Kings Day in Amsterdam 2025: Complete Guide for Visitors

Kings Day in Amsterdam 2025 falls on Sunday, April 27, 2025. This vibrant national holiday celebrates the Dutch monarch’s birthday with citywide festivities, turning Amsterdam into one massive street party with orange-clad revelers, canal boat parties, and bustling street markets.

What is Kings Day in Amsterdam?

Kings Day (Koningsdag) is the Netherlands’ biggest national celebration, honoring the birthday of King Willem-Alexander. Since its inception as “Queens Day” in 1885, this festive tradition has evolved into the Dutch cultural phenomenon we know today.

In 2025, Amsterdam will mark its 11th celebration of Kings Day (rather than Queens Day), following King Willem-Alexander’s coronation in 2013. The celebration combines patriotic pride with the Dutch love for gezelligheid (coziness and togetherness), creating an unforgettable atmosphere throughout the capital.

Key Details for Kings Day in Amsterdam 2025

Information	Details
Date	Sunday, April 27, 2025
Official Hours	6:00 AM to 8:00 PM citywide (varies by venue)
Main Locations	Entire city center, particularly Vondelpark, Jordaan, Westerpark
Expected Attendance	Over 1 million visitors
Vrijmarkt (Free Market) Hours	6:00 AM to 8:00 PM
Evening Parties	8:00 PM to 3:00 AM (requires separate tickets)
Weather Expectation	Average 13°C (55°F), prepare for possible rain
Dress Code	Orange! (The more, the better)

Kings Day Amsterdam 2025 Events and Activities

The 2025 celebration promises to be especially vibrant as it falls on a Sunday, allowing for extended festivities throughout the weekend. The city transforms with various activities:

Vrijmarkt (Free Market)

The famous vrijmarkt allows anyone to sell goods without a permit. In 2025, the market will operate from 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM, with prime spots in the Jordaan and De Pijp neighborhoods. For families, Vondelpark hosts a children’s market from 9:00 AM.

Canal Festivities

The Amsterdam canals become packed with boats celebrating Kings Day. In 2025, the official boat parade will start at 2:00 PM on the Amstel River, while thousands of private vessels fill every waterway with music and revelry.

According to the Amsterdam Tourism Board, over 30 designated entry points will be available for private boats, with strict capacity limits enforced.

Street Parties and Festivals

Major Kings Day festivals will take place across Amsterdam:

Festival	Location	Hours	Ticket Price (2025)
Kingsland Festival	RAI Amsterdam	12:00 PM – 11:00 PM	€45.50 – €89.00
Oranjebloesem	Olympisch Stadion	12:00 PM – 11:00 PM	€39.50 – €75.00
Loveland van Oranje	Meerpark	11:00 AM – 11:00 PM	€42.50 – €79.50
Kings Day Festival	NDSM Wharf	12:00 PM – 10:00 PM	€37.50 – €65.00

Advance purchase through official websites is strongly recommended as these events typically sell out by early April.

Transportation During Kings Day Amsterdam 2025

IL GVB (Amsterdam’s public transport company) operates modified schedules on Kings Day, with many central tram routes diverted or suspended. For Kings Day 2025, special “Orange” tickets will be available, offering unlimited travel for €10.

Key transportation notes:

Central Amsterdam becomes largely pedestrianized
Metro lines run extended hours but skip several central stations
Ferry services across the IJ increase frequency
Consider using NS (Dutch Railways) to reach Amsterdam, as parking is virtually impossible

Bag Policy for Kings Day 2025

Amsterdam implements special security measures during Kings Day to ensure safety amid the large crowds:

Large bags and backpacks (exceeding 40×30×20 cm) are prohibited in crowded areas
Security checkpoints will be established at entry points to major venues
Glass containers are banned throughout the central city
All bags are subject to search by security personnel
Unattended items will be immediately removed

Visitors are strongly advised to travel light during Kings Day festivities, as storage options within the event areas are extremely limited.

Kings Day in Amsterdam FAQs

What should I wear for Kings Day in Amsterdam?

Dress in orange! The more orange, the better – from t-shirts to tutus, wigs, and face paint. The tradition honors the royal House of Orange-Nassau. Also, wear comfortable shoes as you’ll likely be walking extensively.

Is Kings Day suitable for families with children?

Yes, particularly in the morning hours. Vondelpark hosts a dedicated children’s market and family-friendly activities from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM. The atmosphere becomes more adult-oriented as the day progresses.

Are shops and museums open during Kings Day?

Most major museums are open but with adjusted hours. The Rijksmuseum and Van Gogh Museum will open from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Most retail shops remain closed, while restaurants and cafes operate with special Kings Day menus.

How early should I arrive in Amsterdam for Kings Day?

For the full experience, arrive at least one day before. The night before Kings Day (Kings Night) features its own celebrations. Hotel prices increase substantially, with many venues fully booked by January.

Can I buy alcohol during Kings Day?

Yes, but with restrictions. Alcohol sales are permitted at licensed venues and designated areas. Open containers are allowed in most public spaces, but glass bottles are prohibited in central districts.

Luggage Storage Solution for Kings Day Visitors

With central Amsterdam’s strict bag policies and crowded conditions during Kings Day 2025, finding a secure place for your belongings is essential for enjoying the festivities worry-free.

Radical Storage offers the perfect solution with 25+ luggage storage locations throughout Amsterdam, conveniently positioned near major transportation hubs and Kings Day hotspots. For just €5 per bag per day (regardless of size or weight), visitors can safely store their belongings while exploring the orange-filled celebrations.

Radical Storage partners with local businesses (called “Angels”) to provide secure, verified storage points near Amsterdam Centraal Station, Dam Square, and other key areas. Each item is covered by a €3,000 guarantee, giving you peace of mind as you navigate the festivities.

Simply download the Radical Storage app to find and book a convenient location in seconds – no reservations or long lines necessary. With over 6,000 five-star reviews from visitors to Amsterdam, this affordable service ensures you can fully immerse yourself in the Kings Day experience without being weighed down by bags or luggage.

Visit Radical Storage to secure your storage spot before joining Amsterdam’s biggest party of the year.