Liberation Festival and 8-Day Fair Coming to Groningen Again After Being Cancelled Last Year
Liberation Festival and 8-Day Fair Coming to Groningen Again After Being Cancelled Last Year
Groningen's celebration of history and culture with the 8-day fair and 4-day festival for Liberation day, from August 21-28th
Groningen's Liberation Day marks the city's victory over the Bishop of Münster, known as Bommen Berend, in 1672. This event was crucial in Dutch history, as the successful defense of Groningen helped protect the Dutch Republic from invasion. If Groningen had fallen, the region might have become a German-speaking Catholic area. This year, the celebrations include the return of the traditional eight-day fair, which was canceled last year due to renovations at Grote Markt.
The festivities start on August 25 with a memorial service at the Martinikerk, honoring those who died during the siege. The following days feature a lecture by historian Jochem Abbes, performances by the Noord Nederlands Orkest, and the Bommen Berend Youth Theater. On August 28, the actual day of Groningen’s liberation, there will be a range of activities, including re-enactments, public lectures at the University of Groningen, and the Groote Maaltijd at De Akerk. The day ends with a fireworks display over the Zuiderhaven.
For those new to Groningen or unfamiliar with its history, the University of Groningen will hold educational events on August 26, including flash lectures and a pop-up exhibition, offering insights into the significance of the city’s liberation. Throughout the festival, Vismarkt and other locations around the city will transform into lively party zones with music, dancing, and performances by top Dutch artists, culminating in the Radio NL Summer Tour on August 28.
This year’s program offers something for everyone, from historical reenactments and lectures to music and fireworks, making it a rich celebration of Groningen’s resilience and cultural heritage. Most activities are free, though some require registration. For a detailed schedule and to sign up for events, visit the official festival website.