Opening ceremony with veteran speeches
Guests hear stories and meet WWII veterans.
Freedom Festival
Slavnosti svobody
Plzeň, Czech Republic
May 1 - 6, 2026ConfirmedSource
Each May, the city of Plzeň remembers its liberation by the US Army in 1945, the first Czech city the Americans freed. A Convoy of Liberty rolls vintage military vehicles through town alongside reenactments and period music, in a heartfelt thank-you the city has held since 1990.
Key moments
Convoy of Liberty Parade
Spectators line streets to watch hundreds of vehicles and troops in period attire
Where it happens
Náměstí Republiky (Republic Square)
Plzeň, Czech Republic
Open in MapsHow to show up well
Plan the timing
Modest dress for memorials
Read the local rhythm
Stand respectfully during moments of remembrance
Respect local boundaries
Respect silence at memorial services; honor flags
Practical notes
Crowds & timing
Crowd level: high.
Tickets
Free events are available.
Reviewed mediaMAJOR HISTORY & CIVIC HERITAGE
Freedom Festival
Slavnosti svobody
Plzeň, Czech Republic
Each May, the city of Plzeň remembers its liberation by the US Army in 1945, the first Czech city the Americans freed. A Convoy of Liberty rolls vintage military vehicles through town alongside reenactments and period music, in a heartfelt thank-you the city has held since 1990.
AnchorCultural anchor
May 1 - 6, 2026Confirmed dates
Verified this year
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The story behind it
Pilsen was the first Czech city liberated by the US Army in WWII. Since 1990 the city has celebrated this with Slavnosti svobody. The festival honors veterans and builds international ties (many US and Belgian veterans attend). It is a defining event marking Pilsen’s role in liberation.
Key moments to know
Opening ceremony with veteran speeches
Guests hear stories and meet WWII veterans.
Convoy of Liberty Parade
Spectators line streets to watch hundreds of vehicles and troops in period attire
How to show up well
first-timer tips
Plan the timing
Modest dress for memorials
Read the local rhythm
Stand respectfully during moments of remembrance
Respect local boundaries
Respect silence at memorial services; honor flags
Photo with care
No flash
Essentials at a glance
Date window
May 1 - 6, 2026
Confirmed
City / Area
Plzeň
West Bohemia (Pilsen)
Cost
Free public events available
Good for
Families welcome
Very High visitor welcome
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