On 5 May, we celebrate freedom in the Netherlands. We pause to remember the end of World War II in 1945 and realise that freedom cannot be taken for granted. It is a day when we come together to celebrate living in freedom, but also to reflect on its value. This combination of remembrance and celebration makes Liberation Day special every year.
Commemorate & celebrate
We celebrate that the Netherlands was liberated from German occupation in Europe and Japanese occupation in Asia in 1945. At the same time, 5 May is also a moment of reflection. Freedom is fragile and not taken for granted everywhere. In many parts of the world, people still live in unfreedom. On this day, we also pause to reflect on that.
Here in Groningen, celebrating freedom happens big during the Bevrijdingsfestival at the Drafbaan in the Stadspark. Every year, tens of thousands of visitors flock to the festival grounds, where music, art and meeting come together. The grounds are open from 12:00 to 00:00 and are free to all. What makes this festival extra special are the traditions that take place all over the country at the same time. For instance, the Liberation Fire is lit as the start of the day and at five to five we reflect together on the meaning of freedom during the impressive 5-for-5 moment.
Besides music, there is much more to experience at the Groningen Bevrijdingsfestival . On the grounds, you will find various stages, freedom lectures and cultural programmes where you can learn more about freedom and current themes. For children, there is a special Kids Area with theatre, music and activities. There are also plenty of food trucks and places to sit down and enjoy the atmosphere.
""Freedom you celebrate together" "
Line-up
This year, too, there is a strong programme with well-known and upcoming artists. You can enjoy performances by Douwe Bob, Sophie Straat, SEF and ELMER, among others. In addition, the Jostiband will perform as Ambassador of Freedom, together with Maan and Reinier Zonneveld. The line-up will be further complemented by even more artists, spread across several stages on the grounds.
View the line-up
