On the 4th of May the Dutch National Rememberance Day (Nationale Dodenherdenking) is held. On this day, the Netherlands commemorates the fallen soldiers of World War II and those that died in other military conflicts and peacekeeping operations.
In Amsterdam the remembrance finds place at Dam Square, where the royal family lays down a symbolic wreath.
On the 5th of May, the Netherlands and of course Amsterdam celebrates Liberation Day, and many free open air festivals are organized.
The so called Liberation Festival (Bevrijdingsfestival) intents to teach young people to appreciate the freedom and democratic society in which we live. Which we might take for granted sometimes.
Amsterdam has 3 main stages for the event on 5th of May; on Dam square, on Nesplein and Beursplein (all in the city centre).
