Business community urged to support Liberation Day

Businesses are being urged to support Guernsey's 2026 Liberation Day as the event "carries deep personal meaning".

The event on 9 May will commemorate the liberation of the island on the same day in 1945, from Nazi Germany's occupation in World War Two.

Helen Glencross MBE, head of culture and heritage services said sponsorship "plays a vital role in helping us honour the significance of the day".

States of Guernsey said the cavalcade, music stage and fireworks display was set to return for the 2026 event, as well as a tea tent and children's zone.

Glencross said organisers wanted to create "a truly special event… with a particular consideration for those among us who lived through the Occupation and for who this day carries deep personal meaning".

"We are extremely grateful to everyone who has already offered their support," she added, including for the creation of personalised hampers to be given to former evacuees.

The States said event and activity sponsorships were "vital" to boosting the variety of entertainment.

Deputy Andy Cameron, vice president and Liberation Day Lead for the committee for education, sport and culture said they aimed to deliver "a landmark community event".

He said volunteers were giving time to support the event and sponsorship was a means for businesses "to give back on a day of reflection and celebration of freedom".

"This strength demonstrates the strength of our island community, united 81 years after liberation from German Occupation," he added.

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