In the Netherlands, there are a few informal terms commonly used to refer to the awarding of honors around King’s Day (Koningsdag), which takes place on April 27th each year:
Lintjesregen: This is a direct translation to “shower of ribbons” and is the most widely used informal term. It vividly captures the image of numerous royal decorations being bestowed upon deserving individuals across the country.
Lintjesuitreiking: This translates to “award ceremony of ribbons” and is a more formal but still commonly used term. It emphasizes the official nature of the event and the significance of the honors being granted.
Koninklijke onderscheidingen: This is the official Dutch term for “royal honors” and encompasses all the various decorations and awards bestowed by the Dutch monarch. While not as informal as the previous terms, it is still frequently used in everyday conversations.
Ridder in de Orde van de Nederlandse Leeuw: This is a specific example of a prestigious royal honor, often referred to informally as “een lintje” (a ribbon). It is the highest civilian order of chivalry in the Netherlands and is awarded for exceptional contributions to society.
Orde van Oranje-Nassau: Another well-known royal honor, the Order of Oranje-Nassau, is informally called “een lintje” as well. It is awarded for merits in various fields, including public service, arts and culture, and sports.
These informal terms reflect the widespread recognition and appreciation for the tradition of awarding royal honors in the Netherlands. King’s Day serves as a special occasion to honor individuals who have made significant contributions to their communities and the nation, and the informal terms used to describe these events add a touch of lightheartedness and national pride.