King's Day in Amsterdam: the city turns orange

King's Day (Koningsdag) celebrates the birthday of King Willem-Alexander, and Amsterdam turns into one huge orange party. The streets become a giant flea market, canals fill with boats, and music plays on every corner.

Fun facts

• King's Day replaced Queen's Day in 2014, when Willem-Alexander became king.
• On this day anyone can sell goods on the street without a permit in the vrijmarkt.
• Orange is the colour of the Dutch royal House of Orange-Nassau.

What to see

• The canals packed with party boats.
• The children's market in the Vondelpark.
• The street stages and parties in the Jordaan.

What to taste

• Oranje tompouce, a puff pastry cream slice with orange icing.
• Oranjebitter, a traditional orange liqueur.
• Bitterballen, crispy fried meat croquettes with mustard.

What to do

• Dress in orange to fit in with the crowd.
• Hunt for bargains at the vrijmarkt.
• Join a canal-side party or rent a boat.

💡 Tip: Trains from Schiphol are crowded, and some exits of Centraal station may close. Walk or cycle, and book accommodation early.