The German War Cemetery in Ysselsteyn commemorates 80 years of remembrance, learning, and solidarity in October

YSSELSTEYN – In October 2026, the German War Cemetery in Ysselsteyn will celebrate its 80th anniversary. This is a special milestone for a place where the consequences of war are tangibly present and which, for eight decades, has invited visitors to reflect, remember, and engage in dialogue.

Eighty years after the cemetery was established, the significance of this place remains as relevant as ever. The German war cemetery is a place of remembrance, learning, and mutual exchange. The thousands of graves make the human consequences of war visible. Behind every grave lies a personal story, often set against the backdrop of a complex and profound history.

Especially at a time when war and international tensions are once again on the rise, the cemetery seeks to honor the lessons of the past. Its 80th anniversary is therefore an occasion not only to commemorate but also to look ahead: What can we learn from history, and what shared responsibility do we bear for peace, freedom, and reconciliation?

A Month Full of Activities

Throughout October, there will be a variety of activities for different audiences. Visitors can participate in themed tours, lectures, educational programs, and musical activities.

The personal stories behind the graves and the history of the cemetery will also take center stage.

Young people play an important role in the anniversary program. On October 1 and 2, a debate on freedom will be held for students from Belgium, Germany, and the Netherlands. This will provide an opportunity for discussion about freedom, responsibility, and the lessons that can be learned from the past.

Music and Personal Stories

On October 16, 17, and 18, Nard Reijnders will once again present his program “Het verhaal van mijn vader (The Story of My Father)”. Through words and music, he tells his father’s personal story, weaving together memories, the war, and the way in which past events affect subsequent generations.

The combination of music, personal stories, and the atmosphere of the cemetery ensures that history is experienced not merely as a collection of facts, but also as something human and personal. Tickets for this Dutch-language performance can be ordered here.

Guided Tours of the Cemetery

Free themed guided tours are offered on various Saturdays and Sundays in October. During these tours, visitors gain a deeper insight into the history of the German war cemetery, the stories of the people buried here, and the cemetery’s significance today.

The Dutch-language tours will take place on October 3, 11, 17, and 25 at 1:30 p.m. Registration via email at info@joc-ysselsteyn.com is recommended.

Remembering with an Eye Toward the Future

With the program marking the 80th anniversary of the German war cemetery, the organization aims to reach a broad audience—from students and international visitors to local residents and people visiting the cemetery for the first time.

The anniversary is thus, above all, an invitation to reflect on what war does to people and societies and why it remains important to pass on these stories. Remembrance is more than just looking back; it also means taking responsibility for the future!

October 2026 Program