Koningsdag (King’s Day) is a national holiday in the Netherlands celebrated on April 27th, the birthday of King Willem-Alexander. It’s a day of vibrant orange celebrations, street markets, music, and revelry. Here are some ideas on how to make the most of Koningsdag:
- Dress in Orange: The national color of the Netherlands is orange, and on Koningsdag, the entire country seems to transform into a sea of orange. People wear orange clothes, hats, wigs, and even paint their faces orange.
- Visit a vrijmarkt (free market): On Koningsdag, the whole country transforms into one giant vrijmarkt (free market). People set up stalls along the streets to sell anything from second-hand goods and antiques to homemade crafts and food. It’s a great opportunity to find unique bargains and soak up the festive atmosphere.
- Enjoy the music: Koningsdag is a day for music and celebration. There are street performers, concerts, and DJ sets all over the country. Many bars and cafes also have special events planned for the day.
- Sail the canals: If you’re in Amsterdam, a great way to experience Koningsdag is to take a boat trip along the canals. You’ll see the city from a different perspective and get a chance to see all the orange-decorated boats.
- Go to a festival: There are many Koningsdag festivals held all over the Netherlands. These festivals typically have live music, food stalls, and other activities.
- Have a picnic in the park: If you’re looking for a more relaxed way to celebrate Koningsdag, you can always pack a picnic basket and head to the park. There will be plenty of other people doing the same thing, so you’re sure to soak up the festive atmosphere.
No matter how you choose to celebrate, Koningsdag is a day to let loose and have fun. So put on your orange outfit, grab some friends, and head out to enjoy the festivities!