Koningsdag or King’s Day is a national holiday in the Netherlands. It’s when we celebrate the birthday of our King, Willem Alexander. It falls on 27th of April every year and is celebrated with parties, and markets and the King and his family visits one or several cities. In 2023, we celebrate both the Kings birthday and his 10th anniversary. On Thursday 27th April, King Willem-Alexander and his family will visit Rotterdam for this extra special celebration. The countdown has begun and many parties and events have already been announced for the King’s arrival. This year, celebrate Kings Day from the comfort of PREMIER SUITES Rotterdam, ideally located to explore the best of the city.
Kings Day 2023
On April 27th every year, The Netherlands turns orange. Traditionally, we encourage the festivities by dressing in orange and partying along streets and canals. Orange is the colour of the Dutch Royal Family, which hails from the House of Orange so don’t leave home without it! Five of the biggest King’s Day celebrations take place in Amsterdam, The Hague, Rotterdam, Utrecht and Eindhoven. The celebration is extra special in Rotterdam this year as the King, Queen Maxima, their daughters and other members of the Royal Family are set to visit our port city for a celebration that won’t be forgotten. The theme of the party is ‘We are all Kings & Queens’ because everyone is special and every head fits a crown!.
King’s Day Events
One of the most popular events during King’s Day in Rotterdam are the flea markets. Dutch people come out in droves to sell clothing, trinkets, food, drinks and much more. You’ll find fresh produce and flowers, homemade crafts and some of the tastiest street food you can imagine. The best and biggest markets are at Liskwartier, Coolsingel and on the Binnenrotte, depending on what you are looking for. You can haggle the price with certain vendors and you’re likely to find a bargain. Regular shops and stores all close on King’s Day to join the celebrations. There are lots of family-friendly events in the city including funfairs at Liskwartier with rides and plenty of fun. There are musical events too like Oranjebitter Festival at Het Park, with a massive musical lineup of Dutch DJs and a funfair.
The Royal Route
An important part of the visit from King Willem-Alexander is the Royal route, the route that he and his family will travel during their visit. The route starts in the Afrikaanderwijk at 11am. After a festive reception, the Royal family will walk to the Maashaven. Once they have arrived at the corner of Maashaven-Noord and Maashaven-Oost, the family gets into water taxis, a Rotterdam mode of transport that should not be missed. They disembark and the walk continues over the Blaak, towards the Laurenskerk. A visit to Markthal will be a part of this route and the walk ends at Binnenrotte. The Royal Family will witness Rotterdam in all its glory enjoying different cultures, art, architecture, history and sharing plans for the future.
Mayor Aboutaleb says: ‘Everything is included in this route to immerse the Royal Family in all the scents, colours and flavours of the city. We will certainly surprise them with a wonderful programme and special encounters.’
The Closing Party
As it is the King’s birthday, we have to have a party! The final stop of the walk is also the location for the biggest birthday party of the year. The festivities kick off at noon and there will be a range of performances, shows, acts and so much more. Which artists will perform is still a secret, you have to turn up to find out. Many events across the city are free but you’ll need tickets for others so plan well. While the flea markets and family events close up for the evening, the party continues in nightclubs, bars and restaurants across the city.
Accommodation for King’s Day can be difficult. Book your stay with plenty of time to spare in PREMIER SUITES Rotterdam. We offer comfortable, flexible accommodation for couples, families, groups and solo explorers. Our location by Central Station is ideal to immerse yourself in the King’s Day Celebrations. Make a weekend of it and explore the very best of Rotterdam, on our doorstep. Book using our website for our best rates, guaranteed.
