King's Day
April 26, Saturday
Highlights of the holiday
King's Day was established in 2014, following the accession of King Willem-Alexander to the throne. Prior to this, since 1885, the Netherlands had celebrated Queen's Day (Koninginnedag), which was dedicated to the birthday of Queen Beatrix. When Beatrix abdicated in 2013 in favour of her son, Willem-Alexander, the holiday was renamed and moved to a new day, 27 April, which became the official King's Day.
Royal Family On this day, King Willem-Alexander and his family traditionally spend the day in one of the cities of the Netherlands, where they participate in various events, meetings with citizens and official ceremonies. This gives people the opportunity to see their monarchs in an informal setting.
Mass participation. King's Day has become a day of national unity, in which all levels of society take part. It is not only a public holiday, but also a social phenomenon that unites people of all ages and professions.
How it is celebrated
Festive events take place throughout the country, but especially large-scale events take place in Amsterdam, where people take to the streets in orange outfits (orange is the national color of the Netherlands, symbolizing the Orange dynasty).
Parades, concerts and street parties are held in Amsterdam and other large cities.
Also on this day, flotations (floating parties) take place on the canals of Amsterdam, as well as large markets (Vrijmarkt) where citizens sell their goods - from antiques to clothes and toys. This creates an atmosphere of fun and exchange.
Orange tradition. Orange on King's Day symbolizes belonging to the House of Orange, after which the Netherlands bears this name. It is also the color of national pride and unity.