The LRE Foundation is delighted to announce that the LRE Forum 2026 will take place from 9 to 12 March across two historic cities — Arnhem and Nijmegen — in the Province of Gelderland. This 10th edition will give participants the chance to experience both cities, each deeply connected to Europe’s liberation history and to the ongoing work of remembrance and education.
The event is made possible thanks to the close collaboration with the municipalities of Arnhem and Nijmegen and the Province of Gelderland, who have confirmed their commitment and enthusiasm to welcome the event to their locations. This partnership reflects our shared mission to promote remembrance, education, and the preservation of Europe’s WWII heritage.
A Diverse and Inspiring Programme
The LRE Forum 2026 will offer a rich and engaging programme designed to foster dialogue, connection, and reflection within the fields of WWII heritage, remembrance tourism, and history education.
The Forum in Nijmegen will open with a City Walk, offering participants the opportunity to discover the history and heritage of the Netherlands’ oldest city. Nijmegen will also host the Welcome Cocktail for members of the LREF network and, for the first time, the Youth Forum — a two-day programme inviting young participants to reflect on WWII history, remembrance, and how lessons from the past can guide us in addressing today’s global challenges.
In Arnhem, participants will take part in the LRE Members Seminar, the Conference, the Gala Dinner, and the EXPO – key events that will bring together professionals, partners, and remembrance organisations from across Europe. These gatherings will provide a platform for sharing ideas, building partnerships, and discussing the future of remembrance and heritage tourism.
A Milestone Edition in the Heart of Gelderland
This 10th edition holds particular significance. Not only does it celebrate a decade of the LRE Forum, but it also brings the event for the first time to the Gelderland region, the birthplace of the Liberation Route Europe — the flagship project that laid the foundation for what is today the LRE Foundation.
Since its creation, the LRE Foundation has evolved into an international remembrance organisation, active in historical research, educational initiatives, and cross-border projects promoting the preservation and interpretation of Europe’s 20th-century history. Hosting the Forum in Arnhem and Nijmegen represents both a return to our roots and an opportunity to highlight the region’s central role in the stories of liberation and post-war reconstruction.
Save the date
We invite all members, partners, and stakeholders to mark their calendars for 9–12 March 2026 and start planning their journey to Gelderland, easily accessible by train or via Amsterdam and Eindhoven airports.
Registration will open in November, and we will also share a list of affiliated hotels in Arnhem offering special rates for Forum participants.
We look forward to welcoming you to Arnhem and Nijmegen in March 2026 for a memorable and inspiring 10th edition of the LRE Forum.
