On May 4, 2025, the Netherlands commemorated the victims of war violence, marking a significant day of remembrance across the country. Various ceremonies took place, with the most notable being the traditional and alternative events held in The Hague and other locations.
At the Waalsdorpervlakte memorial, Goudse mayor Pieter Verhoeve spoke passionately about the importance of this day, stating, "For me, it is a Godswonder that there has been no war in the Netherlands for 80 years." His remarks resonated deeply, especially as he noted the proximity of conflict in Ukraine, reminding attendees that peace can be fragile.
Just before 8:00 PM, the atmosphere shifted as 10-year-old Wouter, the youngest trumpeter yet at the children’s memorial, performed the Taptoe from the lighthouse in Madurodam. This event drew significant attention, with thousands of children expected to participate in the tenth edition of the National Children's Memorial. The event, held at 7:15 PM, aimed to instill a sense of freedom and gratitude among the younger generation, with children reflecting on the sacrifices made by soldiers in the past.
At the Waalsdorpervlakte, a heavy bourdon bell tolled, marking the solemnity of the occasion. This site is historically significant as more than 250 resistance fighters were executed there during World War II. The procession to the memorial began at 6:00 PM, welcoming families and interested parties to pay their respects. As they walked the 3.5-kilometer route, many left flowers and wreaths at the monument, honoring those who fought for freedom.
In a notable departure from tradition, the Christian villages of Driebruggen and Waarder held their commemorations on a Sunday for the first time in 80 years. Typically, these events are moved to Saturday when May 4 falls on a Sunday, but this year, organizers felt it was essential to honor the victims on the actual date. Approximately 200 attendees gathered at the Dutch Reformed Church, a significant decrease from the usual 400 participants.
Meanwhile, the alternative Remembrance Day in The Hague attracted an unexpected crowd. Initially, organizers anticipated around 500 attendees, but estimates soared to between 3,000 and 4,000 people. This event, initiated by civil servants and former diplomats, served as a counterpoint to the National Remembrance Day on Dam Square in Amsterdam. The gathering focused on all victims of genocide, war, persecution, and oppression, particularly highlighting the ongoing conflict in Gaza.
Old politician Hedy d'Ancona was among the speakers at this alternative event. She shared a poignant tribute to her father, who perished in a concentration camp during the war. D'Ancona expressed her concerns about populist leadership, stating, "then and also now," and emphasized the need to connect historical events with contemporary issues. "Remembering and thinking, for me, they are inextricably linked," she asserted, urging the audience to reflect on the implications of past atrocities in light of current events.
At 8:00 PM, a moment of silence was observed across the country, including at the Malieveld, where the alternative commemoration took place. The gathering was peaceful, with many participants holding flowers in remembrance. Some attendees had brought their own flowers to lay at the foot of the stage, a gesture that underscored the collective grief and solidarity present at the event.
In the lead-up to May 4, several articles highlighted unique aspects of World War II history, including the emergence of rare photographs depicting the German retreat in May 1945. These stories served to remind the public of the war's enduring impact on Dutch society.
As part of the national tradition, residents across the country were called upon to fly flags at half-mast from sunrise to sunset on this day of remembrance. Rijkswaterstaat, the Dutch road authority, has been using electronic signs since 2008 to remind drivers to observe safe commemoration practices, emphasizing the importance of honoring the past responsibly.
Overall, the events of May 4, 2025, reflected a deep commitment to remembering the sacrifices made during wartime while also confronting the realities of ongoing conflicts today. The blending of traditional remembrance with contemporary issues highlighted the need for ongoing dialogue about peace and justice in a world still grappling with the consequences of war.
