Liberation Day in Jersey is marking the island's freedom from German occupation at the end of World War II in 1945. It is Jersey's national day, commemorating the return of peace and the restoration of democracy after nearly five years under occupation. Liberation Day is both a celebration of freedom and a tribute to resilience and remembrance.

When is Liberation Day?

Liberation Day in Jersey is celebrated on May 9 every year.

The following is the list of Liberation Day from 2020 to 2049.

The History of Liberation Day?

During World War II, the Channel Islands (including Jersey, Guernsey, Alderney, and Sark) were the only British territories occupied by German forces. The German occupation began on July 1, 1940, after the British government decided the islands were indefensible and evacuated most military forces.

For nearly five years, islanders lived under strict German rule, facing curfews, food shortages, forced labor, censorship, and deportations. The occupation deeply affected everyday life, though many islanders maintained quiet resistance and hope for eventual liberation.

On May 8, 1945, Germany officially surrendered, marking Victory in Europe (VE) Day. The next morning, May 9, British liberation forces arrived in St. Helier Harbour, Jersey's capital. The Union Flag was raised again over the island, symbolizing the end of occupation and the return of freedom. The same day, Guernsey was also liberated; Alderney and Sark followed shortly after.

May 9 was declared Liberation Day, becoming Jersey's national day of celebration and remembrance. It replaced the traditional May Day festivities as the island's most significant public holiday.

Liberation Day honors both the joy of freedom and the endurance of those who lived through the occupation—including islanders who were deported, imprisoned, or separated from loved ones.