Liberation Day is one of the most important days in Guernsey’s calendar and commemorates the islands’ freedom from the German Occupation during World War II. This years marks the 80th anniversary of Liberation of the Channel Islands.
Celebrated annually on 9th May in Guernsey and 10th May in Sark, the festivities provide an opportunity for islanders to remember the days of Occupation, which played such a monumental role in shaping both the landscape and the lives of the people of Guernsey.
The morning is one of commemoration with a military parade led by The Band of HM Royal Marines, Scotland and church service.
The parade will include contingents from the Princess of Wales Regiment, HMS Daring and ‘Guernsey’s Own’ 201 Squadron alongside the Chelsea Pensioners, Ghurkhas, local uniformed youth organisations and a contingent of local veterans.
The church service will be led by the Bishop of Salisbury at midday to an invited congregation. The service will be livestreamed for those who wish to watch the service.
In the afternoon there will be music and entertainment across the whole of the St Peter Port seafront to Castle Cornet.
A large cavalcade will arrive in St Peter Port from 14.30 led by pedestrians, bicycles and wheelchairs and will be followed by the military vehicles, vintage cars, tractors and community floats celebrating Guernsey’s history and community spirit.
The day will conclude with a drone show and fireworks.
Other organisations and the island parishes will also host events over the liberation weekend.
This year HRH Princess Anne will visit Guernsey on 9th May and Sark on the 10th May.
