Tuesday 9th May 2023
After 5 long years of German Occupation during the Second World War, the Channel Islands finally regained their freedom. On the 9th May 1945, Guernsey men and women opened their windows wide, descended in the streets of St. Peter Port to breathe a common sight of relief and to start preparing for a brighter future. Seventy years on, the 9th May is still as strongly cherished by islanders whose collective memory of privations and hardships still echoes around the place. As half of the population was evacuated, including 4000 children, the other half endured hunger, poor medical attention and fear.
The celebrations on the 9th May are every year about not forgetting the past, thanking those who fought but also about the joy of freedom, plentifulness and family life. The day is therefore a very happy occasion with military band street parade, church services, period dancing and singing, a mini cavalcade, a Grand Prix, markets, fireworks and loads of entertainment for all generations to share.
2023 marks 78 year of Guernsey’s Liberation at the end of WWII and this year, we will be celebrating Liberation Day on Tuesday 9th May. Many events take place in St. Peter Port and around the island on Liberation Day, full details will be available nearer the time.
The Grange Lodge Hotel has been owned and operated by the Mansell Family since 1924 and offers a home away from home.
The Duke of Richmond is a 4 star hotel situated close to St. Peter Port town centre, featuring a large sun terrace, outdoor swimming pool and popular bar and restaurant.
The Best Western Moores Hotel is only a stone's throw from St. Peter Port harbour and sea front, providing guests with a perfect base from which to explore Guernsey.
La Collinette Self Catering offers guests a home away from home, close to St. Peter Port town centre and only a short drive from Guernsey's beaches and countryside.
Fantastically located in the centre of St. Peter Port, The Old Government House is the only establishment in Guernsey to offer 5 star luxury including extensive Spa facilities.
The German Occupation Museum in Guernsey is home to what is undoubtedly the finest collection of Second World War relics in the Channel Islands.