How to Celebrate King's Day in Rotterdam

How to Celebrate King’s Day in Rotterdam

Participate in the biggest party in the Netherlands with our guide on How to Celebrate King’s Day in Rotterdam!

King’s Day is a holiday in The Netherlands on the 27th of April, marking King Willem-Alexander’s birthday. Celebrations start the night before as people deck themselves out in orange and hit the streets and canals. Even the royal family comes out to celebrate with Dutch citizens! And while the main party happens in アムステルダム, Rotterdam hosts the second biggest party in the country. Planning on taking part in the celebrations? Check out our guide on How to Celebrate King’s Day in Rotterdam!

How to Celebrate King’s Day in Rotterdam

King’s Night (Nacht van Oranje)

The celebrations kick off the night before, and is known as King’s Night (Nacht van Oranje). While we encourage you to participate, make sure you pace yourself though so you can enjoy the next day!

Nacht van Oranje (Orange Night) is a big night for Dutch music, with parties and live shows all over the city. The biggest event is TIKTAK, which is a great option to celebrate King’s Day in Rotterdam if you’re into Dutch house music. It’s held at Maassilo, which is an ultra cool space and a former factory.

If this isn’t your kind of thing, then simply head to Witte de Withstraat where you’ll find plenty of bars and clubs brimming with excitement for the Dutch holiday. You won’t be able to escape the party!

King’s Night at Hostel ROOM

King’s Day

Celebrations for King’s Day in Rotterdam starts early at 6am on April 27th, and the party goes all day and night. The first rule of thumb is to make sure you wear orange as its the national colour and is worn by everyone on the day. And if you plan on participating the night before, it might be a good idea to have 2 days worth of orange attire. The celebrations aren’t just about drinking and partying; you can participate in markets, funfairs, and more to celebrate King’s Day in Rotterdam.

How to Celebrate King’s Day in Rotterdam

Flea Markets (Vrije Markts)

One of the most popular events on King’s Day in Rotterdam are the flea markets. Dutch people come out to sell items, such as clothing, trinkets, food, and drinks. The best ones are at Liskwartier, Coolsingel and on the Binnenrotte, and of course you can expect to do some bartering on the prices! After all, that’s part of the fun at the flea market. Also, make sure you bring some cash and a tote bag in case anything catches your eye!

Funfairs

If you’re coming to celebrate King’s Day in Rotterdam with your family, there are loads of for you! From face painting, to rides, games, and more, you’ll find plenty of family friendly ways to spend your day. Be sure to check out the funfairs at Liskwartier for Liskids, or head to the Royal Roller Disco at Deliplein.

Music Events

Rotterdam hosts the Oranjebitter Festival at Het Park, with a massive musical line up of Dutch DJs and funfair. There’s also the Code Orange Festival in the city centre for those who like a carnival atmosphere, but please note you have to buy tickets first!

、 Kralinsge Bos Festival has 6 stages and pumps out music all night in the nearby forest! And finally, you can also check out the Kingsland Festival if you like house, techno, and hardstyle. The Dutch really take their King’s Day celebrations seriously!

Oranjebitter Fest

Where to Stay in Rotterdam

Our top recommendation in Rotterdam is Hostel ROOM. No matter your travel style, there’s a place for you at Hostel ROOM. With clean and comfortable rooms, a great in-house bar, daily activities, and friendly staff, you’ll feel at home here. And they even have their own King’s Day celebrations, so make sure you don’t leave your booking until the last minute!