Decorate to Liberate

Residents, schools, businesses, retailers and hospitality outlets are invited to ‘Decorate to Liberate’ for the 80th anniversary of Liberation Day.

The Committee for Education, Sport & Culture is once again encouraging the whole island to get involved in celebrations by adding festive flair to homes, shops, streets and offices.

This annual and much-beloved initiative started in 2020, when the 75th anniversary commemorations and celebrations had to be cancelled due to Covid and islanders instead demonstrated community spirit through vibrant decorations including traditional bunting.

For this year, islanders are asked to decorate their homes, storefronts, vehicles and community spaces with any form of decoration in the lead up to Friday 9 May. There is a template for bunting in the ‘Get Involved’ section of the Liberation Day website. Bunting flags can also be made from recycled materials for a more sustainable option.

Deputy Sue Aldwell, Committee for Education, Sport & Culture, said:

‘Over previous years islanders have hung Guernsey flags, bunting and themed décor in the run up to Liberation Day, which looked amazing and brought a sense of celebration across island. This year, we encourage everyone to think outside of the box, get creative, and perhaps plan community art, floral arrangements, or dress-up days. We hope to see as many people as possible get involved for Liberation Day - even a small gesture like putting an 80th sign in a window will have a big impact.

‘2025 marks such a significant milestone for those who lived in Guernsey through the Occupation, or those who were evacuated or deported. Decorations across the island mean that those unable to join a parish event or the large-scale celebrations can still appreciate the festivities in the lead up to the 9 May, as well as on the day itself.

‘To make it as easy as possible, we have included a template for bunting in the ‘Get Involved’ section of the Liberation Day website. All you need are scissors, glue, tape and some Liberation spirit!’

Islanders are encouraged to share their decoration efforts using the hashtag #DecorateToLiberate on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.