Liberation Day Amsterdam

The 5^th of May it is Liberation Day in Amsterdam, during this day the Dutch celebrate the end of World War 2. The day is an interesting mix between a holiday and working day, with many festivals and government buildings being closed but shops and offices doing business as usual. Because of the festivities in the city, public transport has a slightly altered route. Please check the website of the GVB before you head out into the city.

Liberation Day Amsterdam – Things to Do

This makes it a very special time to visit the city. Obviously you can just do as you had planned on beforehand, but there are also some special events and things to do. To make planning your trip a bit easier we’ve compiled a list of the best things to do during the 5^th of May.

Het Vrije Westen

Westerpark, Amsterdam | 11:00 -23:00 | Information

Het Vrije Westen is a free festival in Amsterdam West. Here you will find all kinds of live music, food and a market. Besides that there is also entertainment for kids and performances by local artists and dance groups.

Vrijland Festival

Blijburg | Pampuslaan 501, Amsterdam | 12:00 – 23:00 | Tickets & Information

Vrijland Festival is a big music festival at the city’s beach! At IJburg Beach there are various stages with techno, live/ bass ‘n beats and house! Besides that the famous Disco Dolly also has their own chapel at the festival. For more information, the line-up and tickets please go their website.

Het Amsterdams Verbond

Sportpark de Eendracht | Bok de Korverweg 4, Amsterdam | 12:00 -23:00 | Tickets & Information

Het Amsterdams Verbond is a collaboration between various organizations that are all involved in the Amsterdam nightlife. Together they’ve created a festival where everyone can come together and celebrate their freedom. The highlight is at 20:00 when the music stops for two minutes and the crowd is encouraged to make as much noise as possible!  Go to their website for more information, the line-up and tickets!

Freedom Feasts

At 18:00 the church bells ring, this is the start of the freedom feasts. On various locations in the city dinners for friends and soon-to-be friends are hosted. You can even host one yourself too! Most of the freedom meals are free and can be found on the street dinners or the 4 & 5 May website.

Freedom Concert at The Amstel

Amstel | 21:00 -22:30
Every year the day ends at the Amstel with an impressive light classical concert at the water itself. This concert is visited by the Dutch Royals and free for everyone to visit.