Amsterdam’s Queen’s Day celebration sees the Dutch capital transformed into a mass of orange. Both locals and visitors don bright outfits, representing the national colour of the Netherlands. Queen’s Day is celebrated throughout the Netherland’s but is particularly extravagant in Amsterdam, with the city holding an array of parties, in celebration of the public holiday. Wherever your
Amsterdam holiday apartment is based, you are sure not to be too far from the action.
Queen’s Day, or ‘Koninginnedag’ celebrates the birth of the former Queen of the Netherlands – Queen Juliana, and takes places on April 30th. Now succeeded by her daughter, Queen Beatrix, the date of the public holiday remains unchanged, due to the ideal April (rather than January) weather for outdoor celebrations. Queen’s Day dates back as far as 1885, when it first celebrated the birth of Queen Wilhelmina on August 31st. Decades later, and following Queen Juliana’s accession to the throne, the public holiday was changed.
Hundreds of thousands of visitors descend on Amsterdam to take part in the festivities, which is by far the largest city street party in existence. Although celebrations span most of the city, there are hot spots where the atmosphere is electric. Traditionally, the party starts the evening prior to Queen’s Day, and is unsurprisingly referred to as Queen’s Night, or ‘Koninginnenacht’, with almost every bar and nightclub hosting a celebratory event. Over this 2 day event, DJ’s and bands perform in a variety of open-air locations, including Museumplein, Rembrandtplein, and Leidseplein, with many concerts offering free entry.
Cars are restricted from entering the centre of Amsterdam on Queen’s Day, and public transportation is reduced to a public holiday schedule, so be prepared to walk. With so many
Amsterdam holiday apartments located in the heart of the city, you can ensure you stay as close to the festivities as possible. Accommodation is in high demand for Queen’s Day, therefore it is advisable to book your
Amsterdam holiday apartment well in advance.
