Save the Date: LRE Forum 2026 Heads to Gelderland, 9–12 March 

We are thrilled to announce that the 10th edition of the LRE Forum will take place from 9 to 12 March 2026 in Gelderland, the Netherlands. Mark your calendars and get ready to join us in a region that is not only rich in Second World War history and heritage, but also holds a special place in our story. Gelderland is where the Liberation Route Europe project was born, and it continues to be a cornerstone of our network today. 

As our annual event, the LRE Forum brings together our members, partners, tourism stakeholders and heritage professionals from across Europe and beyond. It offers a unique platform to connect, collaborate and exchange insights, while exploring the latest developments in WWII remembrance, heritage governance, and cultural tourism. 

We are currently working closely with our local members and partners in Gelderland to finalise the programme and event venues. Bringing the Forum to this region is not only meaningful, but also a valuable opportunity to highlight its significant place in Europe’s shared memory. 

The LRE Forum 2026 will feature a rich multiday programme, with new workshops, exhibitions, and numerous opportunities to discover and engage with the many projects led by the LRE Foundation. Some key appointments will return, including: 

  • The LRE Member Seminar – A moment for our members and partners to come together, share best practices, and receive updates on the Foundation’s activities. 
  • The LRE Conference – An afternoon of thought-provoking discussions featuring speakers and experts from around the world on topics related to WWII history and remembrance. This year, we will explore the future of remembrance, looking ahead to what comes after 80 years from the end of the war. 
  • The LRE Gala – A special evening for our members to celebrate the work of our community, deepen connections, and enjoy a convivial moment together. 
  • The LREXPO – A dedicated networking space where museums, memorial sites, cities, and regions can connect with travel professionals. 
  • Site Visits – Guided tours to discover both iconic and lesser-known WWII-related sites across the region of Gelderland, with a particular focus on the local wartime experience and the unfolding of Operation Market Garden. 

A key milestone of this edition will be the official presentation of the LRE Foundation 2030 Strategy, a forward-looking roadmap that outlines our long-term vision, goals and priorities for the coming years.  
 
Whether you’re a returning participant or new to the LRE network, the Forum offers a unique chance to build connections, gain fresh perspectives, and shape the future of remembrance together. 

📍 LRE Forum 2026 
📅 9–12 March
📌 Gelderland, the Netherlands 

Stay tuned for more details coming soon. In the meantime, mark your calendar and get ready for this upcoming edition of the LRE Forum.