King’s Day

Popular Dutch holiday King’s Day is celebrated every year on April 27th. Everyone celebrate the birthday of the King with a huge street carnival all over the Netherlands. In fact, it used to be called Queen’s Day for more than fifty years. Then it has gone through different incarnations over the years. In 2013 Queen Beatrix announced her abdication and said her oldest son Willem Alexander will become the King of the Netherlands. So it is celebrated as King’s Day since then.

However, you should know there is an unwritten rule for King’s Day, you have to wear orange! You’ll see the crowd wearing orange clothes from head to toe. It’s the symbol of Dutch Royal Family and after the winter, people want to welcome the spring with an energizing color. So If you aren’t wearing orange you’re not doing it right. Wigs, crazy make-ups and costumes will make your day!

It’s a fun-day for everyone. Teenagers, adults and families take part in various activities. Celebrations start the night before in the city and there is no place without the live music playing! During the day there are parties, parades, flea markets everywhere. There are also boat parties for those who want to see the Netherlands through the canals. People sell their old stuff without requiring permit in the parks and streets. You can purchase everything that comes to mind at reasonable prices. When the partying stops and you feel hungry, you can find delicious treats and street foods around every corner. Especially you should try the local dessert “Tompouce” a sweet pastry loaded with cream. They are decorated with delicious orange icing especially for King’s Day.

Mark your calendars and join King’s Day this year. You will have so much fun and witness a different tradition. You won’t regret it!