Liberation 80

In Jersey, Liberation Day (Jèrriais: Jour d'la Libéthâtion) is celebrated each year on 9 May, to mark the end of the Nazi German Occupation during the Second World War. It is celebrated as Jersey's national day and 2025 marks 80 years of liberation.

The Channel Islands were the only part of the British Isles to be occupied during the War, and the conquest of them was viewed by the German occupying forces as a stepping-stone to the full invasion of the rest of Britain.

There continues to be a strong desire to keep the memory of Liberation Day alive – to remember those who were killed and those who survived, as well as to recognise the impact Occupation and Liberation has had on Jersey’s present-day community and identity. Importantly, Liberation Day also serves to remind us of our commitment to freedom, peace and inclusivity in our society.

Events & Experiences

• Traditional festivities | Join us for a historic celebration, where pride and remembrance take center stage. Liberation Square will be the setting for a special States Assembly ahead of a powerful reenactment of Force 135's historic arrival and stirring performances of "Beautiful Jersey" and the National Anthem will uplift hearts, accompanied by the resonant sounds of the Band of the Island of Jersey and La Ronde Concert Band. The ceremonial events culminate with a grand march and motorcade, paving the way for family festivities at Weighbridge Place. Enjoy vibrant local entertainment, delicious refreshments, and a joyful celebration of freedom and unity.

• Liberation Music Festival | To continue the festivities of the Liberation weekend, the Parish of St Helier will host a two-day music festival that will showcase local talent.

• The Liberation Games | Jersey Sport will coordinate the Liberation Games, aimed at building a community spirit around Liberation 80. The games will consist of a variety of sports and activities that will bring together parishes to compete in a series of friendly and accessible games.

• Jersey Week 5 – 9 | A Jersey-wide ‘open house’, encouraging organisations and businesses across the island to open their respective archives to show how both public and private organisations contribute to the Island, providing insight into the history, operation and position of each organisation in Jersey

• Parish parties and activities | Each of the island's 12 parishes has declared that they will be holding different parties and events during the Liberation weekend. Understandably, Connétables will want to conduct their own events to ensure parishioners can also celebrate together away from the larger ‘national’ activities.

• Jersey diaspora | For Jersey people in other countries wishing to take part in the Liberation celebrations, there will be a limited number of celebration packs made available to enable the decoration and theming of parties to be held in other jurisdictions with Jersey and Union flag bunting etc.

More details on the momentous occasion will be released closer to the event.