Namen Lezen 2025
From January 22 through January 27, 2025, the fifth edition of Namen Lezen will take place in the former camp area of Westerbork. For six days and five nights consecutively, more than 100,000 names will be read aloud. The commemoration will begin on January 22, 2025, and end on January 27, 2025, exactly 80 years after the Auschwitz extermination camp was liberated.
During this commemoration, for six days and five nights, all the names of the more than 100,000 Jews, Sinti and Roma who became victims of the Holocaust will be read aloud. Fathers, mothers, grandparents, children, neighbors, friends – all people who were persecuted, deported and murdered because of their background or origin.
Each name is mentioned, along with the victim’s age. This way their memory is honored. The list of names includes not only people born in the Netherlands, but also Jewish refugees from Germany and Dutch people deported from Belgium and France. Those who tried to flee or go into hiding, but were eventually caught, are also remembered.
Watch Namen Lezen on livestream
Namen Lezen is a special experience. Visitors can attend Namen Lezen in a tent in the former camp area of Westerbork, and the commemoration can be followed via a livestream.
FAQ
How long does Namen Lezen ("Reading the Names") take?
The reading of the names will take approximately 140 hours.
The previous editions were called De 102,000 Namen Lezen (“Reading 102,000 Names") why is the 2025 edition called Namen Lezen?
For the 2025 edition, we chose to read the names of a broader group of victims, which increases the number to 103,124. This is why we changed the name of the commemoration.
When will my family member's name be read?
The names are read in alphabetical order. In this document you can search for names and see in which ten-minute period they will be read. To find specific names, use CTRL + F and enter full names.
What are the opening hours of the museum and former camp area during Namen Lezen?
The museum is open from Wednesday, January 22, beginning at 10 a.m., then day and night until 5 p.m. on January 27. During Namen Lezen, regular admissions apply. The former camp area is open to visitors day and night.
May I take photos and videos during Namen Lezen?
It is allowed to take photos and videos during Namen Lezen, as long as it does not disturb the readers and audience.