King’s Day (Koningsdag) is the Dutch national holiday held annually on 27 April in Amsterdam and across the Netherlands.
It is one of the world’s great open-air parties which sees Amsterdam going completely orange crazy with revellers on the streets, in parks and on boats afloat the water. Up to 800,000 visitors cram into the centre, temporarily doubling the city’s population.
When is King’s Day 2026
- King’s Night (Koningsnacht): Sunday 26 April 2026
- King’s Day (Koningsdag): Monday 27 April 2026
The 27th April date marks the birthday of the current Dutch King Willem-Alexander.
Previously the event was known as Queen’s Day and was held every 30th April – this was the birthday of former Queen Juliana. The date was changed following the abdication of Queen Beatrix in 2013 and the inauguration of the new King.
Apparently, a few people are still known to turn up in Amsterdam each year for 30th April – having read some out-of-date content online!
Note that whenever 27th April falls on a Sunday (as happened in 2025) – King’s Day is celebrated on 26th April.
On King’s Day morning each year the Dutch Royal family (House of Orange-Nassau) do a walkabout visit around a chosen town in the Netherlands – which is shown live on state television.
What happens in Amsterdam on King’s Day?
King’s Day in Amsterdam is the largest celebration in the Netherlands, drawing visitors from across the country as well as international tourists.
Essentially the centre of Amsterdam becomes a giant street and canal party. Events include:
- A free market (vrijmarkt) in Amsterdam
- Informal street parties and live music
- Packed canals with both private and commercial boats
- Food and drink stalls throughout the city
- Ticketed dance festivals at designated venues
The atmosphere varies by area. Some neighbourhoods are relaxed and family-focused, while others are crowded and party-oriented.
Book a King’s Day All-Inclusive Boat Party here
Vrijmarkt (Free Market) in Amsterdam
One of the main highlights of King’s Day in Amsterdam is the citywide free market (vrijmarkt). This is where people set up stalls and sell clothes, food, drinks and just about anything else – from plants, old electronics, vintage items, bric-a-brac and much old tat. Prices are negotiable which is all part of the fun.
Many Amsterdam residents set up shop directly outside their own houses – days before they mark their territory with tape or chalk (“bezet” meaning “occupied”). There are also professional traders and opportunists who take advantage of the tax-free trading.
The free market in Amsterdam officially starts from 06:00 on King’s Day and goes on all day until 20:00. Bargain hunters should get there early. By mid-afternoon some stalls are abandoned and you could be able to pick-up things for free.
Note: the following items cannot be for sale at the vrijmarkt: alcohol, meat, fish, dairy and live animals.
Best areas for the vrijmarkt:
- Jordaan and canal belt streets
- Vondelpark (children-focused)
- Westerpark and Oud-West areas
- De Pijp neighbourhood
Children’s markets and activities
Amsterdam’s Vondelpark hosts the main children’s vrijmarkt from 09:00 where kids can sell their unwanted books and toys. They also perform music and run small games.
Other children’s markets can be found (amongst others) at Amstelveld, Artisplein, Bellamyplein, Erasmuspark, Frederiksplein, Leliegracht 36-58, NDSM-wharf, Osdorpplein, Rembrandtplein, Sarphatipark and Westerpark.
These areas are generally calmer than the city centre and suitable for visitors with children.
Due to crowding, it is advised to avoid Jordaan and Westerstraat areas if you are with children.
King’s Night (Koningsnacht)
Celebrations actually start the evening before on Sunday 26 April 2026 – King’s Night (Koningsnacht). Bars, clubs and venues host events across the city with a strong focus on nightlife.
Note that the city of Utrecht (30 minutes south of Amsterdam by train) starts its free market on King’s Night (26 April) from 18:00 – with an authentic and friendly atmosphere, it’s well worth a visit.
King’s Day festivals (ticketed events)
In addition to the citywide party, several King’s Day festivals in Amsterdam take place which are among the biggest electronic music events of the year.
These require advance tickets and are held away from the busiest central areas. They can run until 22:00.
Major events include:
- Kingsland Festival (Olympic Stadium Amsterdam)
- Loveland Burst (Meerpark Amsterdam)
- Free Your Mind x Oranjebloesem (RAI Amsterdam)
- Cartel Kingsday (WestWeelde, Amsterdam)
Tickets are not sold at the door and often sell out well in advance.
Getting around on King’s Day
The best way of getting around Amsterdam on King’s Day is on foot – temporary signposts can guide you to areas of interest.
Transport in Amsterdam continues to operates but with restrictions due to crowds and road closures. You do require a ticket as normal – check Amsterdam transport ticket options.
GVB Public transport:
- Trams run limited or alternative routes and avoid the inner centre
- Metro, buses and ferries operate on adjusted timetables
- Some metro stations (such as RAI and Nieuwmarkt) are closed
NS Trains:
- Special national timetable in operation
- Check your trip with NS and allow extra travel time
- Extremely busy throughout the day
If arriving by train from outside Amsterdam consider stations such as Amsterdam Zuid or Amsterdam Amstel and from there walk into the centre.
Amsterdam RAI and Science Park train stations are closed on the day.
Baggage lockers at train stations are also not available.
What’s open on King’s Day?
Supermarkets do open on King’s Day though hours can be restricted in some branches. Most shops in the city centre remain closed.
Major museums in Amsterdam open on King’s Day include:
- Anne Frank House
- Rijksmuseum
- Stedelijk
- STRAAT
- MOCO Museum
- Van Gogh Museum
Note that most other museums including FOAM, Maritime Museum, NEMO, Rembrandt House and Wereldmuseum Amsterdam are closed.
The world-famous Keukenhof gardens are open on King’s Day.
Always check individual venues in advance.
Practical tips for visitors
- Arrive early: the city gets progressively busier
- Wear orange: even a small item helps you blend in
- Avoid peak areas: Dam Square and central canals can become extremely crowded
- Stay aware: pick-pocketing can occur in dense crowds
- Alcohol: You can only carry one alcoholic drink with you at any time
- Private boats: Can only have a maximum of 12 passengers+1 captain
- Plan meeting points: mobile networks can be overloaded; Livecrowd assistance on-the-day is available here
If you prefer a calmer experience, explore neighbourhoods outside the central canal belt.
King’s Day across the Netherlands
Although Amsterdam attracts the largest crowds, celebrations take place nationwide. Cities such as Arnhem, Den Haag, Eindhoven, Groningen, Haarlem, Rotterdam and Utrecht all host events, often with a slightly less intense atmosphere.
More events in April
Looking for more things to do during your visit?
See our full guide to What’s On in Amsterdam in April 2026 for concerts, exhibitions, festivals and more.
FAQ: King’s Day Amsterdam
Is King’s Day busy in Amsterdam?
Yes, it is one of the busiest days of the year with large crowds in the city centre.
What should I wear on King’s Day?
Orange clothing is traditionally worn across the Netherlands.
What time does the vrijmarkt start?
The free market officially starts at 06:00 on King’s Day.
This article was published on 24 March 2026.
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