Curious what the Dutch mean when they say “King’s Day is like nothing else”? On April 27, Amsterdam usually transforms into a sea of orange. But this year, there’s a twist: King’s Day will be celebrated on Saturday, April 26. Why? Because April 27 falls on a Sunday — and in the Netherlands, King’s Day is never celebrated on a Sunday.
No worries though — the party simply starts a day earlier. Streets, parks, and canals will still fill with music, markets, and orange-clad crowds. It’s festive, fun — and yes, a bit overwhelming. Here’s how to enjoy it like a local.
The night before: Koningsnacht
The celebrations actually begin the night before King’s Day — with Koningsnacht (King’s Night). On the evening of Friday, April 25, the city warms up with live music, DJ sets, and street parties across Amsterdam. It’s a lively, open-air pre-party where bars spill onto the sidewalks and locals gather for drinks, dancing, and fun.
The vibe? Energetic but friendly. You’ll find big crowds around spots like Jordaan, Leidseplein, and NDSM-wharf — but also plenty of smaller parties in local neighborhoods. If you’re up for it, join in. Just don’t forget to save some energy for the next day!
What is King’s Day (Koningsdag)?
King’s Day celebrates the birthday of King Willem-Alexander. It’s a national holiday — and a full-blown street festival. Locals dress in orange, live music fills the air, and the entire city becomes one big open-air market and party.
Early birds and treasure hunters: The Vrijmarkt
One of the most unique traditions is the vrijmarkt — a citywide flea market where anyone can sell their stuff without a permit. Expect everything from vintage clothes to old toys, homemade cakes, and creative street performances. The best deals? Usually found early in the day!
For families: The Vondelpark Kids’ Market
Looking for something more low-key (and adorable)? Head to Vondelpark in the morning. It turns into a special children’s market, where kids sell toys, perform music, or try their first business ideas. It’s charming, cheerful — and very Dutch.
A Few Things to Keep in Mind
- It’s busy. Really busy. The city center gets packed, especially in the afternoon.
- It’s car-free. Public transport runs differently, and bikes are blocked from certain streets.
- Dress orange. It’s the color of the royal family and a fun way to join in.
- Bring cash. Not every seller has a card reader.
Let King’s Day be your wildest Dutch adventure.