May 09

Every May 9, the islands of Guernsey and Jersey celebrate Liberation Day, marking the end of German military rule that began in 1940. Festivities include parades, memorial services, and community gatherings honoring the resilience of residents under occupation. In Alderney, May 9 is observed as National Day with local events and cultural performances. These commemorations reflect on the hardships endured and pay tribute to Allied forces and islanders who upheld hope and solidarity. The day fosters a spirit of remembrance and unity among the Channel Islands' communities.

Victory Day marks the formal surrender of Nazi Germany to the Allied forces on May 9, 1945, ending World War II in Europe. It remains a public holiday and is observed with military parades, wreath-laying ceremonies, and remembrance events across many former Soviet republics including Russia, Belarus, and Kyrgyzstan. In Azerbaijan, the day is also recognized to honor the victory and sacrifices of the war. Separately, Armenia observes May 9 as Victory and Peace Day, commemorating the capture of Shusha in 1992 during the First Nagorno-Karabakh War. Both observances blend historical reflection with national pride, paying homage to those who fought for peace and sovereignty.

Liberation Day on May 9 commemorates the end of the German occupation of the Channel Islands in 1945. After nearly five years under Nazi control, residents of Guernsey and Jersey celebrated their return to freedom and British rule. The holiday was first observed in the immediate aftermath of liberation, with parades, church services, and community gatherings. Today, it includes ceremonial flag-raising, military parades, and public festivities featuring music, historical reenactments, and remembrance services. Schoolchildren often participate in performances that recount wartime life and honor those who endured occupation. Monuments and memorials across the islands serve as focal points for reflection on sacrifice and resilience. Liberation Day also inspires cultural events highlighting Channel Island heritage and unity. For many families, the day is a poignant reminder of hardship overcome and the value of liberty. The annual celebration fosters a strong sense of community and gratitude for peace.

Victory and Peace Day is celebrated on May 9 in Armenia to honor the Soviet victory over Nazi Germany in 1945 and to commemorate the capture of Shusha in 1992 during the First Nagorno-Karabakh War. The day of victory in Europe was established as a public holiday, and Armenia later incorporated the more recent military triumph at Shusha into its observance. Official ceremonies at memorial monuments and military cemeteries pay tribute to soldiers who fought in both conflicts. Wreath-laying events, moments of silence, and patriotic concerts are held across Yerevan and other cities. Veteran associations and youth groups participate in parades showcasing military veterans and historical reenactments. Television and radio broadcasts feature documentaries and interviews with survivors and historians. The dual commemoration underscores themes of peace, resilience, and national pride. Schools often include educational programs about Armenia's wartime history and the significance of Shusha. The holiday fosters unity and reflection on the sacrifices made for the nation's security and sovereignty.