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Voorschoten Municipality Logo
Voorschoten Municipality Logo

80 Years of Freedom

The year 2025 is a special year. We are commemorating the 80th anniversary of the liberation of the Netherlands. Here in Voorschoten, too, we are marking this commemorative year. At a time when peace cannot be taken for granted, it remains important to keep our history and stories alive. Eighty years ago, we made a promise to one another: never again.

The Municipality of Voorschoten, in collaboration with various organizations, associations, and businesses, has put together an events calendar to mark 80 years of freedom. Throughout much of the year, various events will take place in our village to commemorate World War II and celebrate our freedom. 

Please note: All activities listed are subject to change. 

      

"80 Years of Freedom" Logo, Municipality of Voorschoten

Recent Activities

  • National Commemoration, August 15, 1945

    Date:  

    On August 15, 1945, World War II officially came to an end for the Netherlands. Mayor Stemerdink lays a wreath at the plaque of the Indies Monument near the Dorpskerk.

    By invitation only

  • Dutch Veterans Day

    Date:  

    On National Veterans Day, the veterans' flag is raised in Voorschoten to honor all veterans who have served, from World War II to current missions.

    Public

  • Unveiling of the Witte Anjerperk Veterans' Memorial

    Date:  

    As part of the 80th anniversary of Freedom, the White Carnation Garden is being expanded to include a permanent monument. Veterans from Voorschoten are planting the final flowers to mark this special moment.

    By invitation only

  • Commemoration of the Battle for the Residentie, May 1940

    Date:  

    On May 10, we will commemorate the start of World War II and the young soldiers who fell in the Battle of the Residence at the former Ypenburg Air Base in The Hague.

    By invitation only

  • Visits to Residents of Nursing Homes

    Date:  

    On May 8, Voorschoten will celebrate the 80th anniversary of its liberation. The mayor will visit nursing homes to celebrate freedom with the residents and hear their stories.

    By invitation only

  • Liberation Concert “Celebrate Freedom in Voorschoten!”

    Date:  

    Time:   -

    Location:
    Village Church

    Celebrate May 5 with a drop-in concert by Exultate Deo at the Dorpskerk. The theme of “Peace and Freedom” is central to the Liberation Concert, which features a mix of classical and popular music.

    Public

  • Lighting the Liberation Bonfire

    Date:  

    Time:   -

    Location:
    Voorstraat

    On the night of May 4–5, runners from Voorschoten '97 will bring the Liberation Flame to Voorschoten, where it will be lit in a festive ceremony as a symbol of peace and freedom.

    Public

  • Sports Afternoon for Teens

    Date:  

    Time:   -

    Location:
    De Vliethorst Sports Hall

    Join us for the sports afternoon at De Vliethorst Sports Hall! An active and fun afternoon for all young people in Voorschoten.

    Public

  • Liberation Day Lunch

    Date:  

    Time:   -

    Location:
    Voorstraat

    Celebrate freedom on May 5 during the festive Freedom Lunch on Voorstraat. A time for togetherness, connection, and reflection for all residents of Voorschoten.

    Public

  • Neighborhood Activities

    Date:  

    Time:   -

    Location:
    Alettahof and De Boschbloem

    The community centers organize various activities for local residents.

    Public

  • Flags

    Date:  

    Time:   -

    Location:
    Voorschoten

    Fly the flag before 9:00 a.m. on May 5 and you could win a festive cake, presented by the mayor and local organizations!

    Public

  • Memorial Service

    Date:  

    Location:
    Village Church

    During the memorial service on May 4, Sinfonietta Voorschoten will perform music, interspersed with poems read by volunteers from Dorpskerk and Poëzie Voorschoten.

    Public