King's Day
King’s Day, or 'Koningsdag', is one of the Netherlands’ most exciting and colourful festivities. It is a national holiday that celebrates the birthday of the reigning King Willem-Alexander. It is celebrated annually on 27 April, with many people starting the festivities the night before on King's Night, or 'Koningsnacht', on 26 April. King’s Day is usually a very big event across the country, with local celebrations in every neighbourhood. As part of a tradition, the royal family visits a different city each year to celebrate with them. This year, the King, Queen, and their three daughters will visit Doetinchem, and as every year, the programme will be broadcasted on national television (NOS) and online.
For internationals, King’s Day is more than just a party—it's a chance to connect with Dutch traditions and culture. The vibrant atmosphere, impromptu performances, and friendly crowds make it an unforgettable experience. Whether you join an outdoor event, explore the markets, or dance along with the locals, King’s Day is the perfect way to immerse yourself in Dutch culture. So, grab your orange outfit and join in the fun!
Don't miss this years celebration date change!
Some of you might already know, and if you don't, here is a fun fact: Did you know that it was not always King's Day in the Netherlands? Just as everyone is now used to King’s Day being on April 27, replacing the former Queen’s Day on April 30, another change is coming specifically for this year. In 2025, the traditional date for King’s Day, April 27, falls on a Sunday. According to the Dutch Government Information Service, whenever the birthday of the ruling monarch falls on a Sunday, the festivities are moved to a day earlier. Therefore King's Day will be celebrated this year on Saturday - 26 April, and King's Night will now also be a day earlier starting on Friday evening, 25 April.
How to celebrate like the Dutch?
A must is to be dressed in orange, the Dutch embrace their national pride with a day full of festivities. Orange outfits, accessories, flags, and even face paint fill the streets, creating a sea of vibrant colour. Cities and towns across the country come alive with events such as street markets, concerts, and lively parties. Major cities like Amsterdam, The Hague, Rotterdam, and Utrecht are especially popular for their grand celebrations, with all sorts of music on the streets. And if the weather allows for it, or not, that hasn't stopped anyone before, you will definitely see many people on boats cruising the canals.
Celebrating in The Hague?
On King’s Night, the evening before the big day, The Life I Live Festival transforms the city centre into a lively open air stage filled with music, energy, and joy. Starting at 19:00 and continuing until the early hours until 02:00, this free festival showcases over 40 performances from local and international acts across various locations, including Grote Markt and Lange Voorhout.
A unique highlight of King’s Day is the vrijmarkt, or free market, where local residents sell second-hand items in parks, on pavements, and throughout neighbourhood streets. These markets can be found in any city (Utrecht having a 24 hours market, already starting on King's Night), and are a fantastic way to experience the Dutch sense of community while hunting for bargains. Feel free to join the vrijmarkt as a seller yourself, if you have things at home in need for finding a new home!
In addition, a notable staple of the celebrations in The Hague is the Geranium Market, a beloved tradition held at Lange Voorhout. From 09:30 to 17:00, the market opens its stalls, offering an array of summer-flowering plants, including vibrant geraniums, succulents, and other perennials. Gardening enthusiasts can also find tools, advice, and inspiration from local organisations. The market begins with a festive ceremony at 10:30, complete with music and the awarding of a special annual prize.
These events beautifully capture the spirit of King’s Day in The Hague, blending community, culture, and celebration in a way that invites everyone to join in the fun. Whether you’re dancing to live music or browsing colourful flower stalls, The Hague provides a warm and welcoming backdrop to immerse yourself in the excitement of this national holiday. Visit the website of Thehague.com for the full agenda of King's Day events happening in the city.