Freedom Festival ‘Oude Dorp’

On May 5, the Oude Dorp transforms into a vibrant festival site where people of all ages celebrate freedom. The Bevrijdingsfestival 2026 Amstelveen offers a festive program including creative activities, inspiring talks, and live music with dancing for everyone.

Afternoon program

From 14:00, the Dorpsplein is full of creativity, fun, and community. DJ Appelmoes sets a cheerful atmosphere while children, parents, and grandparents enjoy:

• Apron painting at Museum JAN – create a unique keepsake
• Cakes for Freedom – baking contest with tasting at 15:30
• Wheelchair dancing – shows at 16:00 and 17:00
• Freedom lecture at Museum JAN – Teun Dominicus on ‘the free word’, starting at 16:30 with Q&A
• Swing and dance with Traffic Jazz and Big Time from 17:30 – 19:00, including food and drinks

Evening program

At 19:00, the Liberation Fire is brought in by AV Startbaan, with music from Slagwerkgroep Bovenkerk and members of De Schakel. Mayor Tjapko Poppens officially opens the evening program.

From 19:15 to 21:30, Big Band PeeWee’s Problem performs swingy hits with a powerful horn section and irresistible groove. Everyone, young and old, will be dancing.

Celebrate freedom

Put on your dancing shoes, bring your family, and celebrate freedom together. The festival is more than music: meet people, share stories, reflect on freedom, and enjoy creative workshops and live performances.