King's Day, or Koningsdag, is a national holiday in the Netherlands that has become one of the most festive occasions of the year. On April 27th, the entire country takes to the streets to celebrate the birthday of King Willem-Alexander. For travelers, especially those from the U.S., this event offers an exciting look into Dutch culture. What sets King’s Day apart is not only its history but the way it blends tradition with modern celebrations, making it a unique experience for visitors.
Why orange is everywhere on King’s Day
One of the first things anyone notices on King’s Day is the sea of orange everywhere. This isn't just a random color—it’s tied to the Dutch royal family, the House of Orange-Nassau. Wearing orange is a long-standing tradition, symbolizing national pride. From clothing to wigs and face paint, participants go all out. If you’re planning to attend, dressing in orange is more than just a recommendation—it’s how you become part of the event. This simple gesture helps visitors connect with the festivities in a fun, visual way.
Interestingly, orange isn't a common color in everyday life in the Netherlands, which makes its sudden appearance on King’s Day all the more striking. Walking through cities like Amsterdam or Rotterdam on April 27th feels like stepping into a massive, orange-hued festival, where everyone is united in the same tradition.
King’s Night: The party starts early
Though King’s Day officially happens on April 27th, the celebrations kick off the evening before, known as King’s Night (Koningsnacht). Across the Netherlands, cities come alive with concerts, DJ sets, and outdoor parties. Locals and tourists gather for late-night parties that set the tone for the next day's events. Amsterdam, Utrecht, and Rotterdam are some of the most popular cities for these celebrations, with large public events featuring local and international DJs, live music, and food stalls.
Amsterdam’s King’s Night is especially famous for its street parties, where entire neighborhoods turn into open-air dance floors. Popular nightlife districts like Leidseplein and Rembrandtplein host official events, but you’ll find smaller, more spontaneous parties throughout the city as well. King’s Night is a chance to experience Dutch nightlife at its peak, and it offers a preview of the fun that continues the following day.
How to celebrate King’s Day like a local
King’s Day is marked by parades, street performances, and boat parties, but one of the biggest traditions is the vrijmarkt, or free market. The Dutch love to bargain, and King’s Day offers everyone a chance to sell or buy second-hand goods, turning city squares into massive flea markets. The vrijmarkt isn’t just about shopping—it’s a social event where people come together to explore treasures old and new.
If you happen to be in Amsterdam, you’ll notice that the canals become packed with boats, all filled with people celebrating. Cities like Utrecht and Haarlem have their own canal boat parties as well. For visitors, booking a spot on one of these boats in advance is highly recommended, as it offers a unique perspective of the celebration while floating along historic waterways.
The best cities to visit during King’s Day
King’s Day is celebrated throughout the Netherlands, but some cities have become iconic for their large-scale events and unique atmospheres. Here are the top cities where the festivities truly shine:
Amsterdam
Amsterdam is the heart of King’s Day celebrations. Over a million people flood the streets, squares, and canals to take part in the largest parties in the country. The city is known for its boat parades along the canals, with thousands of people floating by on decorated boats, dancing to music. On land, Museumplein hosts massive outdoor concerts, while Vondelpark transforms into a kid-friendly flea market. For a more vibrant adult party scene, check out the Jordaan area, which fills up with street performers and live music.
Utrecht
Although smaller than Amsterdam, Utrecht offers a more intimate King’s Day experience. Famous for its vrijmarkt, the city hosts one of the largest flea markets in the country, stretching for miles along its streets and canals. Utrecht’s celebrations start on King’s Night, with open-air parties and concerts. The city’s historic charm, combined with energetic festivities, makes it a top choice for those looking for a lively yet less overwhelming King’s Day.
Rotterdam
Rotterdam takes a modern approach to King’s Day, with a focus on electronic music festivals and large-scale events. The city’s open spaces are perfect for hosting some of the largest outdoor parties, such as Kingsland Festival, which attracts top DJs and thousands of party-goers. Rotterdam’s modern architecture and energetic nightlife make it a great choice for those who want a more contemporary celebration.
Each city offers a different flavor of King’s Day, from the traditional markets and boat parades of Amsterdam to the modern festival scene in Rotterdam. Wherever you go, you’re sure to find a lively and welcoming atmosphere.
Food and drink: What to expect on King’s Day
Food plays a major role in the King’s Day experience. Street vendors set up stalls throughout the country, offering local snacks that are easy to grab while you’re enjoying the festivities. It's not often that the Dutch will choose any snack over their beloved stroopwafels but King's Day is one of those days. One of the most iconic treats during this day is the tompouce, a pastry traditionally topped with orange icing for the occasion. This dessert, along with local favorites like bitterballen and fresh herring, are readily available, offering a taste of the Netherlands while you walk through the crowded streets.
As for drinks, beer is the most common beverage of choice, especially in the larger cities where people spend the day outside at pop-up bars and outdoor terraces. You’ll also find plenty of orange-colored drinks to fit the theme of the day. For non-drinkers, fresh juices and non-alcoholic options are plentiful.
Practical tips for King's Day visitors
For those traveling to the Netherlands for King’s Day, planning ahead is crucial. Accommodation fills up quickly, especially in Amsterdam, so booking several months in advance is advisable. Transportation is another factor to consider. Many cities, particularly Amsterdam, close off their centers to cars, and public transport schedules change to accommodate the crowds. Walking or biking is often the best way to get around.
If you’re staying in Amsterdam, keep in mind that the city will be packed. Exploring smaller cities like Haarlem, Delft, or Leiden can offer a more relaxed experience while still providing plenty of festive activities.
Here are some more pro tips for travelers attending King's Day:
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Book accommodation early: Hotels and Airbnb spots in major cities like Amsterdam fill up fast, often months in advance. Secure your lodging as soon as possible to avoid high prices or a lack of options.
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Cash is king: While many places accept cards, smaller vendors at the vrijmarkt often prefer cash. ATMs can run out of money on King’s Day, so bring enough cash with you.
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Dress for the weather: Dutch weather in April can be unpredictable, ranging from warm and sunny to cool and rainy. Bring layers and a waterproof jacket to stay comfortable throughout the day.
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Public transportation changes: Expect major disruptions to public transport routes. Many areas will be pedestrian-only. Plan to walk or bike through the city for easy access to events.
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Arrive early: Popular spots like Vondelpark in Amsterdam and canal-side locations can get crowded. Arriving early ensures you can grab a good spot for markets or boat views.
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Portable power bank: With all-day celebrations and tons of photo opportunities, your phone battery will drain quickly. A power bank ensures you stay connected and capture all the memorable moments.
- Explore smaller cities: If the crowds in Amsterdam seem overwhelming, smaller cities like Haarlem, Leiden, or Delft offer a less intense but equally festive atmosphere.
So, should you visit King's Day?
As someone who grew up in the Netherlands and moved to the U.S. in 2019, King’s Day holds a special place in my heart. King’s Day in the Netherlands is a special experience, one that showcases the country’s traditions, pride, and love of celebration. Whether you’re enjoying the street markets, dancing on a canal boat, or simply soaking in the festive atmosphere, King’s Day offers something for everyone. For visitors from the U.S., this holiday provides a unique opportunity to step into Dutch culture and participate in a nationwide celebration that you won’t soon forget!
