Liberation festivals in trouble, Utrecht bails out
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Loading... - Naas Brynjar
- 12 May 2023
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The organizers of the annual Bevrijdingsfestivals, which celebrate the liberation of the Netherlands on May 5, 1945, are currently seeking partners to help cover rising costs and inflation. Unfortunately, this year marks the first time in 30 years that the festival in Utrecht has been canceled. These festivals are organized by independent organizations under the guidance of the Comité 4 en 5 Mei, which coordinates activities surrounding Remembrance and Liberation Day. The festivals are financed through government funding, but the organizers have stated that there is no additional funding available from the government. However, some festivals have had success appealing to local councils and provincial authorities for additional funding.
The organizers of the Utrecht festival were unable to balance their budget this year due to a 30% increase in costs, as well as poor weather that is expected to impact attendance. According to the AD, festival organizers and the Comité 4 en 5 Mei are currently seeking financial support from partners. To this end, they have launched a social media campaign under the slogan "Don't take freedom for granted, don't take the Bevrijdingsfestivals for granted."
In conclusion, the Bevrijdingsfestivals are an important part of the Netherlands' national heritage, celebrating its liberation from oppression. However, the rising costs of organizing these events, as well as the lack of additional funding from the government, are putting their future in jeopardy. It is essential that partners step forward to help support these festivals, ensuring that they can continue to honor the country's rich history for generations to come.
