A must-see for World War II history enthusiasts!
Liberation Day, May 9th 2025 marked 80 years since the Channel Island’s liberation from German occupation. To mark the occasion there are a number of events showcasing islander life and their stories through concerts, exhibitions and more.
Though the weekend's events are now over, tours, galleries, self-guided walking trails and exhibits are still taking place throughout the year.
Occupation of the Channel Islands:
As the only part of the UK to be occupied during the war, members of the German military were brought to the island for respite and recovery in addition to holding this strategic position between Britain and France.
Daily life for islanders were forever changed: radio was outlawed cutting off connections with the mainland and France; fuel shortages increased the amount of horse-drawn traffic and bicycles became in such high demand that their use was restricted to essential services; traffic was forced to drive on the wrong side of the road; shopping hours were reduced as goods became increasingly scarce and islanders were replacing everyday foods like salt with seawater and numerous other tribulations.
Changes to island life can still be seen on the islands today. Tunnels were etched into the landscapes by slave labourers, centuries old castles were dismantled or altered to reinforce defences, towers and lookouts erected along the coast as part of the ‘Atlantic Wall’ and so much more.
The five-year occupation came to an end on 09 May 1945 – Liberation Day, an event still celebrated in the Channel Islands with an annual Bank Holiday.
World War heritage attractions and events:
Explore the residents’ stories from evacuation to liberation, with visits to the Jersey War Tunnels, Jersey Maritime Museum and the Occupation Tapestry or Guernsey’s La Vallette Underground Military Museum or German Naval Signals HQ. Embark on a Liberation coach tour of Guernsey or explore at your own pace with coastal rambles between forts, towers and bunkers.
Upcoming events:
The islands mark the occasion yearly with parades, reenactments, motorcades and street parties that bring history to life. Walk through streets with period vehicles, see a uniformed parade, enjoy live music and more. Looking to travel in 2026? Celebrate the 81st Anniversary of Liberation Day in the Channel Islands to be at the centre of the action!
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