Third Annual Freedom Concert

Join us for an afternoon of music and spoken word at the Netherlands Carillon! Come together with friends and family to celebrate freedom through music while enjoying expansive views of the National Mall from the idyllic knoll in Arlington.

A Proud Symbol of Freedom

In recognition of the United States' support during and after World War II, the people of the Netherlands gave the carillon (bell tower) to the people of the United States in the 1950s. Today, the Netherlands Carillon stands in Arlington, Virginia, as a proud symbol of freedom, embodying the enduring bond between the Netherlands and the United States.

The musical monument serves as the centerpiece for the annual Freedom Concert, organized by the George Washington Memorial Parkway of the National Park Service and the Netherlands Embassy. This gathering offers a moment filled with music and the spoken word, allowing us to both celebrate and contemplate the multifaceted essence of freedom.

This year's concert aligns with the Netherlands' "Slavery Memorial Year." Together, we'll reflect on the history of slavery and celebrate its abolition. Listen to inspiring speeches and be captivated by mesmerizing musical performances.

• 4:00-4:45pm  |  Main Ceremony (Music & Speeches)
• 4:45-5:30pm  |  Carillon Recitals & Exhibit

Speakers for the event include:

• Mary Elliott, Curator of the National Museum of African American History and Culture
• Charles Cuvelier, Superintendent of the National Park Service (NPS-GWMP)
• Birgitta Tazelaar, Ambassador of the Kingdom of the Netherlands to the United States

The 53-bell carillon will be under the command of Julianne Vanden Wyngaard. Michael McKeon will sing the U.S. and Dutch national anthems, to be followed with a special performance by the Duke Ellington School of the Arts Show Choir.
 

Arriving & Attending

The Netherlands Carillon stands in Arlington Ridge Park near the Iwo Jima Memorial (United States Marine Corps War Memorial) and Arlington National Cemetery. Guests may arrive by car, although adjacent parking is limited. Public transportation is limited. The carillon is a 10- to 15-minute walk from either the Rosslyn or Arlington National Cemetery Metro stations.

This event is free to attend and open to all. The concert will be held outdoors, and you are welcome to sit, stand, or lay back and relax. We encourage you to bring a blanket or lawn chair so that you can sit close to the bell tower and enjoy the event.

A limited number of chairs will be provided for this event. If you require seating accommodation, please reach out to the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in advance by emailing: was-ppc@minbuza.nl

Cover image: Tulips rise beneath the Netherlands Carillon in Arlington, Virginia.