The Channel Islands are celebrating a significant milestone as they mark the 80th Liberation Day on May 9, 2025. This anniversary commemorates the end of five long years of German occupation during World War Two. The day is filled with parades, parties, and poignant memories as islanders come together to honor their past and celebrate their freedom.
The festivities began with a Liberation Day breakfast in Jersey, where locals gathered to share in the significance of the day. At 09:00, a two-minute silence was observed in Guernsey, allowing participants to reflect on the hardships endured during the occupation. Following this solemn moment, a 21-gun salute was fired from Castle Cornet, marking the occasion with a traditional display of respect and remembrance.
The Princess Royal, Princess Anne, arrived on the islands to participate in the celebrations. She was welcomed by Lieutenant Governor Lt-General Richard Cripwell and Bailiff Sir Richard McMahon. After inspecting the military parade featuring hundreds of armed forces personnel, Princess Anne addressed the crowd. “I’m delighted to return to Guernsey, and thank you for inviting me to join you as you celebrate Liberation Day and remember those who lived through occupation or deportation,” she said. Her presence added a royal touch to the day’s events.
As the celebrations continued, Princess Anne made her way along the seafront before attending a church service at Town Church. The day was not just about remembrance but also about joy, with a packed program of music, dancing, and entertainment scheduled throughout the afternoon at the Weighbridge in Jersey.
Occupation survivors were among the large crowd gathered in and around Liberation Square for the annual re-enactment of the day Jersey was liberated in 1945. The atmosphere was electric, filled with laughter, music, and a sense of community. Many attendees donned Union Jack flags in various forms, showcasing their pride and connection to the historic event.
Among those present was Pamela Gallican, who was just a child when the occupation began. She attended events in Jersey, sharing her memories and experiences with younger generations. Her presence served as a reminder of the resilience and strength of those who lived through the dark days of the occupation.
The Channel Islands were unique in their experience during World War Two, being the only part of the British Isles occupied by German forces. From 1940 to 1945, the Germans set up concentration camps on British soil and transformed the islands into what Adolf Hitler called an "impregnable fortress." This period was marked by immense suffering, with hundreds of islanders deported to German prisons and those who remained facing starvation.
On May 9, 1945, after five years of Nazi rule, Jersey and Guernsey were liberated, with Sark following suit the next day. The liberation marked a new beginning for the islands, and the memories of those who endured the occupation are preserved through events like Liberation Day. Most inhabitants of Alderney, who had been forced to leave, could not safely return until December 15, 1945, a date now commemorated as Homecoming Day.
The celebrations on May 9, 2025, serve not only as a remembrance of the past but also as a celebration of freedom and resilience. The day is filled with events that honor those who suffered and fought for their liberty. As the sun set on the festivities, the excitement continued with a cavalcade and a first-ever drone show lighting up the night sky.
Throughout the day, islanders and visitors alike shared stories, laughter, and a sense of unity. The memory of Liberation Day is not just about the past; it is a testament to the enduring spirit of the Channel Islands. As they gathered to celebrate, the community reflected on their history while looking forward to a future of peace and prosperity.
In the evening, as the events came to a close, many participants expressed gratitude for the opportunity to remember and celebrate their liberation. The day was a powerful reminder of the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity. The Channel Islands, having faced the trials of occupation, emerged stronger and more united than ever.
As the 80th Liberation Day concluded, it became clear that the legacy of those who fought for freedom would continue to inspire future generations. The stories of survival, bravery, and community are ingrained in the fabric of the islands, ensuring that the lessons of the past are never forgotten.
