King’s Day in Amsterdam

A great springtime celebration – soak up the vibrant festivities that the Netherlands has to offer!

For almost 130 years, the Dutch have honoured their monarchy with Queen’s Day and Princess’s Day festivities, however 2014 marks the first ever King’s Day (Koningsdag) with events across the country to celebrate. Renowned for being one of the biggest and most colourful celebrations throughout the Netherlands, the Dutch capital, Amsterdam, will have a variety of events to mark the occasion.

King’s Day officially falls on 27 April, but tradition dictates that it isn’t celebrated on a Sunday, so celebrations are taking place Saturday 26 April.

But what’s in store?

If you’re near the Dutch capital on King’s Day, there’s certainly lots to keep you entertained – whether you’re a family travelling with young children, a group of friends or a couple on a city break, everyone can get involved.

Families

Head to The Vondelpark with your youngsters, where they can become buskers for the day – but it’s not all happening there. Face-painting, games and sports events will be taking place across the city, with many areas traditionally designated as child-friendly. How about a street fiesta in Oost District? The Bredeweg Festival boasts live music of a variety of styles across many stages, great food and many activities to keep you & your family entertained, including rides, storytellers, craft workshops & performance artists.

Take a look at I Amsterdam’s family guide for full details: http://www.iamsterdam.com/en-GB/experience/kings-day/whats-on/kings-day-family-fun

Street Markets

Amsterdammers love to haggle! So embrace this culture and pick up a bargain at the vrijmarkt (free market!) Turning into one of the world’s largest flea markets – there’s even a children’s event in The Vondelpark! If you fancy getting involved, head around the hot-spots to see if you can pick up yourself something to remember Amsterdam on King’s Day.

Couples & Friends

Looking for a party to celebrate the festivities? There’s certainly plenty happening – from four stages of the best DJs and live acts at the Olympic Stadium to the Breakfast Club party at the new Tolhuistuin, or how about These Guys Kingsday (a free event), taking place inside the NDSM Treehouse?

Whatever your musical taste, there’s certainly something to get you in the party mood! Take a glance at I Amsterdam’s 2014 party highlights for more events and details: http://www.iamsterdam.com/en-GB/experience/kings-day/whats-on/kings-day-parties

Don’t forget, King’s Day is made even more vibrant and colourful with the opportunity for everyone to embrace the national colour, orange (oranjegekte) – from wearing orange items of clothing to dying their hair orange, you’ll stand out more in your ordinary attire!