King’s day in Netherlands

What is Kingsday in The Netherlands?

If you’re looking for a unique and vibrant experience in the Netherlands, King’s Day is an event you absolutely cannot miss. This national holiday, celebrated annually on April 27th, offers a colorful and festive glimpse into Dutch culture. Whether you’re a tourist or a local, King’s Day has something for everyone. In this blog post, we’ll take you through the highlights of this special day and provide tips to make the most of your King’s Day adventure.

King’s Day, formerly known as Queen’s Day, celebrates the birthday of King Willem-Alexander. The entire country turns orange, the national color of the Netherlands, and people celebrate with markets, music, and a variety of activities. Streets in cities and towns transform into massive party venues where conviviality and togetherness are at the forefront.

The free market at Kings Day in Netherlands

One of the most characteristic aspects of King’s Day is the free market (vrijmarkt). On this day, people can sell their second-hand goods on the streets without needing a permit. This results in a gigantic flea market where you can find a wide array of items. From vintage clothing and books to toys and antiques, the free market is a paradise for bargain hunters and treasure seekers.

Tips for the free market:

1. Come Early: The best items are often sold early in the morning.
2. Negotiate: It’s customary to haggle over prices, so don’t hesitate to make an offer.
3. Bring Cash: While some sellers now accept card payments, cash is often more convenient.

Music and performances

On King’s Day, there are countless music stages and performances throughout the country. From local bands and DJs to well-known artists, there’s something for everyone. Cities like Amsterdam, Rotterdam, Utrecht, and Arnhem are renowned for their large-scale parties and festivals where you can enjoy live music, dance, and a festive atmosphere.

Recommendations for music lovers:

1. Amsterdam: The city turns into a massive festival site with stages on every corner and boats filled with partying people in the canals.
2. Rotterdam: Known for its large outdoor parties and diverse music performances.
3. Utrecht: Cozy street parties and a lively atmosphere in the historic city center.
4. Arnhem: Offers a fantastic mix of street performances, music stages, and vibrant celebrations throughout the city.

Children’s activities: Family fun on King’s Day

King’s Day is not just for adults; children can also enjoy the festivities. Many cities organize special children’s activities such as games, face painting, and kids’ markets. This makes King’s Day a perfect opportunity for a fun family outing.

Fun activities for kids:

1. Games: Many cities have special children’s games like sack races, tug-of-war, and bouncy castles.
2. Kids’ Market: Children can sell their own items at a kids’ market.
3. Creative Workshops: From crafts to painting, there are plenty of creative workshops to be found.

King’s Day food and drinks: Taste the flavors of the Netherlands

During King’s Day, you can also indulge in delicious Dutch treats. Street vendors and stalls offer a wide range of snacks and drinks that you won’t want to miss. Think stroopwafels, herring, poffertjes, and, of course, the famous Dutch fries.

Culinary recommendations:

1. Stroopwafels: Freshly baked and deliciously sweet.
2. Herring: A typical Dutch delicacy, often served with onions and pickles.
3. Poffertjes: Small pancakes dusted with powdered sugar and a pat of butter.

Practical tips for an unforgettable King’s Day

To ensure you can celebrate King’s Day without any worries, here are some practical tips:

1. Wear comfortable Ccothes: You’ll be doing a lot of walking and standing, so make sure you’re comfortably dressed. And don’t forget to wear something orange to fully embrace the festive spirit!
2. Use public transportation: Many roads are closed, and public transport is the best way to get around.
3. Make a plan: Check in advance what’s happening in the city where you’re celebrating King’s Day and plan your day accordingly.

Conclusion

King’s Day in the Netherlands is a celebration like no other. With its unique mix of culture, music, markets, and conviviality, it offers an unforgettable experience for everyone. Whether you’re a bargain hunter, a music enthusiast, or a family man, King’s Day has something for everyone. So, put on your orange clothes and immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere of this special day!