Get ready to immerse yourself in a sea of orange and join in on the celebrations of a lifetime because King's Day in Amsterdam is right around the corner! As the Netherlands gears up to honour the birthday of King Willem-Alexander on 27th April 2025, Amsterdam transforms into party central and is unlike any other day in the city. Whether you're a local or a visitor, King's Day 2025 promises an electrifying experience filled with music, laughter, and unforgettable memories. So, grab your best orange outfit and get ready to dive into the joyful chaos of King's Day in Amsterdam with our blog that outlines exactly what happens at King's Day Amsterdam 2025.

What is King's Day in the Netherlands?

people on a boat on kings day amsterdam 2024
King's Day, or Koningsdag, in the Netherlands is a national annual celebration on 27th April. Formerly known as Queen's Day, it was renamed after King Willem-Alexander's ascension to the throne in 2013.

What Happens on King's Day in Amsterdam

In Amsterdam, the capital city, King's Day is unavoidable with the whole city overflowing with street parties, King's Day parades, and open-air markets. The city buzzes with energy as locals and tourists alike don their finest orange attire to join in the celebrations, creating an atmosphere of joy and unity that epitomizes Dutch culture. From exploring bustling markets to enjoying live music along the iconic canals, King's Day in Amsterdam offers a unique and unforgettable experience that captures the essence of Dutch heritage and camaraderie.

Is everything closed on King's Day in Amsterdam?

While King's Day in Amsterdam is a national holiday and many businesses, including government offices and banks, may be closed or operate on reduced hours, the city itself is far from deserted. In fact, King's Day is one of the busiest days of the year in Amsterdam, with streets bustling with activity and festivities. While some shops and restaurants may choose to close for the day, especially smaller establishments, many tourist attractions, bars, cafes, and restaurants in popular areas remain open to cater to the influx of visitors. Additionally, public transportation services typically run on a modified schedule to accommodate the Kings Day parties, making it easy for residents and visitors to navigate the city. So, while you may encounter some closures, there's still plenty to see and do in Amsterdam on King's Day!

How do you get around Amsterdam on King's Day?


Kings Day in Amsterdam is an experience like no other, but it does require some planning, especially when it comes to transport and parking. With up to 2 million visitors streaming into the city, the streets are busier than ever.

Here are some essential tips to help you get around on Kings Day Amsterdam 2025:

  • Public transport: The best way to explore Amsterdam on Kings Day is by public transport. Trams, buses, and metros offer extensive services, but keep in mind adjusted routes and schedules. Plan your trip in advance using the official GVB app to receive real-time updates.
  • Cycling: Cycling is also a great option (we are in Amsterdam after all), since you can avoid the over-crowded trams. Try to park your bike on quieter side streets so you can easily find it once the party's over
  • Avoid the Crowds: If you want to avoid the crowds, consider coming to the city early in the morning or later in the afternoon. Peak hours are usually between 11am and 3pm, so planning your visit outside these times will make it easier to navigate and enjoy the party.

What are the flea markets for on Kings Day Amsterdam 2025?

vrijmarkt Koningsdag Amsterdam
King's Day Amsterdam is not only a celebration of orange craziness and national pride but also the perfect opportunity to buy interesting nik-naks at the city's many pop-up flea markets. From antique treasures to handmade artworks, you can browse tons of vintage stalls that sell goods at very low rates. Children set up their own stalls and wake up early in the morning to sell unwanted items to obliging tourists and locals.

The Best King's Day Flea Markets in Amsterdam

kings day people partying in the house on kings day amsterdam 2024

  • Vondelpark: Traditionally the most popular children's free market, where young vendors offer their toys and homemade treats. The Vondelpark flea market offers a family-friendly environment where children can also enjoy a variety of performances.
  • NDSM-werf: Amsterdam's largest children's free market, known for its musical performances and workshops. A creative and lively place where you can enjoy art and music in addition to second-hand finds
  • Bredewegfestival: Located in Watergraafsmeer in Amsterdam Oost (East), this fun Kings Day festival combines flea market fun with performances, plays and the unique Opera Op Straat. For quality second-hand stuff and a cultural experience, this is the place to be
  • Beethovenstraat and Rivierenbuurt: These areas are known for their quality second-hand stuff. From designer clothes to unique home goods, the chances of finding special finds here are high

Can you hire boats for Kings Day Amsterdam?

Boat hire Koningsdag amsterdam
Taking to the canals on King's Day is one of the most popular Kings Day activities. With several options available, from luxury boats to electric sloops, there is something for every group size and preference. Be sure to get there early, as getting a spot on the water during Koningsdag is very popular. It's also worth planning ahead and booking your boat far in advance as King's Day is the most popular day of the year for boat rental in the city. We also recommend hiring a skipper as the canals are packed on King's Day.

What are the best boat routes for Koningsdag Amsterdam?

For the best experience while boating on Kings Day in Amsterdam, it is best to choose a route that takes you past the most important and atmospheric parts of the city.

  • The Grachtengordel: The historic canals, including the Prinsengracht, Keizersgracht, and Herengracht, offer beautiful views and are typical of Amsterdam's atmosphere. These canals are wide enough for several boats, which is handy on a busy day like King's Day.
  • The Jordaan: Cruise through the Jordaan's smaller canals, such as the Brouwersgracht and the Leliegracht. This neighbourhood is known for its picturesque bridges and lively atmosphere.
  • The Amstel: Consider cruising part of your route along the Amstel. You can sail under the famous Skinny Bridge and enjoy the view of the river running through the heart of Amsterdam.

Tip: Make sure you check for the most up-to-date information and any changes in regulations before departure. Waternet and the City of Amsterdam often publish specific instructions and maps for boating during King's Day. Using the 'Vaarwater' app can also be useful for navigation and information on the day itself!

What are the best King's Day festivals in Amsterdam?

Kings Day festival Loveland
The Koningsdag 2025 festivals offer a wide range of music genres, from EDM, house, techno, to harder styles and urban. Each Kings Day festival has its own unique atmosphere and line-up, ensuring there is something for every music lover:

1. Loveland Van Orange

Loveland Van Orange celebrates King's Day at the beautiful Meerpark in Amsterdam. It boasts a spectacular line-up, consisting of top names such as Reinier Zonneveld Live, Kölsch, Pan-Pot, Colyn, Innellea, Miss Melera, and Olivier Weiter. These artists represent the crème de la crème of the electronic music world and guarantee an unforgettable experience.

2. Orange Blossom Festival

Orange Blossom Festival welcomes festival-goers on King's Day 2025, at the iconic Olympic Stadium in Amsterdam. This year, Orange Blossom shows off a royal line-up with names like Amelie Lens, DYEN, Joris Voorn, Nico Moreno, HI-LO, and Luuk van Dijk b2b Michel de Hey. Known for their impact in the electronic music scene, these artists promise an unforgettable experience

3. Kingsland Festival

Kingsland Festival Amsterdam 2025 promises an impressive line-up featuring some of the biggest names in electronic music, including Martin Garrix, Antoon, Nicky Romero, Outsiders, Bizzey, Kris Kross Amsterdam, and many others. In addition to the music, Kingsland Festival Amsterdam offers a range of unique features, such as interactive art installations, themed areas, food trucks, and VIP lounges, to create an unforgettable festival experience

4. Urban Music Legends Festival

crowds at a kings day festival
The Urban Music Legends Festival, taking place on Koningsdag 2025 at the Rhonepark in Amsterdam, promises an unforgettable day of urban, hip-hop and rap. With performances by the likes of Chivv, Nayla, Invictim, Dystinct, Avalon All Stars, Melv!ee, KM, and Broederliefde spread across various stages such as Avalon & Friends and Pianoland, the festival offers a rich mix of talents and established names. The afterparty continues into the early hours with artists like Levy, Washington, Chai, and Tyra Talisa, offering visitors a spectacular experience from start to finish

5. Cartel Kingsday Festival

Cartel Kingsday 2025 in Amsterdam promises to be an unforgettable 17-hour experience both indoors and outdoors, day and night. The festival will take place on 27 April 2025 at the Westerunie, located on Klönneplein in Amsterdam. The event, organised by house and techno collective Cartel Amsterdam, is known for its extensive programme that runs from 12:00 in the afternoon until 05:00 the next morning. Some notable names in the line-up include Ajuma, Angelboy, Ben Hemsley, Black Cadmium, and De Sluwe Vos. Three areas are available during the day: one outdoors and two indoors. At night, the party will continue in three different venues within the Westerunie. For more details about the event, including the full line-up and how to get tickets, visit Cartel Kingsday's official website and the Westerunie page.

What should you wear on King's Day 2025?

When celebrating King's Day in Amsterdam, you've got to plan a strong outfit and it MUST be orange. Start with a solid base. A simple orange dress or a T-shirt with a Dutch flag can serve as the perfect canvas for your accessories. For men, an orange polo shirt or button-down is a great choice; everyone has their own taste and preferences in this.

Want to take your King's Day outfit to the next level? Then check out the following King's Day accessories:

  • Orange Hats or Crowns: A must-have for any Kings Day outfit. Opt for a cute orange hat or a playful crown to really get into the party mood.
  • Jewellery: Orange bracelets, necklaces, or earrings can give your outfit that little bit extra.
  • Face paint: Get your face painted with the Dutch flag or orange flowers for a festive touch.
  • Sunglasses: Sunglasses with orange lenses or frames are not only stylish but also practical for a day outdoors.

With these tips, you are guaranteed to be the king or queen of King's Day. Put on your most brash orange outfit, add some unique accessories, and you'll be all set to celebrate Koningsdag 2025 in style!

How to make King's Day Amsterdam Unforgettable

kings day 2024 is one of the best days to travel to amsterdam
We hope this guide to King's Day Amsterdam has inspired you to book a holiday to Amsterdam to experience King's Day in person. Whether you browse the numerous flea markets, dance at the King's Day festivals, or stroll and sail through the colourful streets of Amsterdam, we know that you'll have a ball celebrating King's Day in Amsterdam. If you know someone who's always wanted to experience King's Day in Amsterdam, consider gifting them an experience gift card. You could choose to gift their flight, hotel or a fun Amsterdam activity that they'll have 2 years to redeem. These versatile gift cards for experiences are perfect for every occasion and every type of recipient.