66th Anniversary of Normandy Landings

Join locals and veterans as they mark the 66th anniversary of the June 6, 1944 Normandy Landings with ceremonies and other commemorative events. Normandy’s D-Day commemorations will be held on Normandy’s famous landing beaches, at memorials and in towns throughout the region.

Bayeux-Bessin was the scene of the most massive military operation in history it was the first town to be liberated by the British on D-Day. Each year Bayeux-Bessin commemorates the historic Normandy invasion with a D-Day Festival and following is their program of events.

Saturday June 5, 2010

14:00 – Sainte-Mere Elise – “Parachute landings on the marshland of La Fière”
The landing of parachutes on the marshland of la Fière is a major annual event. This year, it will bring together about 300 parachutists from America, Britain, Germany and France.

19:30 – Omaha Beach and Isigny-sur-Mer – “Giant Normandy-Day Picnics”
- At Saint-Laurent-sur-Mer (Omaha Beach): picnic and free concert preceded by a parade of military vehicles
- At Isigny-sur-Mer (Town Hall square) : picnic and free concert

21:00 – Arromanches – “The decision that saved the world”
A historical play recounting the meeting in 1941 of Winston Churchill (British Prime Minister) and Rudolf Hess (Hitler’s deputy) in the Town Hall.

23:00 – Longues-sur-Mer – “The night they arrived”
A musical fireworks display – symbolizing the arrival of Allied Forces- which takes place on the site of the German Battery of Longues-sur-Mer (listed monument). Shuttle bus service from Bayeux (1€ return).

Sunday June 6, 2010

08:30 – Asnelles to Port-en-Bessin – “In the footsteps of the 47th British Commando”
A popular 21 km walk retracing the footsteps of the soldiers who liberated Port-en-Bessin, the first petroleum harbour. Picnic at Longues-sur-Mer and free concert. Bring along your picnic and walking shoes. Departure from breach car park and free bus service on return journey.

09:30 – 18:00 – Tilly-sur-Seulles – “Battle of Normandy Bookfair”
The second edition of this book fair brings together editors, authors, booksellers, historians and veterans around one theme: the D-Day Landings and the Battle of Normandy.

19:00 – Bayeux (Place de Gaulle) – “Liberation Ball”
The first town liberated in France celebrates Freedom with a festive picnic (bring your own or purchase on site), a concert and a ball on the Place de Gaulle.

22:00 – Arromanches – “Concert of Fiona Harisson and fireworks”
A repertoire of 1945-50′s music (Place du 6 Juin), followed by a musical fireworks display.

According to Normandy Tourism 2010 will be remembered for being the final year British veterans make the trip across the Channel to participate in the D-Day commemorations so British nationals intending to witness the Normandy commemorations, this is the year to consider making the trip.

Mémorial de Caen – A Museum Dedicated to Peace
Pointe du Hoc – A Tale of Incredible Bravery
Normandy American Cemetery and Memorial
See Normandy beaches, American Cemetery and Pointe du Hoc Photos here

Did I leave anything out?