80 Years of Freedom

In 2025, we commemorate 80 years of freedom in Noordwijk, Noordwijkerhout, and De Zilk. A significant moment to reflect on the liberation of the Netherlands and the impact of World War II on our coastal communities. Traces from that time are still visible in monuments, museums, and the stories of our residents.​

From wartime stories in Noordwijk to exhibitions, walking routes, and commemorations: during this anniversary year, you can experience how freedom was fought for, and how we pass it on to new generations. Be moved by personal memories, visit impressive locations like the Atlantikwall Museum and the Museum Engelandvaarders, and walk along places full of meaning.​

Discover how we in Noordwijk reflect on the past and celebrate the freedom of today.

80 Years of Freedom in Noordwijk

Atlantikwall Museum

The Atlantikwall Museum in Noordwijk offers a unique insight into 12 bunkers of the German defense system. Explore 500 meters of underground corridors and learn about life in the bunkers during the war.

Visit the museum

Museum Engelandvaarders

Housed in a former bunker, this museum tells the story of the "Engelandvaarders"—young men and women who fled occupied Holland during World War II to fight against Nazi Germany in England.

Visit the museum

Walk Along the Atlantikwall

This four-kilometer walking route takes you along the remnants of the Atlantikwall defense line in the dunes of Noordwijk—a silent witness to a turbulent past.

View the route

Calender

In 2025, Noordwijk commemorates 80 years of freedom in many meaningful ways, with impressive memorial ceremonies, inspiring theatre performances, and interactive activities for young and old. Below is a selection of events taking place in Noordwijk, Noordwijkerhout, and De Zilk:

May 4 – Remembrance Day (Dodenherdenking)

Commemoration at the war memorial | 19:00 – 20:30
📍Location: Noordwijk aan Zee
A solemn ceremony with wreath laying, music, and two minutes of silence in memory of the victims of war.

May 5 – Liberation Day (Bevrijdingsdag)

Freedom breakfast and flea market | 09:00 – 13:00
📍Location: Community centre Duin en Dal, Noordwijkerhout
Start your day with a shared breakfast and browse the friendly local flea market.

Freedom concert and picnic | 14:00 – 17:00
📍Location: Noordwijk town centre
Enjoy live music and take part in a community picnic to celebrate freedom.

All the events

"VRIJ in beeld" – Shop Window Exhibition

Until May 6
Students from the Art class and Visual Arts of Teylingen College Leeuwenhorst depict "Freedom" in various shop windows throughout Noordwijk.​

In Conversation with a Veteran

Friday, May 2
Meet regional veterans Mat & John—hear their moving stories

Virtual Tour of the Anne Frank House

Friday, May 2
Experience the Anne Frank House through a VR headset and immerse yourself in history.​

Fairy Tale Performance: Occupation and Freedom

Saturday, May 3
A children's performance for ages 5 to 10, addressing the theme of freedom in an accessible way.​

Children's Farm 't Schaapsherdertje Celebrates 80 Years of Liberation

Wednesday, May 14
With a wishing tree and sharing of "freedom soup," children can learn about the theme of freedom in a playful manner.​

World War II and Liberation in De Zilk

Wednesday, May 14
Open morning at Oud De Zilck, featuring local stories and discussions.​

All the events

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