On Tuesday 1 July, we commemorate the abolition of slavery in Suriname and the Caribbean part of the Kingdom of the Netherlands. Several events in and around the Plantage offer opportunities to reflect, celebrate and come together.
National Commemoration β Oosterpark
π 2.00 β 3.30 pm
The annual National Commemoration takes place at the National Slavery Monument in Oosterpark. The ceremony honours the victims of slavery and reflects on the meaning of freedom. It will also be broadcast live by NOS.
CREA β Keti Koti
π From 10.00 am
CREA hosts a morning of conversations, music and a Keti Koti dialogue table. Afterwards, participants will join the Bigi Spikri Parade and walk together to Oosterpark for the National Commemoration.
Wereldmuseum Amsterdam
On Keti Koti, admission to Wereldmuseum Amsterdam is free. Visit the exhibitions and discover stories about the shared history of slavery and the many cultures that shape the Netherlands today.
Keti Koti Festival β Museumplein
π 1.00 β 11.00 pm
After the commemoration, the celebration continues at Museumplein with live music, dance, food and cultural performances during the annual Keti Koti Festival.
Free Heri Heri
On 30 June and 1 July, free portions of Heri Heri β a traditional Surinamese dish symbolising freedom and resilience β will be distributed at various locations across Amsterdam.
Keti Koti literally means “broken chains” and is an annual day of remembrance and celebration, honouring freedom, equality and our shared history.