King's Day 2025: Tips to make it an unforgettable celebration

Yes, King’s Day is an officially recognized national holiday in the Netherlands. However, be aware that this doesn’t automatically mean everyone gets the day off. Whether or not you’ll be working on King’s Day depends on your employment contract or collective labor agreement. So, it’s a good idea to double-check your schedule before pulling out your orange outfit.

In 2025, King’s Day will fall on Saturday, April 26. For most people, this means no school or work, giving you a free day right in the middle of the weekend. How convenient, right?

On April 26, the whole of the Netherlands turns orange. From large cities to small villages, celebrations happen everywhere. Each city celebrates in its own way—some with massive festivals, others with traditional street markets. In 2025, the royal family will visit Emmen, making the celebrations there even more special.

If you’re planning to shop or grab some last-minute groceries on King’s Day, you should check the store hours in advance. Whether stores are open and for how long varies by city and shop. Large chains in city centers often stay open but with adjusted hours. Supermarkets are typically open for a few hours as well. If you prefer shopping to partying at an orange-themed festival, head to the center of Rotterdam. There, stores are usually open on King’s Day, something that’s not guaranteed in every city.

There are countless ways to celebrate King’s Day. Whether you’re a fan of the crowds or prefer soaking in the atmosphere in peace, there’s something for everyone. Here are some ideas to help you make the most of April 26:

• Explore your city like a tourist
  This might be the most fun way to celebrate—just stroll through your own neighborhood like you’re a tourist. Visit streets you’d normally never go to, try a King’s Day snack from a food truck, or discover a hidden celebration just around the corner.
   
• Get involved in the flea market
  It’s the perfect opportunity to declutter your attic and give your old things a second life. Lay out your old towels, CDs, and half-broken toasters on a blanket, and who knows... you might not get rich, but you’ll definitely have some great stories to tell.
   
• Attend a festival
  For dance lovers, there are plenty of festivals, ranging from huge ones in Amsterdam to smaller, more intimate gatherings. Expect lots of orange, confetti, and great music. Tickets often sell out quickly, so it’s wise to grab them early.
   
• Prefer to stay at home? Organize an orange-themed brunch
  Why wait until evening? Kick off your day with an orange-themed brunch: think carrot cake, orange juice, croissants with orange jam, and, of course, tompouce pastries. Add a playlist of Dutch classics, and you’ve got the perfect atmosphere at home. And don’t forget to go all-out with your orange outfit—whoever looks the most over-the-top wins!
   
• Relax in the park
  Not in the mood for crowds and blessed with sunshine? Gather your friends, throw a blanket on the grass, pack a cooler, and just relax. Chances are, you’ll still find yourself in the middle of a spontaneous party—but without the pressure.
   
• Take the kids out
  If you’re celebrating with kids, King’s Day is perfect for fun children’s activities like face painting, games, or even a kids’ flea market. Many cities set up special areas where the little ones can go wild.

Not feeling the vibe of your own city? Why not make a mini-vacation out of it? Spend a night or a weekend in a fun city, enjoy the festivities, and explore at a more peaceful time after the excitement dies down. The best part: with a Hotelgiftcard, you can choose exactly where you want to stay. Need some inspiration? We’ve rounded up the best cities to visit during King’s Day.

Order your Hotelgiftcard now

Hotelgiftcard is the number one hotel voucher and the ultimate travel gift in the Netherlands. The recipient can choose from over 600,000 accommodations worldwide! Plus, Hotelgiftcard isn’t just for hotel stays. It can also be used at many charming bed and breakfasts and holiday parks. The recipient gets to decide what kind of accommodation and where to stay. With Hotelgiftcard, you’re not just giving a gift—you’re giving an unforgettable experience!

• Hotel voucher, holiday park voucher, and B&B voucher all in one
• Perfect for a night away, a weekend trip, or a vacation
• Usable at over 600,000 accommodations worldwide
• Choose a value between €10 and €500
• Pick a festive gift box and/or a bottle of wine
• Add a personal message
• Available as a digital Hotelgiftcard