Record 160,000 join freedom meals across Netherlands on Liberation Day

An estimated 140,000 to 160,000 people took part in Freedom Meals across the Netherlands on Monday, setting a new national record. According to the National Committee for 4 and 5 May, a total of 1,200 Freedom Meals—known in Dutch as Vrijheidsmaaltijden—were organized throughout the country.

The Freedom Meals are intended to bring together people of all ages and backgrounds to talk about themes of freedom and oppression. Organizers said meals took place in more than 80 percent of Dutch municipalities, highlighting strong nationwide participation.

Each Freedom Meal includes a traditional “freedom soup” served to guests as a symbol of shared values and reflection. This year’s soup recipe was created by Jet van Nieuwkerk, a Dutch television presenter and food journalist known for promoting healthy cooking. Her recipe was served at all locations hosting the event.

King Willem-Alexander and Queen Máxima joined residents at a Freedom Meal held in the Morgenstond neighborhood of The Hague.