Grand celebration of 80 years of freedom in Geleen on May 5, 2025

On Monday, May 5, 2025, The Netherlands will celebrate 80 years of liberation – and they won't let it go unnoticed in Geleen!

On this national holiday, when many people have a day off, the city centre of Geleen will be transformed into a festival area full of music, culture, history, and sensation.

Festivities on the Market Square: music, freedom, and connection

The festivities will start at 1:00 PM. At the Market Square, near the old town hall, you can enjoy a varied musical programme with performances by the See Sharp Big Band, Damien van Elburg, Luuk Bossers, DoeMeDieMaar, Stevie Iets, and the spectacular finale: the Wilhelmus Showband. A special moment will occur at around 1:45 PM, when the 'Freedom Fire' will be symbolically brought in by the Roparun team 'Blieve Loupe', which will bring the fire from Wageningen to Geleen. This fire will burn all day as a sign of remembrance and hope.

Singer-songwriter competition at the Kroonstage

In collaboration with Mama’s Pride, a special singer-songwriter competition will take place at the Kroonstage, located at Café De Kroon on Raadhuisstraat. Between the performances on the main stage, talented artists will showcase their skills here. The winner will get a coveted performance at Mama’s Pride 2025!

Immerse yourself in history and experience

In addition to music, there will also be time for reflection and education. Visit the exhibition “More than 750 years of The Netherlands” at the WERKatelier on Raadhuisstraat number 17, including a continuous film screening about the Liberation of Geleen. Opposite the studio, you will also find an impressive exhibition about the mining history of the former Maurits State Mine.

For young and old: children's activities, military vehicles, and food trucks

For the youngest visitors, there are various children's activities, including Brickmasters: you can build their own monument of freedom and have a chance to win a fun prize! On the walking route between the Market and Raadhuisstraat, you will encounter military vehicles, food trucks, and a cozy outdoor bar for snacks and drinks.

Come to Geleen on May 5 and celebrate freedom!