Various locations The Hague, Alkmaar, Bergen Nh, Den Helder, Egmond Aan Zee, Dordrecht, Groede, Hellevoetsluis, Hoek van Holland, Ijmuiden, Wassenaar
World War 2 bunkers are part of the landscape of the Dutch coast and steeped in history. On National Bunker Day the public is invited to discover the many bunkers along the coastline that are usually closed to the public. Bunker Day, on May 24, 2025, includes guided tours, re-enactments, theatre and poetry readings and is part of European Bunker Day, an initiative of Atlantikwall Europe (AWE).
Bunkerdag 2025: Venture inside bunkers, for one day only
The Atlantic Wall comprises giant structures that were built as coastal defences and fortifications and there are many remnants of the Second World War that can be found along the Atlantic coast, not just in the Netherlands, but also in Belgium, France, Germany and Denmark.
In the Netherlands, all the way from Zeeland in the south to Friesland in the north, the bunkers, which are normally not open to the public, will be accessible by everyone and anyone on Bunker Day 2025.
Open day bunkers at strategic locations in the Netherlands
Bunker Day occurs on May 24, a few weeks after Liberation Day, which is, in turn, preceded by Remembrance Day. The Netherlands commemorates the Second World War with solemn ceremonies on May 4 as a symbol of respect for all the Dutch who died in conflicts around the world. It continues the next day with large-scale free events such an open-air pop festival.
Additionally, every year on May 14, Rotterdam commemorates the 1940 aerial bombardment that destroyed most of the city. Typically, there are many events and gatherings taking place in the city centre.
A Bunker Day ticket is required to gain entry into the bunkers. There is no pre-sale, and tickets can be purchased on Bunker Day at all participating locations.