King's Day is officially the national celebration of the birthday of the King, but this in reality is only an excuse to party hard. The celebrations takes place all over the Netherlands, but have a special atmosphere in Amsterdam.
In Amsterdam, King's Day (formerly Queen's Day) is by far the largest open-air festivity, with estimated 700.000 people come to the city, wisely arriving by train.
Places in centre like Rembrandtplein, Spui and Leidseplein are bursting with crowds celebrating and wearing orange. On King's Day, all street trade all over the city is unregulated, so it is also the time for second-hand shopping. In Vondelpark the children show their business talents offering various attractions.
From 9:00 most cafés and terraces are open. Just like most of the free street markets. Most events begin at 12:00 hrs (midday). You will find these free orange festivals everywhere throughout the city center. The biggest and most popular party venues are in the Westerstraat, Prinsengracht and Reguliersdwarsstraat.
All outdoor activities, like the free street markets and the big organized music parties, will end at 20:00 hrs. The King's party then continues inside all the pubs and clubs until deep into the night.
Experience the largest one-day dance event in the Netherlands on King's Day (27 April, 2023). Party with the likes of AfroJack, Kris Kross Amsterdam and Lucas & Steve at the Kingsland Festival. Deck yourself out in orange and party all day long on King's Day in Amsterdam RAI.
Tickets: Kingsland Festival
While the majority of Amsterdam's major museums and attractions are closed on King’s Day, several notable visitor hotspots traditionally stay open.
Here you will find a list of frequently asked questions concerning King's Day in Amsterdam.
City centre
