Thousands gathered along Guernsey’s seafront on Liberation Day evening to witness a historic spectacle in the skies: the island’s first-ever public drone light show. Created and delivered by leading UK drone display company FlightShows, the performance formed a centrepiece of the 80th anniversary celebrations marking Guernsey’s liberation from German occupation in 1945.
The 12-minute show, which used 150 synchronised drones, mesmerised crowds as it told a powerful visual story through light and movement. Iconic imagery lit up the night sky, including the outline of the island, the emotional departure of evacuees, a triumphant “V for Victory”, a soaring Spitfire, the word “FREEDOM” in bold letters, and the illuminated logo of Butterfield Bank, the event’s official sponsor.
The display was commissioned as part of the official Liberation 80 programme and marked a significant moment in Guernsey’s evolving approach to public celebrations, embracing new technology to connect heritage with the future.
The show was developed in close collaboration with local stakeholders and designed to resonate with both residents and visitors. FlightShows, which has delivered large-scale aerial storytelling events across the UK, said Guernsey provided a stunning and meaningful setting for their work.
“We’re incredibly honoured to have been part of such an important celebration,” said George Chatburn for FlightShows. “Designing a show that could capture the emotion, pride, and history of Liberation Day was a responsibility we didn’t take lightly. Seeing the crowd’s reaction as the word ‘FREEDOM’ lit up the sky was a moment we’ll never forget.”
Beyond its visual impact, the show was also an environmentally conscious alternative to fireworks—quieter, more precise, and capable of telling a story through light, shape, and motion.
Liberation Day 2025 included a full day of events, music, remembrance, and community gathering, culminating in the drone display that left a lasting impression on all who attended.
To see highlights from the drone show or learn more about the Liberation 80 programme, visit www.visitguernsey.com.
