Freedom Celebrations kick off in Plzeň

The traditional Freedom Celebrations in Plzeň, marking the liberation of the city by US troops at the end of World War II, kicked off on Friday with wreath-laying ceremonies at local WWII memorials and reenactment camps featuring period military vehicles and equipment. This is the second year in a row that no veterans are attending the festivities, as most of the American and Belgian veterans who liberated the city in May 1945 have already died or are too old and frail to make the trip. However, around 30 of their descendants are coming to Plzeň in their place.

The Freedom Celebrations will continue over the weekend with a historical, military and cultural program including outdoor gatherings, concerts, guided tours and exhibitions, and will culminate on May 6 with commemorative ceremonies at monuments to the soldiers.