2025 is a special commemorative year, because we reflect on 80 years of freedom. Gelderland is the host province during this special year and Wageningen, City of Liberation, is the host city for the Start National Celebration of the Liberation on 5 May. The 5 May lecture, which takes place in a different province every year, will be added to the programme that is organised annually at this historic location. This means that the National Commemoration Capitulation 1945, the 5 May lecture and the Freedom Parade together form one programme. After the commemoration, a parade with (former) soldiers and vehicles, accompanied by music by other Pegasus Pipes & Drums, will pass through the city.

Following the parade, Prime Minister Dick Schoof will light the Liberation Fire on the main stage of Liberation Festival Gelderland. This officially opens the 14 Liberation Festivals throughout the country.