Liberation Day (Bevrijdingsdag)

Liberation Day (Bevrijdingsdag) is a Dutch national holiday celebrated on May 5, marking the end of the Nazi occupation during World War II. On this day in 1945, German forces in the Netherlands surrendered to Canadian forces, ending five years of occupation. The holiday celebrates freedom, democracy, and human rights, and is preceded by Remembrance Day (Dodenherdenking) on May 4.

On May 5, 1945, General Johannes Blaskowitz signed the German surrender in the Netherlands at Wageningen, ending World War II for the Dutch. The country had been occupied since May 1940, suffering greatly during the war, including the Hongerwinter (Hunger Winter) of 1944-45. The first Liberation Day was celebrated on May 5, 1945, with spontaneous festivities across the country. In 1990, Liberation Day became an official national holiday, though it is only a day off from work once every five years (in years ending in 0 and 5).

Liberation Day is celebrated with liberation festivals held in 14 cities across the Netherlands, featuring free concerts, debates, and cultural events. The day begins with a ceremony in Wageningen, where the German surrender took place. Festival stages across the country host both Dutch and international artists. The celebrations emphasize themes of freedom and democracy. Many people wear orange and red-white-blue (Dutch flag colors). The day follows Remembrance Day, creating a two-day period of reflection and celebration.