King's Day 2026: 7 ways to celebrate without the crowds
Say it with an experience! Discover the best surprises for King's Day that go beyond flea markets and beer.
King's Day. The day when all of the Netherlands turns orange, flea markets overflow and you have a beer in your hand by 10 AM. Fun? Absolutely. But after a few years of the same party, the magic starts to fade a little.
Why do something different this year?
Let's be honest: you know the flea market in your own neighborhood by now. The crowds in Amsterdam are legendary, but also exhausting. This year it's time for a King's Day that you'll actually remember.
1. Escape to a smaller city
While Amsterdam, Utrecht and Rotterdam are flooded, there are many smaller cities with a much more relaxed King's Day program. Think of Haarlem, Delft or Amersfoort. Same orange atmosphere, but without queuing an hour for the toilet.
2. Book a surprise outing
What if someone else arranges the outing for you? A surprise day with friends or your partner, where you only find out on the day itself what you're going to do. The only thing you know: it fits you, and it's not a flea market.
3. Boat trip
The canals of Amsterdam, Utrecht or Leiden are a party in themselves on King's Day. Rent a boat, pack the picnic (don't forget orange pastries) and sail past all the celebrating people. You're in the middle of the action, but have your own spot.
4. King's Day brunch with friends
Instead of pushing through crowds all day: organize an extensive brunch. Invite your friends, make it an orange theme and enjoy each other's company. You can always hit the streets afterwards.
5. Escape room in orange
Many escape rooms have special King's Day editions. Perfect activity for a group of friends who want to do something active, but don't necessarily want to stand in the crowds.
6. Day in nature
While the cities party, the forests and beaches are wonderfully quiet. Take your bike or car, drive to the Veluwe, the beach or the Biesbosch and enjoy a free day in nature. Bring an orange picnic for the feeling.
7. Festival outside the city
There are King's Day festivals all over the Netherlands, from small and intimate to large and spectacular. Check what's happening in your region — often the festivals just outside the big cities are much more accessible.
It's about the feeling
Celebrating King's Day doesn't have to mean squeezing through crowds. It's about being together, wearing orange (or not) and enjoying a free day. How you fill that in? Completely up to you. 🧡