Liberation Day
May 5, Monday
Traditions and Events
Freedom Festivals. Festivals celebrating freedom are organised throughout the country. Concerts, theatre performances and exhibitions are held in major cities such as Amsterdam, Rotterdam and Utrecht.
Official Ceremonies. In Amsterdam, the King and dignitaries participate in ceremonial events. The Freedom Relay (Vrijheidsvuur) lights a symbolic flame of freedom, which is then spread throughout the country.
Educational Programmes. Schools and universities offer lessons and lectures on World War II, the occupation and the fight for freedom.
Parades and Performances. Many cities hold parades with veterans and reenactments of World War II.
Every five years, Liberation Day is an official holiday for all residents of the Netherlands. In other years, the holiday is considered a working day, although events are held throughout the country.