Remembrance Day and Liberation Day in Amsterdam

Remembrance Day (Dodenherdenking)
Annual; May 4
What began as a day to honor soldiers and civilians who lost their lives in World War II, this national holiday now serves as a day to remember the fallen from other wars and peacekeeping efforts, as well.

With some exceptions, most places of business in Amsterdam are open on May 4. The biggest commemoration is at Amsterdam's National Monument on Dam Square, where every year at 8 p.m. Queen Beatrix places a wreath and leads the country in two minutes of silence. For an overview of more Remembrance Day events, visit the official website (website only in Dutch).

Liberation Day (Bevrijdingsdag)
Annual; May 5
On May 5, 1945, a force of primarily Canadian troops liberated the Netherlands from the Nazi German occupation of World War II. While May 4 is a solemn day of remembrance for those who died in the war, May 5 is a festive day marked by parties and concerts. The biggest celebration in Amsterdam, the Bevrijdingsfestival (website only in Dutch), takes place on the sprawling grass square, Museumplein. Many places of business in Amsterdam have limited opening hours.