Memorial Day in Amsterdam, observed on May 4th, holds profound significance as a day to honour and remember the victims of war. This solemn occasion is marked by various ceremonies and events throughout the city, culminating in a moment of silence at 20:00, where the city pauses to reflect and pay tribute to those who have sacrificed for peace.
The Netherlands has a unique way of commemorating the Second World War, with two pivotal days dedicated to this tribute: Remembrance Day (Dodenherdenking) on May 4th and Liberation Day (Bevrijdingsdag) on May 5th. Remembrance Day serves as a memorial for all Dutch individuals who lost their lives in conflicts worldwide, specifically World War II victims. Liberation Day, following Remembrance Day, celebrates the freedom of the Netherlands from Nazi occupation after World War II, symbolizing the country’s resilience and commitment to freedom, independence, and tolerance.
Over the years, Amsterdam has witnessed memorable Remembrance Day and Liberation Day celebrations. The main Remembrance Day ceremonies are attended by the Dutch royal family, military leaders, and veterans, featuring speeches, flower-laying ceremonies, and moments of reflection to honour the fallen soldiers and civilians. Notable locations like the National Monument on Dam Square in Amsterdam have been key to these ceremonies, broadcast live on television and radio nationwide. In the past, Liberation Day has been a day of national observance, with schools and businesses closed every five years to mark this significant occasion. The day is filled with various activities and events, including Liberation Festivals with musical performances, Open Jewish Homes – Resistance Homes where stories of life during the war are shared, and special events for children to engage in the spirit of freedom and remembrance. The Amstel Concert, one of the grandest events of Liberation Day, features artists from various genres performing on a floating podium against the backdrop of the Royal Carré Theatre, attended by the King, Queen, and volunteers of the festivities.
With just a few days to Memorial Day and Liberation Day, Amsterdam City is gearing up for another round of commemorative events and activities to honour the past and celebrate the present. From the Silent March to the National Commemoration ceremony on Dam Square, the city will unite again in remembrance and reflection.
Planning a trip to Paris ? Get ready !
These are Amazon’s best-selling travel products that you may need for coming to Paris.
Bookstore
- The best travel book : Rick Steves – Paris 2023 – Learn more here
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- Samsonite Winfield 2 28″ Luggage – Learn more here
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Check Amazon’s best-seller list for the most popular travel accessories. We sometimes read this list just to find out what new travel products people are buying.
