Ever wondered why the Netherlands transforms into a sea of orange every April? You’re not alone. Many travelers dream of experiencing Koningsdag, but feel overwhelmed by the crowds, customs, and where to begin.
But here’s the good news:
- You are the curious explorer, ready for a Dutch adventure.
- We are your guide to navigating this unforgettable day with ease.
With years of cultural insights and local tips, we’ll walk you through:
- The lively history behind the festival
- The best spots to celebrate like a local
- What to eat, wear, and how to join the party
Keep reading to unlock the magic of Koningsdag; and make this April 27, King’s day 2025 one to remember.
What is Koningsdag Festival?
Tom Morris
Koningsdag, or King’s Day, is the Netherlands’ most dynamic national celebration, held annually on April 27th in honor of King Willem-Alexander’s birthday. The entire country transforms into a sea of orange, symbolizing the Dutch royal family, the House of Orange.
Cities like Amsterdam, Rotterdam, and Utrecht come alive with street parties, music festivals, and flea markets where people sell everything from homemade crafts to second-hand goods. The festivities begin the night before with Koningsnacht (King’s Night), when bars and nightclubs host special events, keeping the party spirit alive until the early morning hours.
Beyond the parties, Koningsdag is also a day of tradition and community spirit. The royal family visits a different city each year, bringing national attention to local festivities. Families and children take part in fun fairs and traditional Dutch games like Spijker poepen (nail pooping) and Koekhappen (cake biting).
Meanwhile, the canals of Amsterdam become the heart of the celebration, packed with orange-clad revelers on boats. Whether enjoying a lively festival, exploring a vrijmarkt (flea market), or raising a glass of Oranjebitter, Koningsdag is a unique and unforgettable experience that showcases Dutch pride, unity, and love for celebration.
Koningsdag History
Koningsdag, originally known as Prinsessedag (Princess’s Day), was first celebrated in 1885 to honor the birthday of Princess Wilhelmina, the heir to the Dutch throne. After she became queen in 1890, the holiday was renamed Koninginnedag (Queen’s Day) and was officially celebrated for the first time on August 31, 1891.
Over the years, the tradition continued with each reigning queen, with the date later shifting to April 30 under Queen Juliana. The event developed into a nationwide celebration of Dutch culture and unity, with large street festivals and public gatherings.
In 2014, when Willem-Alexander became the first male Dutch monarch in over a century, the holiday was renamed Koningsdag (King’s Day) and moved to April 27, his birthday. Today, it remains the Netherlands’ most significant national celebration, bringing people together for parades, flea markets, and parties across the country.
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6 Ways the Dutch Celebrate in Orange Style
King’s Day (Koningsdag) is one of the most lively and beloved national holidays in the Netherlands, filled with pride, fun, and, most of all, orange! From honoring the Dutch royal family to street parties and festive snacks, the entire country comes together for a day of joyful celebration.
Every year on April 27th, locals and tourists alike explore the heart of Dutch tradition through music, markets, canal parades, and colorful outfits.
These six snapshots highlight how the Dutch celebrate Koningsdag with energy and enthusiasm. Whether it’s donning bright orange clothes, exploring flea markets, cruising on decorated canals, or tasting classic Dutch treats like tompouce and bitterballen, each part of the celebration adds to the magic of the day.
Let’s explore how this national holiday turns the Netherlands into a cheerful sea of orange and community spirit.
1. Why the Netherlands Turns Oranje on Koningsdag?
Every year on April 27th, the Netherlands turns orange to celebrate King’s Day (Koningsdag), honoring King Willem–Alexander’s birthday. This dynamic tradition is deeply rooted in the country’s royal history, as the Dutch monarchy belongs to the House of Orange-Nassau.
The color orange has long symbolized national unity and pride, dating back to William the Silent, who led the Dutch revolt against Spain. Today, wearing orange on King’s Day is a way for people to express their patriotism and participate in the festive atmosphere.
King’s Day is a national holiday filled with street parties, parades, and open-air markets known as “vrijmarkt,” where people sell second-hand goods. Major cities like Amsterdam, Utrecht, and The Hague host grand celebrations with music, boat parties, and family-friendly activities.
The event is often described as “oranjegekte” or “orange madness,” reflecting the country’s joyful energy. This annual celebration continues to unite the Dutch people, keeping their royal and cultural traditions alive in a modern and welcoming way.
2. How the Dutch Honor Their King on Koningsdag?
Koningsdag, or King’s Day, is a national holiday in the Netherlands, celebrated on April 27 to honor King Willem-Alexander’s birthday. The entire country turns orange, symbolizing the House of Orange-Nassau. People dress in orange outfits, decorate streets and homes, and enjoy lively celebrations.
The day is filled with music festivals, street parties, and flea markets, where citizens sell second-hand items without tax. Many Dutch people even start the celebrations on April 26, known as Koningsnacht, with festivities in bars and outdoor events.
A highlight of Koningsdag is the royal family’s visit to a different city each year, where they take part in local activities and games, broadcasted live on television. The holiday dates back to 1885, originally called Prinsessedag in honor of Princess Wilhelmina.
Over time, it turned into Queen’s Day and then King’s Day. Today, it remains one of the most anticipated events in the Netherlands, drawing both locals and tourists eager to experience the joyous atmosphere of this grand orange celebration.
3. Flea Markets Galore
On Koningsdag, flea markets take over the streets of Dutch cities, offering a lively and colorful shopping experience. Amsterdam, in particular, is home to some of the most famous markets, such as the Albert Cuyp Market and the Bloemenmarkt.
People set up stalls to sell second hand goods, handmade crafts, and unique finds, creating an atmosphere of excitement and discovery. Visitors can explore these markets while enjoying the festive energy of King’s Day celebrations.
To make the most of the flea market experience, it’s best to arrive early and bring both cash and cards, as different vendors have different payment preferences. Public transportation is the easiest way to direct the city, especially with crowds filling the streets.
Beyond just shopping, Koningsdag flea markets offer a look into Dutch culture, where community spirit and creativity shine. Whether searching for antiques, souvenirs, or artisanal products, these markets are a highlight of the celebrations.
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4. The Canals of Amsterdam on Koningsdag
On King’s Day, Amsterdam’s canals turn into a floating party as thousands of boats, covered in orange decorations, fill the waterways. People dance, sing, and celebrate on moving dance floors, creating a lively and unforgettable scene.
The entire city transforms into a sea of orange, with flags, garlands, and festive outfits adding to the excitement. Whether on land or water, the energy of the celebration is unmatched.
While the canals are packed with party boats, some cruise companies offer morning tours before the festivities take over. The event, known as “Oranjegekte” or “Orange Madness,” extends beyond the water with street parties, concerts, and the famous “vrijmarkt” flea market.
With King’s Night kicking off the celebrations the evening before, Amsterdam becomes one of the best places to experience this unique Dutch tradition.
5. Tasting Tompouce and Bitterballen on Koningsdag
On Koningsdag, Dutch food takes center stage with classic treats like tompouce and bitterballen. The tompouce, a delicate pastry with creamy custard filling and a signature orange icing, is a festive must-have that perfectly matches the celebratory spirit of the day.
Meanwhile, the crispy, deep-fried bitterballen, typically served with mustard, are a favorite delicious snack enjoyed while strolling through the lively street markets. These treats not only satisfy cravings but also add to the lively and joyful atmosphere of King’s Day.
Finding these traditional delights is easy, as food stalls, bakeries, and street vendors across the Netherlands offer them in abundance. Whether enjoying a sweet tompouce with a cup of coffee or savoring a plate of bitterballen with a cold Dutch beer, these flavors make the celebration even more special.
As the streets turn into a sea of orange, indulging in these Dutch classics is a delicious way to welcome the festive energy of the holiday.
6. What Do They Wear On Koningsdag?
On King’s Day (Koningsdag), the Netherlands turns into a sea of orange as people celebrate the royal family, the House of Orange-Nassau. Wearing orange is a long-standing tradition symbolizing national pride and unity. From bright orange shirts and dresses to hats, scarves, and face paint, everyone welcomes the color to take part in the festivities.
People also wear orange accessories like hats, wigs, feather boas, necklaces, and novelty glasses.
Orange Hair and Face Paint: Some people even dye their hair orange or paint their faces orange to fully follow the spirit of the holiday. Some even go all out with wigs, crowns, or full costumes, making the celebration even more lively.
Beyond Koningsdag outfit, the orange theme extends to decorations, food, and drinks, with streets, stalls, and even canal boats decked out in the national color. This tradition has deep historical roots, dating back to William of Orange, who played a crucial role in the country’s independence.
Today, wearing orange is more than just a fashion choice; it’s a way to show loyalty to the monarchy and fully soak in the joyful energy of King’s Day.
Koningsdag Festival: A Recap
Koningsdag is more than just the Dutch king’s birthday. It shows how proud and happy the people of the Netherlands are. It started long ago as Princess’s Day. Now it is a big party called King’s Day.
It is the most loved holiday in the country. People wear orange clothes and go outside to have fun. They join markets, play games, dance to music, and eat yummy snacks like tompouce and bitterballen. On the streets and in boats, everyone celebrates together. Koningsdag is a happy day full of joy and Dutch pride.