Public holiday in Netherlands
King's Day in Netherlands
Monday, April 27, 2026
Nationwide public holiday
King's Birthday is a nationwide public holiday in the Netherlands that marks the birthday of King Willem-Alexander. It is one of the country’s most visible annual celebrations, with public events and street activities across the country.
About King's Day in Netherlands
In the Netherlands, King's Birthday is the national day associated with the reigning monarch and is observed nationwide as a public holiday. It is widely recognized as a day for outdoor festivities, informal gatherings and events in towns and cities across the country. The holiday also gives the Dutch calendar a clear royal marker in spring, separate from other national commemorations.
History
The holiday was originally tied to the birthday of the Dutch monarch and changed name as the reigning sovereign changed. It became known as King's Birthday after Willem-Alexander became king, reflecting the transition from Queen's Day to the current royal celebration.
Traditions
A common feature of the day is wearing orange, the colour associated with the Dutch royal family. Street markets and sales are widely linked to the holiday, and many people use the day for informal celebrations in public spaces.
How King's Day is celebrated in Netherlands
Across the Netherlands, the day is marked by public festivities, local events and widespread street activity. In many places, people gather outdoors, browse markets and join neighbourhood celebrations rather than following a formal program.
Interesting facts
The holiday is linked to the Dutch Royal House through the name Orange, which explains why orange is such a visible colour on the day. It remains a nationwide public holiday in the Netherlands rather than a regional observance.
Dates in published calendars
Sources and verification
- 2026: Government of the Netherlands · checked 20 Oct 2026
- 2027: Government of the Netherlands · checked 20 Oct 2026
Import sources
- Generic ICS feed
An import is not an independent verification.