King’s Day is a national holiday in the Netherlands celebrated in honor of King Willem-Alexander’s birthday. On this day, Amsterdam transforms into a sea of orange, with people from all over the country coming to the city to celebrate. On April 26th, 2025 (as the 27th falls on a Sunday), King’s Day in Amsterdam will once again be a great spectacle. It’s one of the best times to visit Amsterdam for a city trip!
Orange or Not: What to Wear for King’s Day in Amsterdam 2025?
On King’s Day in the Netherlands in 2025, people often wear orange clothing or accessories, as orange is the color of the royal family. However, it is not mandatory, and you can wear other colors if you prefer. Wearing traditional Dutch clothing, such as clogs and folk costumes, is also popular in some areas during King’s Day. In short, wear what you like and feel comfortable in!
Festivals King’s Day Amsterdam 2025
On King’s Day in Amsterdam, many festivals and parties take place throughout the city. Here is an overview of some confirmed events:
- Kingsland Festival: In 2025, this iconic festival moves from the RAI to the Olympic Stadium. Expect performances by Lil Kleine, Ronnie Flex, La Fuente, and more. The event runs from 12:00 to 20:00.
- Nachtbloesem: A brand-new night festival replacing Oranjebloesem this year. It takes place on April 26th from 20:00 to 05:00 at locations including IJland and Multipla. Expect house, techno, and electronic vibes.
- Loveland presents BURST: A new concept by Loveland in Meerpark, offering one large stage with acts like Marlon Hoffstadt, Chris Stussy, and Sandrien b2b Bella.
- Urban Music Legends Festival: Returns in 2025 at Rhônepark near Sloterdijk, focused on urban music including hip-hop, R&B, and Afrobeat. Line-up to be announced.
- NDSM Vrijhaven: A large, free event at NDSM wharf with live music, a huge children’s flea market, food trucks, workshops, and more. Great for families and locals alike.
Stages and Local Events Across the City
Stages and pop-up celebrations are organized all around Amsterdam. NDSM Vrijhaven remains a highlight with its free entry and broad programming. Other notable events include:
- Bredeweg Festival: A cultural street festival in Amsterdam East, known for theatre, live music, and children’s games.
- F*ck de Koningsdag: An alternative house music event on Albert Cuypstraat, featuring local DJs.
The festivities traditionally kick off the evening before with King’s Night (Friday, April 25th), with packed bars and music throughout the streets.
Cafés Join the Festivities!
Throughout King’s Night and King’s Day, many bars across Amsterdam host their own special celebrations. Notable venues include:
- The Blaffende Vis
- Café Nol (a local favorite in the Jordaan)
- Café De Jonge Wees
- Café Restaurant Nieges
- Het Feest van Ome Jan
- Café ‘t Spui-tje
- Café de Ceuvel
- Grand Café 1909
- Café de Zaak
- Pllek
- Eetcafé de Avonden
Pllek, located in Amsterdam North, offers a more relaxed vibe with live bands during the day and DJs in the evening, ideal for escaping the inner-city crowds.
Flea Markets on King’s Day 2025
Flea markets are one of the best traditions of King’s Day. Everyone can sell their goods without a permit. Popular locations:
- Jordaan: The largest flea market with hundreds of stalls and music in the streets.
- Vondelpark: Reserved for children only, perfect for young performers and selling toys/books.
- Apollolaan & Beethovenstraat: Known for high-quality second-hand items.
- Negen Straatjes & Westerstraat: Iconic areas for both locals and tourists to explore bargains and street artists.
Expect spontaneous performances, music, and fun across the city.
Important Info for King’s Day 2025
- Alcohol limits: Max one drink per person allowed in public spaces.
- Retail limits: Stores can only sell one can/bottle of alcohol per customer.
- Train/Station rules: No alcohol allowed in NS trains/stations from April 25th at 19:00 until April 27th at 05:00.
- Public toilets: Over 350 temporary toilets will be installed across the city.
- Fines: Issued for public urination – use designated facilities.
- First aid: Stations are set up at busy locations and festivals.
- Transport: Avoid driving – roads will be closed. Use trains, metro, or ferries. Trams will reroute.
- Safety: Watch out for pickpockets – keep your belongings secure.
Watch out… Pickpockets
Sadly, King’s Day is also a time when pickpockets are active. Keep your belongings safe and avoid keeping valuables in outer pockets.