On 5 May 2027, the Netherlands celebrates Liberation Day (Bevrijdingsdag) – the anniversary of the liberation of 1945 and a nationwide celebration of freedom. In Amsterdam, the day brings free festivals, live music and a city buzzing with life.

How Amsterdam celebrates freedom

The day after the solemn Remembrance Day, the city switches to celebration. Free Liberation festivals with national and international acts take place in and around the city, the Liberation Fire is carried through the country by runners overnight, and cafés and terraces overflow from noon onwards.

What to do on 5 May

• Bevrijdingsfestival: free open-air festival with live music (locations announced in spring)
• 5 May concert: the national closing concert on the Amstel river, attended by the King – the most beautiful setting of the day, watched from the quaysides and boats
• City life: museums around freedom and war, including the Anne Frank House and the Resistance Museum, offer special programmes

Practical information

• Date: 5 May 2027 – festivals typically from 12:00 to 23:00
• Costs: the liberation festivals are free
• Tip: the closing concert on the Amstel is best experienced from the water – an evening canal cruise or private boat nearby is unforgettable