Koningsdag (King’s Day) is a national holiday in the Netherlands celebrated on April 27th every year. It’s a day to celebrate the birthday of the Dutch king, Willem-Alexander. Here are some ideas on how to celebrate Koningsdag 2024:
- Visit the vrijmarkt (free market): The most characteristic feature of Koningsdag is the vrijmarkt, a giant flea market held throughout the Netherlands. People set up stalls along streets and squares, selling everything from household goods and antiques to food and drinks.
You can find almost anything at the vrijmarkt, so it’s a great place to score some bargains or find unique souvenirs. Be prepared for crowds and bring cash, as many vendors don’t accept credit cards. - Attend a festival or concert: Many cities and towns organize special events for Koningsdag, such as music festivals, street performances, and children’s activities. There’s something for everyone to enjoy on Koningsdag, so be sure to check out what’s happening in your area.
- Dress up in orange: Orange is the national color of the Netherlands, so it’s no surprise that people wear orange clothing and accessories on Koningsdag.
The whole country turns orange on Koningsdag, from the clothes people wear to the decorations in the streets. It’s a fun and festive atmosphere! - Enjoy a traditional Dutch meal:For lunch or dinner, enjoy some traditional Dutch food, such as herring, poffertjes (small pancakes), or stamppot (mashed potatoes with vegetables). Herring is a popular snack on Koningsdag. It’s a raw fish that is typically eaten with chopped onions and pickles. Poffertjes are small, fluffy pancakes that are dusted with powdered sugar and served with butter and syrup. They’re a delicious treat! Stamppot is a hearty dish made with mashed potatoes, vegetables, and sometimes sausage. It’s a perfect comfort food on a chilly Koningsdag.
- Sail the canals: If you’re in Amsterdam, take a boat tour on the canals to see the city from a different perspective. Many boats will be decorated in orange for Koningsdag. It’s a great way to see the city and soak up the festive atmosphere.
Here are some additional tips for enjoying Koningsdag:
- Be prepared for crowds: Koningsdag is a very popular event, so expect large crowds, especially in the city centers.
- Bring cash: Many vendors at the vrijmarkt only accept cash.
- Public transportation: Public transportation will be running on a limited schedule on Koningsdag. If you’re planning on traveling to a different city, be sure to check the schedules in advance.
- Be safe: Koningsdag can be a lot of fun, but it’s important to be safe. Be aware of your surroundings and drink responsibly.