Commemoration Events of the Battle of the Bulge

Introduction

Every December, towns across Belgium and Luxembourg pause to remember the Battle of the Bulge, the largest land battle fought by the U.S. Army during World War II. Commemorations bring together veterans, descendants, historians, reenactors, and visitors from around the world.

Whether you’re attending wreath-laying ceremonies, joining historical reenactments, or experiencing Bastogne’s lively Nuts Weekend, planning your trip around these dates adds unforgettable depth to your visit.

Bastogne’s “Nuts Weekend”

The highlight of annual commemorations is Nuts Weekend, held in Bastogne each December around the anniversary of the German demand for surrender — and General McAuliffe’s famous one-word reply: “Nuts!”

What to Expect

• Historical reenactments with soldiers in authentic uniforms
• Vintage military vehicles parading through Bastogne’s streets
• Wreath-laying ceremonies at the Mardasson Memorial and other sites
• Camps set up around town with WWII equipment displays
• The symbolic “throwing of the nuts” from Bastogne’s balcony — a cherished tradition for locals and visitors alike

Visitor Tips

• Hotels fill up quickly — book 6–12 months in advance.
• Dress warmly: events are held outdoors in the Ardennes winter.
• Arrive early for the parades and ceremonies to get good viewing spots.

Anniversary Years

Major anniversaries (70th, 75th, 80th, etc.) are marked with expanded international ceremonies, drawing heads of state, ambassadors, and large crowds.

Recent Example: 80th Anniversary (December 2024)

• U.S. and Belgian dignitaries joined at the Ardennes American Cemetery and Luxembourg American Cemetery.
• Special exhibits and extended hours at the Bastogne War Museum.
• Veteran-led tours organized through the Battle of the Bulge Association.

The next major milestone will be the 85th Anniversary in 2029, which will likely see expanded programming.

Other Annual & Local Events

Beyond Bastogne, smaller towns hold moving ceremonies each December:

• Clervaux, Luxembourg: candlelit services in the castle and at the Ardennes Offensive Museum.
• La Roche-en-Ardenne, Belgium: wreath-laying and torchlight marches.
• Diekirch, Luxembourg: special programming at the National Museum of Military History.
• Malmedy, Belgium: remembrance services honoring victims of the Malmedy massacre.

Many of these events are community-driven and provide a more intimate connection to the history than the larger Bastogne ceremonies.

How to Plan Your Visit

• Timing: Most commemorations occur the second and third weekends of December.
• Duration: Allocate at least 2–3 days if visiting during Nuts Weekend — traffic and crowds are significant.
• Booking: Secure accommodations in Bastogne or nearby towns months in advance.
• Guided Tours: Many operators align their tours with commemoration events, offering combined battlefield walks and ceremony access.

Practical Tips

• Weather: Expect snow or rain — layered clothing, gloves, and waterproof shoes are essential.
• Photography: These events are highly photogenic, with vintage vehicles, parades, and candlelight services.
• Respect: Remember these are solemn occasions as well as celebrations — observe silence during ceremonies.
• Family-Friendly: Many events welcome children and provide educational opportunities.

Conclusion

Visiting the Ardennes during commemoration season transforms a historical trip into a living, breathing memorial. By standing shoulder-to-shoulder with locals, veterans, and fellow travelers, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for the sacrifices made in the winter of 1944–45.

If you plan your trip in December, you’ll not only walk the battlefields but also join in ensuring the memory of the Battle of the Bulge is preserved for generations to come.