LEIDEN – On Monday, May 5th, the city of Leiden will transform into a vibrant celebration of freedom, with music, markets, activities for all ages, and moments of reflection. This year’s edition is especially significant as the Netherlands marks 80 years of liberation. Across the historic city center, a wide variety of events will bring people together—from the lively Liberation Fair to a stirring taptoe performance and a poetic light ceremony. Leiden invites everyone to celebrate freedom in all its forms.
Liberation Fair: The Beating Heart of the Day
The festivities begin at 10:00 AM with the traditional Bevrijdingsbraderie (Liberation Fair). The Herenstraat and Doezastraat will become a bustling corridor of market stalls, live music, and cozy terraces. The fair starts at the Koninginnelaan and stretches all the way through the Doezastraat. Local shop owners and artisans will bring their specialties outdoors, offering everything from quirky trinkets and vintage finds to regional delicacies.
Along the route, visitors can stop at bar stands for a refreshing drink, while several stages feature live performances throughout the day. Whether you’re strolling through the market or relaxing on a terrace, music and atmosphere are guaranteed.
This year, there’s even more fun in store for the youngest visitors. The Van der Werfpark will host a children’s flea market, where kids can sell their old toys or treasures. Meanwhile, a floating theatre boat offers an interactive and magical adventure for children to enjoy and participate in.
Liberation Flame: A Living Piece of History
One of the day’s most meaningful moments takes place around noon: the arrival of the Liberation Flame at the main stage in the Herenstraat. The Roadrunners, a group of dedicated runners, will carry the flame all the way from Hotel de Wereld in Wageningen—the historic site where the Nazi occupation officially ended on May 5th, 1945. After running through the night, they will present the flame to the mayor of Leiden. From there, they will continue their journey to The Hague. The arrival of the flame is a powerful moment of remembrance and celebration.
Creative Markets Throughout the City
Leiden’s city center will also host several themed markets, each with its own creative twist. The Art Market showcases work by local and national artists. The Swan Market features original lifestyle products by creative entrepreneurs, while the Concept Market offers unique gifts and quirky finds. These markets naturally connect with the Herenstraat and Doezastraat, guiding visitors toward the heart of the festivities at the Lammermarkt.
Taptoe and Evening Festival on the Lammermarkt
At 1:30 PM, the Liberation Taptoe begins at the Lammermarkt, a spectacular musical show performed by regional show and marching bands. Groups such as Amigo Leiden, Band of Liberation, and K & G will take the stage with powerful music and synchronized choreography. Seating is available for visitors who wish to enjoy the event comfortably.
Right after the taptoe, the evening Liberation Festival kicks off at the same location. The music lineup caters to all ages and tastes, featuring everything from soul and rock to upbeat dance. Highlights include the powerhouse vocals of Berget Lewis, the infectious energy of the band O’nine, and DJ Billy The Kit, who closes the night with an explosive mix of rock and rave. Local favorite Robert van Hemert and piano virtuoso Davy Keys will also take the stage.
Reflect and Remember: “Let Your Thoughts Float”
From 7:00 to 9:00 PM, the waters between the Nieuwsteegbrug and Groenebrug will become a scene of gentle light and reflection. During Let Your Thoughts Float, visitors can write down a wish, a thought of freedom, or a message of hope on a small slip of paper, place it in a floating boat with a light, and send it drifting across the water. The result is a moving display of connection, beauty, and remembrance—a poetic end to a day of celebration.
Practical Information
All locations are easily accessible. The Lammermarkt parking garage will be open all day, and online reservations are available via the City of Leiden’s official website.
Leiden warmly invites everyone to come together on May 5th to celebrate 80 years of freedom—through music, community, remembrance, and joy.
A Moment of Silence Before the Celebration
It is important to remember that the day before, on May 4th, the Netherlands commemorates Dodenherdenking (National Remembrance Day). At 8:00 PM, the entire country observes two minutes of silence in honor of the victims of war and peacekeeping missions. This moment of reflection sets the tone for the celebration of freedom the following day.
