Kingsday!
The most celebrated day in the Netherlands, a national holiday, a sea of orange, all to celebrate King William-Alexanders birthday! There's been a long tradition of celebrating the royals birthday (formally Queens day) and is highly anticipated throughout the Netherlands.
There are so many different activities that go on, not only in Amsterdam, but every city in the Netherlands. This can make it fairly hard to decide what to do... I have complied a list of my top 'must dos' on Kingsday.
1. Festivals
Amsterdam is renowned for throwing festivals on this special day, if you want to be part of a sea of orange and good music I would highly recommend either Kingsland or check out NDSM in Amsterdam North (also a kind of city beach, & a great place to visit on a sunny day!).
2. Flea Markets
For one day, on Kingsday, the ban on free trade is lifted and everyone is free to sell whatever they want. For days, and sometimes weeks in advance people mark out their territory on the streets, pavements and canal side. Any empty space on the day is reason for conflict and dispute. Many children also take part in this by selling their old toys or baking cupcakes to satisfy the thousands that flock to Amsterdam.
3. Boat parties
There is one main method of transportation on Kingsday which is by boat. Get a group of friends a boat and some speakers & join the biggest party on the Amsterdam canals.
4. Wear Orange!
The national colour. As long as you where something orange you'll fit right in. During the weeks leading up to Kingsday shops will start selling all kinds of novelty orange Kingsday attire.
5. Explore the City
There's so much going on with a party just around the corner, so leave your bike away from the crowds and get exploring.
Unfortunately I was only able to write this post after my first Kingsday which means anyone reading this has to wait another year before the festivities start again. Kingsday has probably been the highlight of my year here in Amsterdam so far, never have I ever felt more Dutch! It is definitely not to be missed (see you next year Amsterdam).
