On May 4 and 5, we will reflect on the value of freedom in Gouda. On May 4, we will commemorate all Dutch war victims since the outbreak of World War II, including the victims of the colonial war in Indonesia. On May 5, we will celebrate 80 years of freedom since the liberation in 1945. Here is the program in Gouda:
Program for May 4 – Remembrance:
2:15 – 4:45 p.m.
Visit to seven war graves
A floral arrangement will be placed at each grave. Meet at 2:15 p.m. at the Catholic Cemetery (start at 2:30 p.m.), then proceed to the IJsselhof Cemetery, the Old Cemetery on Vorstmanstraat, and finally the Toon Pille monument in front of the City Hall.
6:45 PM
Memorial service at St. John’s Church
Featuring contributions from Brigadier General Han Bouwmeester, city poet Chris Bellekom, and others.
7:00 p.m.
Two meetings at the same time:
- Metaheerhuis – Commemoration of the Jewish residents of Gouda who were murdered during World War II
- Silent march – Departure from the Chocolate Factory (Klein Amerika) to the Market Square.
7:40 p.m.
Memorial ceremony on the Markt
Featuring music, two minutes of silence, a wreath-laying ceremony, and a speech by Mayor Pieter Verhoeve.
9:00 p.m.
Two evening programs:
- Performance at the Goudse Schouwburg: The Day the World Got Smaller, about Edith, a girl from Gouda.
- St. John's Church: Brahms' Requiem performed by Collegium Sint-Jan.
