

• Volunteers from the USS Slater, the last remaining Destroyer Escort afloat in America, displaying artifacts and sharing their knowledge of naval service during the war.

• Military historian Dr. Lisa Mundey providing a brief overview and analysis of how we won the war.

• Portraits of World War II veterans by local artist Jon Scott, accompanied by two World War II veterans who will discuss their experiences and answer visitor's questions.

"This anniversary gives us a chance not only to remember the sacrifices made during the war, but also to celebrate the joy and relief felt around the world when peace was finally declared," said Military Museum volunteer and event organizer Wayne Rozen. "We hope families will join us to connect with this important history in a fun and meaningful way."

The New York State Military Museum, located at 61 Lake Avenue in Saratoga Springs, preserves and shares the stories of New Yorkers in service from the Revolutionary War to the present. It is open Tuesday through Saturday from 10:00am – 4:00pm throughout the year and admission is free.

For more information, call 518-581-5100 or visit https://museum.dmna.ny.gov/ or https://friendsnysmm.com/