Spring has come, and the traditional Dutch holiday of ‘King’s Day’ is approaching! In fact, King’s Day 2025 falls on April 26th this year. If you’re unfamiliar with this famous Dutch celebration, don’t worry, you’re in the right place.
So, to make the most of it, here are some things you can do on King’s Day, to make most of the festive season.
April 26 is King’s Day (in 2025 only)
King’s Day Amsterdam 2025 celebrates the birthday of the monarch of the Royal House of the Netherlands, now King Willem-Alexander. His birthday is April 27, however, this year that date falls on a Sunday. Consequently, The Royal House of the Netherlands decided that whenever the monarch’s birthday falls on a Sunday, we make the public holiday the day before. Therefore, this year that day would be April 26 (Saturday).
Originally, the holiday began as Queen’s Day in 1891 to celebrate Queen Wilhelmina’s birthday on August 31. Later, Queen Juliana moved the date to her birthday on April 30. Eventually, Queen Beatrix decided to keep it on her mother’s birthday because of the better weather conditions. Now, King Willem-Alexander continues the tradition on his own birthday.
As a sign of unity and patriotism, people dress in orange as a tribute to the House of Orange-Nassau. Every year, the royal family visits a different town or city to see the local traditions. This year, for example, they will visit the city of Emmen in the province of Drenthe. Beyond the royal visit, King’s Day is a nationwide celebration packed with fun activities.
What to do on King’s Day?
King’s Day 2025 is a day of national pride, community spirit, and colourful festivities. Looking for things to do on this day? Here are some ideas you can explore:
Explore the street markets:
Some the best things about King’s Day 2025 are the street markets that pop up all over the country. Starting from the iconic “Vrijmarkt” in several major cities, to neighbourhood flea markets in smaller towns. Visit the festival to discover a treasure of second-hand goods, handmade crafts, and delicious snacks. It’s absolutely worth it!
Take the celebration to the water:
For a more fun and original celebration of King’s Day, you can join a canal cruise in cities such as Amsterdam, Utrecht, The Hague or Haarlem. Cruise along waterways decorated with festive ornaments, music, and people dressed in orange outfits. Toast the king with a glass of traditional Dutch orange liqueur. Enjoy panoramic views of the celebrations from the comfort of your boat.
Party like the Dutch:
Join the various festivities and live performances taking place throughout the country. Whether you’re in Amsterdam, The Hague, or anywhere else, King’s Day Netherlands is the perfect opportunity to celebrate Dutch culture.
From concerts to traditional folk dances and cultural performances, there’s no shortage of entertainment options to enjoy. Take note because the biggest festivities in The Hague are the night before, “Koningsnacht”, on the 25th.
Don’t miss out the exciting music festival “The Life I Live”, where the celebration starts early. Enjoy the festive ambient, dance to live music, and connect with locals and expats as you celebrate the king’s birthday.
Multi-lingual jobs in the Netherlands
And if you’re thinking beyond the party… We at Octagon are HR and recruitment partner to international companies in the Netherlands. Also, we are constantly on the lookout for skilled professionals. Are you looking for your next position in the Netherlands? Check out our vacancies.
