King’s Day (Koningsdag) is a national holiday in the Netherlands celebrated on the birthday of the reigning monarch. In 2024, it falls on Saturday, April 27th. It’s a day of vibrant orange celebrations, street markets, music, and revelry. Here are some ideas on how to spend Koningsdag 2024:
Join the Vrijmarkt (Free Market): The Netherlands’ largest free market is a major highlight of Koningsdag. People set up stalls along streets and squares, selling everything from second-hand goods to food and drinks. It’s a great opportunity to find unique bargains and soak up the festive atmosphere.
Attend a festival or concert:Many cities and towns organize special events for Koningsdag, including music festivals, street performances, and children’s activities. Check out what’s happening in your area or look for some of the bigger festivals like Kingsland Festival in Groningen or Loveland van Oranje Festival.
Dress in orange:Orange is the national color of the Netherlands, and wearing orange clothing or accessories is a popular way to show your national pride on Koningsdag.
Enjoy an orange breakfast (Oranjebitter): Start your day with a traditional Dutch orange breakfast, which typically includes ‘broodje ei’ (egg rolls), ‘flinterdunne ham’ (paper-thin ham), ‘kaas’ (cheese), and ‘oranjekoek’ (orange cake).
Sail the canals:If you’re in Amsterdam, a great way to experience Koningsdag is to take a canal boat tour. You can see the city decorated in orange from a unique perspective and enjoy the festive atmosphere on the water.
Visit a museum: Many museums in the Netherlands are open on Koningsdag, offering a chance to escape the crowds and enjoy some culture.
Have a picnic in the park: Pack a picnic basket with your favorite food and drinks and head to a local park for a relaxing day outdoors.
Attend a Koningsdag church service: The King traditionally attends a church service on Koningsdag, and many churches throughout the Netherlands hold special services on this day.
No matter how you choose to celebrate, Koningsdag is a fun and festive day to experience Dutch culture. So get out there, wear some orange, and enjoy the party!