King’s Day

King’s Day (Koningsdag) is a national holiday of the Netherlands celebrated on April 27 each year. It is a day to honor the birthday of the King of the Netherlands and celebrate Dutch culture and traditions.

The history of King’s Day dates back to 1885, when Princess Wilhelmina, the future Queen of the Netherlands, was born. Her birthday, August 31, was celebrated as a national holiday until her daughter, Queen Beatrix, ascended the throne in 1980. Queen Beatrix’s birthday fell on January 31, in the middle of winter, so she decided to change the holiday to her mother’s birthday, April 30.

The current King of the Netherlands, Willem-Alexander, was born on April 27 and, when he ascended to the throne in 2013, he decided to keep the holiday on that day in honor of his own birthday.

On King’s Day, the whole country is dyed orange, people dress in the national color and take to the streets to participate in various festivities. The celebrations usually begin on the eve with King’s Night (Koningsnacht), which is a big party night with concerts, flea markets and fireworks. From here we recommend spending Konigsnacht in The Hague where there are several live performances around the city center.

During Koningsdag there are music concerts in all neighborhoods. It is also traditional to wear an orange garment, which represents the national color and symbolizes unity and pride in being Dutch.

One of the most popular King’s Day activities is the vrijmarkt, which translates as free market. During the vrijmarkt, people set up stalls and sell their unwanted items on the street. It’s a fun way to earn some extra cash and get rid of old stuff while enjoying the festive atmosphere.

King’s Day is a day full of joy, music and togetherness, and is a celebration that brings the Dutch closer together.