Kings Day, also known as Koningsdag, is a national holiday in the Netherlands that marks the birthday of the reigning Dutch monarch. It is celebrated annually on April 27th, unless that date is a Sunday, in which case it is moved to April 26th.
The History of Kings Day
Kings Day has a rich history that dates back to the late 19th century. It was first established in 1885 to celebrate the birth of Princess Wilhelmina, who would later become Queen Wilhelmina.
Initially, the holiday was known as Prinsessedag, or Princess Day. It was celebrated on August 31st, which was Queen Wilhelmina’s birthday. However, after the ascension of Queen Juliana in 1949, the holiday was renamed Koninginnedag, or Queens Day, and moved to April 30th to coincide with Queen Juliana’s birthday.
In 2013, the Netherlands welcomed a new king, Willem-Alexander, after the abdication of Queen Beatrix. To honor the new king, Koninginnedag was transformed into Koningsdag and moved to April 27th, which is King Willem-Alexander’s birthday.
Traditions and Celebrations
Kings Day is widely celebrated throughout the Netherlands with various traditions and festivities. The most notable of these traditions is the nationwide flea market, or “vrijmarkt.” People of all ages gather in the streets to sell their unwanted items, turning the entire country into one giant open-air market.
In addition to the vrijmarkt, there are also parades, concerts, and other live performances held in cities and towns across the country. The streets are filled with music, dance, and a sea of orange, which is the national color of the Netherlands and represents the Dutch royal family.
Boat parades are also a popular feature of Kings Day. In Amsterdam, thousands of boats take to the canals, creating a vibrant and colorful spectacle. People dress up, dance, and enjoy the festivities both on and off the boats.
Child-Focused Activities
Kings Day is a particularly special day for children. Many cities and towns organize special activities and games for kids to enjoy. These can include treasure hunts, face painting, traditional Dutch games, and more.
One of the highlights for children is the opportunity to sell their toys and homemade crafts at the vrijmarkt. It is a chance for them to experience entrepreneurship and interact with the local community.
Furthermore, carnival rides and amusement parks are set up in various locations, providing endless entertainment for children and families.
Kings Day is a joyful and festive celebration that brings together people from all walks of life in the Netherlands. It is a day filled with traditions, music, colors, and vibrant energy. Whether you are participating in the enthusiastic vrijmarkt, watching the boat parade, or enjoying the various performances, Kings Day is an experience that truly captures the spirit of the Dutch people.