46 saved#3,487 of 6,224

Liberation Day (Bevrijdingsdag)

On Liberation Day, we honor and remember those who fought for our freedom. Let's celebrate the end of oppression and embrace a better future together!

Wednesday

May 2027

Last updated February 7, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team

Have an update or spot an error?

YEARLY DATEMay 5

OBSERVED INNetherlands

CATEGORYCulture

SUBCATEGORYCivics

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

Get ready to celebrate freedom and peace on Liberation Day (Bevrijdingsdag) on May 5! This important holiday is celebrated in the Netherlands to commemorate the end of Nazi occupation during World War II. On this day, people gather together for festivals, parades, and concerts while reflecting on the sacrifices made for their country's liberation. It's a day to honor and remember those who fought for their freedom and express gratitude for the peace they have today. So let's join in on the festivities and spread positivity and unity on this special day!

TIMELINE

Liberation Day (Bevrijdingsdag) Timeline

Operation Market Garden

This Allied operation aimed to liberate the Netherlands from German control but ended in failure. It set the stage for subsequent liberation efforts.

Liberation by Canadian Forces

On May 5, 1945, Canadian General Charles Foulkes and German Commander-in-Chief Johannes Blaskowitz reached an agreement for German forces to surrender in the Netherlands.

First Bevrijdingsdag Celebration

The first Liberation Day was celebrated a year after the end of World War II, marking the beginning of an annual tradition.

Bevrijdingsdag Becomes Public Holiday

In 1990, it was decided to hold a national holiday every five years to celebrate the liberation. Canadians are often included due to their role in liberating the Netherlands.

Annual National Celebration

Liberation Day celebrations became an annual event in 2000, with activities and remembrance services held throughout the Netherlands.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate Liberation Day (Bevrijdingsdag)

Attend a parade

Many cities and towns hold parades to celebrate Liberation Day. Check your local news or event listings to find out where and when the parade will take place, and make plans to attend with friends and family.

HOST

Host a BBQ

Gather friends and family for a BBQ to celebrate Liberation Day. Prepare traditional Dutch dishes like Bitterballen, Frikandel, or Kroketten, and enjoy the day together in the warm weather.

WATCH

Watch a fireworks display

Many cities in the Netherlands put on spectacular fireworks displays to celebrate Liberation Day. Find out where the nearest one is and make plans to watch it with friends and family.

VISIT

Visit a war museum

Take the time to learn more about the history of Liberation Day by visiting a war museum. Many museums offer free admission on this day and have special exhibits and events to commemorate the holiday.

PARTICIPATE

Participate in a charity run

Many charity runs are held on Liberation Day, with proceeds going towards honoring those who fought for freedom during World War II. Sign up for a race and run for a good cause while celebrating this important holiday.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why Liberation Day (Bevrijdingsdag) is Important

It fosters unity and solidarity

Liberation Day brings people from all over the Netherlands together to commemorate their shared history and values. It is a day where differences are put aside and everyone can come together to celebrate their common love for freedom and peace.

It commemorates a significant event in history

Liberation Day, also known as Bevrijdingsdag, marks the end of World War II and the liberation of the Netherlands from Nazi occupation. It is an important reminder of the sacrifices made and the bravery shown by those who fought for freedom during that time.

It celebrates peace and freedom

On this day, people come together to celebrate the values of peace and freedom. It serves as a reminder to always strive for these ideals and to never take them for granted. Liberation Day honors the past while also looking towards a peaceful future.

Related holidays

TUE

May 2026

Culture

National Remembrance Day in Netherlands

On National Remembrance Day in Netherlands, we honor the fallen heroes and reflect on the sacrifices that have shaped our nation.

Guernsey Liberation Day

On Guernsey Liberation Day, we honor and remember the bravery and sacrifices made by those who fought for our freedom. Let's celebrate their legacy!

Victory in Europe Day

Commemorate Victory in Europe Day - honor those who fought for our freedom by celebrating the end of WWII with respect and gratitude.

Russian Victory Day

On Russian Victory Day, we honor the bravery and sacrifices of those who fought for our freedom - let's remember their heroism and celebrate together.

34Read

FOR MARKETERS & CREATORS

Turn every day into a moment your audience actually shows up for.

8.4M

Monthly readers

5K+

Holidays tracked

Holiday Calendar for Brands Developer API