On 5 May the Netherlands celebrates its liberation in 1945, and fourteen cities hold free Bevrijdingsfestivals (Liberation Festivals). The Hague’s takes over the Malieveld, the big field right next to Den Haag Centraal, with two music stages, a festival market, talks and performances, and plenty for children. The Liberation Fire, lit in Wageningen the night before, is carried to each festival city.
After the solemn Remembrance Day on 4 May, the mood switches to a proper party celebrating freedom, and it is free.
- When: Wednesday 5 May 2027, 10:30 to 23:00
- Where: Malieveld, Den Haag
- Tickets: free
- Getting there: direct trains from Haarlem to Den Haag Centraal; the Malieveld is a few minutes’ walk from the station.
Good to know: the line-up is announced in spring. It gets crowded in the afternoon, so arrive early if you want to be near the main stage.
Planning your year? See everything on the events calendar.
