5th May in Wageningen: Historical Celebration

Wageningen might be a small city, but it holds a significant place in Dutch history. The connection to the end of World War II is more than just a date on the calendar, it is part of Wageningen’s identity.
If you’re unfamiliar with these historical ties, this blog is just for you. Read along and find out!

The Significance of May 5th

Each year on May 5th, the Netherlands celebrates Liberation Day (Bevrijdingsdag). It marks the official end of the German occupation in the country during World War II.
This historic event is annually marked with many celebrations and festivities around the whole country, however, one city stands out – Wageningen.

Interesting: Despite Bevrijdingsdag being a national holiday, there is a “day off” once every 5 years. For school and university students, however, it is usually a holiday every year. This is an especially nice opportunity for WUR students, as you’re about to see!

 

Wageningen: The City of Liberation

Exactly 81 years ago, on 5th May 1945, the liberation of the Netherlands was sealed in Wageningen! That is why the city proudly carries the title “the City of Liberation“. But where exactly did this happen in Wageningen?

• The negotiation of the surrender of the Germans started in Hotel de Wereld, making it a monument of peace and freedom.
• A day later, the official signing of the capitulation took place in the old Wageningen University’s auditorium (at that time right next to Hotel de Wereld), putting an end to the German occupation in the Netherlands.

How is Liberation Day celebrated in Wageningen?

• Many people from all over the Netherlands head to Wageningen to experience Liberation Day.
  One of the most symbolic events of this day is the Liberation Parade. Military successors and veterans take part to pay tribute to those who lost their lives in the Second World War.
• Next to that, there are 15 stages with music and more than 80 performances, creating a lively, energetic atmosphere throughout the crowd. And if you think this is only for a couple of hours, you’re quite mistaken. Celebrations are taken seriously here, and music doesn’t stop all day long! Everywhere you go in the city, you will see people enjoying themselves and dancing.
  As we all know, a lot of dance moves make you want to snack on something or have a refreshing drink. Well, you can enjoy plenty of those with the many traditional Dutch snacks and foods offered around!

 

Student Experience

Being a WUR student on the 5th of May is special because this means you’re in the heart of all celebrations and parades organised for the Liberation Day!
It is a great opportunity to get together with friends, head to the city centre and enjoy your time there. See what Samir has to tell you about his experience from the Liberation Day in Wageningen this year:

This is my second year celebrating the 5th of May in Wageningen and it never disappoints! The city turns into a big festival with different stages and music. Everyone is dancing, chatting and having so much fun! You can see the crowd surrounding bars, food trucks and performances. My favourite was the Miniculture stage, where most of the students were dancing to nice and catchy music. The best part is that the DJs are also students, so the vibes are immaculate and very welcoming!

As you can see, Wageningen is not just a student city, but is deeply rooted in the history of the Netherlands. From historical parades to many fun activities, the 5th of May is a memorable day, where you can see a bit of everything. Already looking forward to it next year!

Stay up-to-date with all the information about Liberation Day by keeping an eye on the Wageningen 45  and WUR’s Instagram page. You’ll find schedules, activities and more useful content about the day!

See you around,

Zlatoslava