Celebrate King’s Day Like a Dutch

The entire Netherlands turns into an explosion of orange and tons of beer for an ultimate party every 27th of April. Have you seen that circulating on your social media? 

We’re referring to King’s Day, or as the Dutch call it, Koningsdag. This memorable occasion celebrates King Willem-Alexander’s birthday; where tradition and modern celebration blend seamlessly into a one-of-a-kind experience. 

Every bit of King’s Day is as wild and wonderful as it sounds.

The party gets an early start on King’s Night

The real festivities actually begin the night before the 27th, on King’s Night (Koningsnacht). Think of it as the pre-party to end all pre-parties. The Netherlands’ cities are more zestful than ever with concerts, DJ sets, and outdoor parties that continue late into the night. 

Get your groove on before the big. Amsterdam, Utrecht, and Rotterdam are hot spots, with large public events featuring everything from live music to international DJs. Amsterdam’s street parties are nevertheless legendary—neighbourhoods transform into open-air dance floors. 

Orange takes over

First things first: if you’re wondering why the whole country shifts orange, it's because of the Dutch royal family, the House of Orange-Nassau. Wearing orange isn’t a mere quirky tradition—it’s a significance of national pride. The head-to-toe orange outfits, wigs, face paint, and even orange drinks are all part of the fun! Slip into something orange and become part of it, don't just watch the spectacle!

Join the celebrations!

So, how do you truly experience King’s Day like a Dutch? The answer is simple: embrace one of the quirkiest and most beloved King’s Day traditions, vrijmarkt (Free Market). 

Dutch people love a good deal, and they take to the streets to sell their old treasures. This is the only day of the year that street sales are allowed without a permit or tax, and the result? Streets overflowing with stands selling everything from toys to trinkets. 

Shopping is as much about the social experience as it is about finding treasures. In Amsterdam, kids often sell their toys, creating a fun and spontaneous atmosphere. But don't worry if you’re not in the shopping mood—by the end of the day, much of the unsold goods end up left on the streets, adding to the charming chaos of it all.

Let’s not neglect the refreshments. Food plays a starring role in King’s Day celebrations, with street vendors serving up a mix of Dutch favourites. Stroopwafels are a must, but the real King’s Day treat is the tompouce—a pastry topped with orange icing, created just for the occasion. Alongside these sweet delights, you'll also find savoury snacks such as bitterballen (crispy meatballs) and fresh herring, perfect for nibbling while soaking up the festive atmosphere.

Beer, furthermore, is the crowd favourite—served in pop-up bars and terraces throughout the country. There are also plenty of orange-coloured drinks to keep you on theme, and for those who prefer something non-alcoholic, fresh juices are plentiful.

Best cities for King’s Day revelry

Several cities undoubtedly shine with their over-the-top festivities. Here’s a lowdown:

Amsterdam

The capital city is where the magic happens. Amsterdam is the epicentre of all orange and high-energy celebrations. Over a million people flood the streets, squares, and canals. The city’s canals fill with decorated boats hosting wild dance parties, while massive outdoor concerts take over spots like Museumplein. Vondelpark turns into a kid-friendly flea market, while the Jordaan district becomes a bustling hub of street performers and live music.

Rotterdam

A more contemporary approach to King’s Day is none other than Rotterdam. The city profoundly focuses on electronic music and large-scale festivals by maximising its sprawling open spaces for massive outdoor parties, like the Kingsland Festival, which attracts top DJs and thousands of revellers. Rotterdam’s sleek, modern architecture and vivacious nightlife make this special day livelier.

Utrecht

A more intimate, yet equally festive experience is found at Utrecht. Known for one of the country’s largest vrijmarkt markets, the streets and canals of this charming city are filled with locals selling everything from second-hand goods to handmade crafts. Utrecht’s King’s Night is also a treat, with outdoor concerts and parties lighting up the city, all set against its picturesque backdrop.

Pro tips for visiting King’s Day

Doesn’t the fun sound enticing? A little preparation and planning can go a long way…

• Arrive early: Popular spots like Vondelpark and canal-side locations fill up quickly. Arriving early ensures you’ll grab a prime spot.

   

• Book early: Accommodation, especially in Amsterdam, fills up fast. Book months in advance to secure a spot and avoid the high prices or limited availability.

   

• Cash is king: While many places accept cards, smaller vendors at the vrijmarkt often prefer cash, and ATMs can run dry on King’s Day. Bring enough to last the day.

   

• Dress for the weather: Dutch weather in April is famously unpredictable—bring layers and a waterproof jacket to stay comfy throughout the day.

   

• Explore smaller cities: The crowds in Amsterdam can get a bit much, hence, smaller cities such as Haarlem, Leiden, or Delft offer just as much festive fun with fewer crowds.

   

• Power up: Between taking photos and sharing your King’s Day experiences, your phone will need a charge. A portable power bank is your friend.

   

• Public transport changes: Expect disruptions to public transport as many areas, especially in Amsterdam, become pedestrian-only. Walking or biking is your best bet to get around.