Kings Day Verified listing

King’s Day (Koningsdag) in Amsterdam is one of the Netherlands' most iconic and festive national celebrations, held annually on April 27th to honour the birthday of King Willem-Alexander. The entire city transforms into a vibrant sea of orange as locals and visitors alike don the national colour to join in the festivities. This much-anticipated event features a mix of open-air markets, live music performances, boat parties, and street parades, offering something for everyone. As a public holiday, King’s Day is free to attend, with activities sprawling across the city’s canals, parks, and squares, drawing millions of people from around the world.

Known for its lively and inclusive atmosphere, King’s Day embraces themes of freedom, unity, and celebration, with the city becoming one massive open-air festival. The famous vrijmarkt (free market) sees streets lined with vendors selling second-hand goods, creating a bustling atmosphere reminiscent of a community-wide garage sale. Simultaneously, live DJs and bands perform at stages throughout the city, with electronic dance music dominating the scene. The canals come alive with brightly decorated boats hosting festive parties, while neighbourhoods organize their own local activities, from games for children to beer gardens for adults.

King’s Day is suitable for all ages, with family-friendly events taking place during the day, and more energetic nightlife options for adults continuing into the evening. The celebrations typically start early in the morning and peak in the afternoon, though some revellers keep the party going well into the night. Due to its massive popularity, it’s advised to plan your visit early, as the city becomes extremely crowded and accommodations fill up quickly. Whether you're browsing the markets, dancing to live music, or joining a boat party on the canals, King’s Day in Amsterdam offers an unforgettable experience that embodies the joyous spirit of Dutch culture.