May is Dutch Heritage Month in Ontario! Here is what we do to celebrate it! 

This Dutch Heritage Month is extra significant in 2025, because of the 80th anniversary of the liberation of the Netherlands. To celebrate these 80 years of freedom and to express our gratitude for the key role Canadians played in the liberation, the Consulate General of the Netherlands is (co) organizing several events in the coming weeks. I hope to see you there!

Toronto Tulip Day – the not so little brother of the Tulip Festival in Ottawa!

What: Come and pick your own (free!) bouquet of Dutch tulips

Why: A Thank You to Toronto, Ontario and Canada for liberating us 80 years ago!

When: May 10th, 10:00am-5:00pm (or until tulips last)

Where: Nathan Phillips Square in Toronto - a sea of 40,000 tulips!  

 

80 years of Freedom: a Dutch Tribute to Canada exhibition

What: A blend of photo-sculpture, wartime testimonies, and public art installations

Why: This exhibition is not just a look back at history, it is a reflection on the values we continue to share: freedom, gratitude, and courage.

When: May 12-14 (Liberation Reception and Grand Opening on May 12th by invitation only). Holland House organizes a special program on May 14th, see detailed information here 80 Years of Freedom ~ An Event of Reflection and Gratitude

Where: Small Arms and Inspection Building, Mississauga

More information: www.80yearsoffreedom.com

 

Flag Raising Ceremony at Queen’s Park 

What: Raising of the Dutch Flag, with speakers from the legislative assembly, the Consul General, the Defense Attache of the Netherlands Embassy and WWII veterans. 

Why: An annual ceremony to mark Dutch Heritage Month in Ontario, this year with special attention for the 80th anniversary of the liberation of the Netherlands. 

When: May 15th, 12:15-12:55 PM 

Where: Legislative Building South Lawn, Toronto. The event is open to the public, but seating is limited. 

Orchestra of the Royal Netherlands Air Force: "It’s All About Freedom Concert"

What: The Orchestra of the Royal Netherlands Air Force will perform in Toronto as part of their "It's All About Freedom" tour across Canada

Why: Commemorating the 80th anniversary of the Netherlands' liberation during the Second World War.

When: May 15th, 8:00 PM - 9:30 PM

Where: The Chrysalis Theatre, 43 Gerrard Street E, downtown Toronto 

 This concert is free of charge, but seats are limited. Registration link: https://lnkd.in/gHNxkJYp .

Special recognition goes out to former deputy premier of Ontario Elizabeth Witmer, who went out of her way to have her initiative for Dutch Heritage Month passed by the Ontario Legislative Assembly in 2011.

We hope to see you at any (or All) of the Events!