Amsterdam will turn into the world's biggest street party during King's Day 2025, drawing 250,000 visitors to the city. There's a twist this year, celebrations will happen on April 26 instead of 27th - whenever King's Day falls on a Sunday it is moved to Saturday instead.
This massive orange themed festival is far from a typical celebration. It's the largest open air event in Amsterdam, filling the streets with vibrant flea markets, the canals with party boats, and traditional Dutch games. You can explore the unregulated street sales, enjoy the family-friendly vibes in Vondelpark, or dance the night away at the legendary King's Night parties. With these insider tips, you'll be ready to celebrate like a true Amsterdammer.
The orange Takeover: What Makes King's Day Special
"The Princes of the House of Orange on Horseback"
Attributed to an anonymous Dutch painter, active in the early 17th century. It’s a collective portrait of members of the House of Orange-Nassau, the ruling family of the Dutch Republic.
William of Orange
known as William the Silent (Willem van Oranje), who played a central role in the Dutch Revolt against Spanish rule in the 16th century and became the founding father of the Netherlands.
Beatrix Wilhelmina Armgard
The Queen of the Netherlands from 1980 to 2013
The Dutch Royal Family
King Willem-Alexander, Queen Máxima Zorreguieta Cerruti, Catharina-Amalia (Princess of Orange) – the future queen, Princess Alexia, Princess Ariane.
Have you ever wondered why the Netherlands becomes a sea of orange during King's Day? The answer comes from the Dutch royal family's rich history. They are officially known as the House of Orange Nassau. Their name comes from the principality of Orange in southern France, which became part of Dutch royal heritage through marriage and inheritance in the 16th century. The Dutch people's love for the color orange started with William I of Orange. He led the Dutch revolt against Spanish rule during the Eighty Years’ War (1568-1648) that ended up bringing Dutch independence. People lovingly called him "Father of the Fatherland", and William's legacy made orange a powerful symbol of national pride.
The celebration began as “Prinsessedag” (Princess's Day) in 1885 and evolved through different monarch's reigns. The orange spirit stays strong through all these years, a bright symbol of the lasting connection between the Dutch people and their royal family.
During King's Day, you'll see what Dutch people call “oranjegekte” or “orange madness". This celebration turns Amsterdam's streets, canals, and buildings into an orange wonderland. The entire country turns orange. People wear orange shirts, wigs, face paint, some even dye their hair. It's all about embracing the vibrant energy of the day. Dutch brands get in on the fun too, releasing limited edition orange packaged products. And the iconic Dutch pastry tampouce gets a festive upgrade with bright orange icing, a must try during the celebrations.
Neighborhood Secrets: Where Locals Actually Celebrate
The city center of Amsterdam gets packed with tourists during King's Day 2025, but there can be better spots to celebrate. Let us share some hidden gems.
The Jordaan district gives you Amsterdam's most authentic King's Day experience. This charming neighborhood transforms its narrow canals and traditional architecture into a lively hub of street celebrations and bustling flea markets. The area in and around Westestraat gets pretty lively and crowded, while Westerpark offers a more relaxed setting.
Café Nol - Westerstraat 109, 1015 LX Amsterdam, Netherlands
Café Thijssen
Café Thijssen - Brouwersgracht 107, 1015 GD Amsterdam, Netherlands
De Pijp draws the locals who want a more relaxed yet festive atmosphere. You'll see this colorful area buzzing with indie cafés and energetic bars. The street parties at Marie Heinekenplein are fantastic, and spots like De Tulp serve delicious Asian inspired shared plates in a perfect orange vibe. If you walk from De Pijp towards the city center, Amstelveld is a great spot to stop by - this charming square that comes alive with street parties and live music.
For a family-friendly experience, head to Vondelpark, which transforms into a special children's market from 9am to 8pm where kids can sell their toys or show off their talents.
One of the best ways to celebrate like a local is to join the famous canal festivities. Many Amsterdammers skip the crowded streets and take to the water instead. These boat parties often include unlimited drinks, while expert captains guide you through the festive canals.
Local neighborhoods have smaller crowds than central spots and can offer a more relaxing experience, each neighborhood will give you a different taste of the King's Day spirit. One thing you'll find almost everywhere are the street markets - this is the only day where anyone can set up shop to sell (almost) everything. Expect to see the markets throughout the whole day (they are allowed between 6 am and 8 pm), but the morning is a better time to visit.
Navigate Like a Pro: Beating the Crowds
You'll need to come prepared to navigate through half a million orange clad party people if you want to enjoy King's day 2025. Here's how to beat the crowds and move around Amsterdam like a local.
Getting Around
Cars and taxis won't help you get around on King's Day. The city center becomes completely car free from 7:30 AM to about 11:00 PM. Taxis and most standard taxi stands in the center don't operate either.
The metro will be your best friend. Busses and trams run on special routes that only reach the outskirts of the city center. The underground metro network keeps running with some changes, for example the Amstelveenseweg station will be closed as of 6pm. For up to date information, be sure to check the local public transportation company, GVB.
Train travelers should know that Dutch railways run on a special “Oranjedienstregeling”(Orange timetable) with extra and longer trains. In spite of that, you should give yourself extra travel time since the carriages will be packed all day.
Bathroom Battle Plan
Finding a toilet on King's Day can turn into quite an adventure. The city helps by setting up about 350 public toilets across Amsterdam. This includes 180 urinals and 140 seated toilets. Special flags and banners will point you to these facilities.
Smart locals make some extra cash by opening their bathrooms to the public for a small fee (usually €1). This comes in handy in busy areas like the Jordaan, where women might wait up to an hour. It's worth mentioning that public urination will cost you a €140 fine!
Timing & Tactics
Getting there early is a vital part of the plan, the street market stalls start running low by mid afternoon. On top of that, you should set clear meeting points with friends because phone networks can fail in big crowds.
The packed canals and Jordaan might get too much. You can escape to Voldelpark, Old-West, and Westerpark for a more relaxed vibe. Several museums stay open too, including the Anne Frank House, Van Gogh Museum, Stedelijk Museum and Rijksmuseum, but be sure to book your tickets in advance for a stress free experience.
Last but not least, bring cash! Most street market stalls only take physical money. Being prepared makes the difference between smooth sailing and getting stuck in orange chaos!
Amsterdam's Most Magical Celebration
King's Day fills the city with orange clad crowds, bustling markets, and canal parties that create lasting memories. The 2025 celebration falls on a Saturday, which adds extra excitement to this cherished tradition.
My years of King's Day celebrations have taught me that good planning makes the experience special. Keep cash handy for unique flea market treasures, check out your neighborhood spots in advance, and know your metro routes. The true spirit of “oranjegekte” awaits. Put on orange clothing and celebrate like Amsterdammers!
King's Day 2025 is your chance to dive into one of the most unforgettable Dutch celebrations. With these local tips, you'll navigate the orange madness like a pro and make memories that stick.
If you're looking to go beyond the basics and find the best events happening across the city, from boat parties to hidden block jams, download our app and stay tuned to our website. We've curated a full list of King's Day and King's Night events.
With Outhere, you'll have the full celebration in your pocket, personalized to your vibe, your location and your interests. Don't miss a moment. Orange is the new out there.
