On April 16, 2025, the provinces of Groningen, Fryslân, Drenthe, and Overijssel will celebrate 80 years of freedom. These four provinces, together with the National Committee for 4 and 5 May, warmly invite you to join the celebration at the Akerk in Groningen. The liberation of the northern and eastern regions of the Netherlands took place between March 28 and June 11, 1945—a two-month period during which the Allied forces were supported by the resistance. This cultural event in the Akerk marks one of five key national moments commemorating 80 years of freedom. Cultural programs have been developed across the four provinces, focusing on stories of (un)freedom, resistance, and liberation. These stories, the meaning of freedom, and the importance of passing it on to future generations take center stage during this special evening. You can expect an inspiring program filled with theater, storytelling, film, and music. The evening will be hosted by radio and television presenter Mandy Woelkens.
Afternoon Program
On Wednesday, April 16, a limited number of seats are still available for the afternoon performance. If you are a resident of the province of Friesland, you may request a ticket by sending an email to 80jaarvrijheid@fryslan.frl, including your full name, email address, phone number, and whether you will be bringing a guest. As with the evening program, you may request up to two tickets: one for yourself and one for a young guest.
Please note: Requesting a ticket does not guarantee admission. You will receive further information from the Province of Friesland regarding your final reservation.
13:45
Reception
Dance and music: Welcome in the Akerk in Groningen, accompanied by dance and music
Exhibition: Opportunity to visit the exhibition “War Close to Home”
14:00
Start of the Afternoon Program
Cultural performances from the four provinces: Under the direction of Mandy Woelkens, the program includes theater, storytelling, film, music, and reflections on (un)freedom, resistance, and liberation.
15:15
End of Program
Evening program
As a resident of the provinces of Groningen, Drenthe, Fryslân, or Overijssel, you are welcome to attend the evening performance free of charge. Visit this registration page to reserve your tickets. You may request up to two tickets: one for yourself and one for a guest between the ages of 16 and 30. Freedom is something to be shared, and together we shape the world of tomorrow. That’s why each attendee is encouraged to invite a younger guest.
18:45
Reception
Dance and music: Welcome in the Akerk in Groningen, accompanied by dance and music
Exhibition: Opportunity to visit the exhibition “War Close to Home”
19:30
Start of the Evening Program
Cultural performances from the four provinces: Under the direction of Mandy Woelkens, the program includes theater, storytelling, film, music, and reflections on (un)freedom, resistance, and liberation.
20:45
End of Program
Organiser: Nationaal Comité 4 en 5 mei