On 09 May 2025, Jersey will mark the 80th anniversary of Liberation Day – a momentous occasion honouring the day in 1945 when German forces surrendered, restoring freedom to the island after nearly five years of occupation during WWII.
Eighty years may have passed, but the echoes of liberation still resonate. It’s a time to reflect on the resilience of a community, the lives forever changed, and the island reborn from the shadows of the Occupation.
Alongside our cherished Liberation Day service of thanksgiving and reenactment, the island is gearing up for a spectacular celebration to mark this historic milestone. From vibrant parades to special events brimming with music, food, and festivity, Jersey is set to honour 80 years of freedom in unforgettable style.
Join in the festivities
Liberation Concert
Mark your calendars and come together for an unforgettable evening of music, remembrance, and celebration as we honor the 80th anniversary of Jersey’s Liberation. Jersey Festival Choir and Jersey Island Singers join forces to celebrate in style with music by Puccini, Faure, Vaughan-Williams, with music inspired by the Liberation by islanders.
May 03 2025
The Cavern Beatles | Liberation Special
In 1963 they visited Jersey for 4 legendary shows at Springfield Stadium on the 6th, 7th, 9th and 10th of August 1963. Over 60 years on, The Cavern Beatles, a band fully endorsed and licensed by the same club will be coming to The Drift with their remarkable show and to celebrate 80 years of the Liberation of Jersey.
May 08 2025
Liberation 80: A Weekend of Dance & Celebration
Liberation 80 promises to be a momentous occasion in Jersey, marking 80 years since the island's liberation from German occupation during WW2. As part of the celebrations, Dancing in Jersey will take centre stage, bringing the community together through music, movement, and shared history, from lively social dances to nostalgic performances.
May 08 2025 ‐ May 11 2025
Liberation International Music Festival
From 09 to 18 May, the 2025 Liberation Festival offers a feast of music with a theme of escape and reflecting joy through music commemorating the 80th anniversary of Jersey's liberation with an array of captivating musical events.
May 09 2025 ‐ May 18 2025
Liberation Day Concert – Liberation Orchestra
The Liberation Orchestra celebrate Liberation Day with a programme of classics, wartime songs and latin. The internationally acclaimed violinist Harriet Mackenzie takes you on a vibrant musical journey blending old and new with an exciting Latin American twist. Be knocked out by a new tango concerto and the Four Seasons of Buenos Aires.
May 09 2025
Special Liberation 80 Boat Tour
Join us for a one-of-a-kind Liberation Boat Tour and Cream Tea Special to commemorate the 80th Anniversary of Liberation Day. Take in the breathtaking scenery, indulge in a British cream tea, complete with freshly baked scones, clotted cream, jam, and a refreshing cup of tea. This will be sure to sell out fast, so get your tickets booked asap!
May 09 2025
Liberation Gala – Jersey Chamber Orchestra
A gala night of film music from the second world war in a “Last night of the Proms” style evening celebrating the 80th anniversary of the Liberation of Jersey. Stars include internationally renowned violinist Alexander Sitkovetsky performing Dvorak’s great violin concerto before Dambusters and the Great Escape.
May 10 2025
Liberation Chamber Concert
An extraordinary evening of chamber music with artists from the Lincoln Centre New York. International pianist Wu Qian and friends will perform Dvořák’s great Piano Quintet, Rachmaninov’s passionate Elegiac Piano Trio, and Beethoven’s elegant String Trio in G major.
May 13 2025
Liberation Music Festival
Jersey is keeping the Liberation celebrations going with a two-day music festival in the heart of St. Helier. This lively event will showcase the best of Jersey’s local talent, filling the weekend with incredible live music and a vibrant festival atmosphere.
The Liberation Games
Jersey Sport is bringing the island together with the Liberation Games, a celebration of community spirit. These friendly, accessible games will feature a variety of sports and activities, whether you’re a seasoned athlete or just looking for a bit of fun.
Jersey Week 5 – 9
Join us for Jersey Week from 5–9 May, a unique island-wide ‘open house’ inviting visitors to explore the hidden stories of Jersey’s public and private organisations. During this special week, businesses and institutions across the island will open their doors, showcasing their archives and offering exclusive insights into how they’ve shaped the island’s history, culture, and operations. It’s an incredible opportunity to discover the role these organisations play in Jersey’s past, present, and future. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or simply curious about the island’s inner workings, Jersey Week promises a fascinating and informative experience.
Parish parties and activities
Throughout the island, parishes are hosting their own parties and activities during the Liberation weekend, giving islanders the chance to celebrate together. These community-focused events will provide a more personal and festive atmosphere, allowing everyone to come together in their own unique way to mark this historic occasion.
Discover our wartime story
Discover Jersey’s Occupation story
The Channel Islands were the only British territories occupied by Nazis during WWII, with Jersey’s Occupation ending on the 09 May 1945. During this time, island life was shaped forever as islanders faced the unimaginable and endured one of the darkest chapters of Jersey’s history.
Our island’s landscape itself was transformed, marked by bunkers, tunnels and defensive walls that still stand as poignant reminders. Uncover the remarkable story of Jersey’s Occupation and discover how the island’s spirit prevailed.
Landmarks, museums & tours
Step back in time and experience Jersey’s WWII history firsthand. Explore iconic landmarks, venture into bunkers and tunnels, or embark on a guided tour to uncover the island’s remarkable past. Whether you’re walking through the Jersey War Tunnels, visiting the Channel Islands Military Museum, or joining a specialist-led tour, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of the island’s pivotal role during the Occupation. With expert guides and interactive exhibits, Jersey offers countless ways to connect with its wartime history and honour the resilience of its people.
