King’s Day 2025 in Arnhem
Everything about King’s Night and King’s Day 2025 in Arnhem + background information about the origins of this holiday.
The color orange will dominate again on April 26 and 27, 2025 during King’s Night and King’s Day in Arnhem. Whether you like dancing to music, strolling along flea markets, or are looking for a fun outing with the kids: Arnhem offers something for everyone. In this blog you can read what there is to do, including times, locations, tips for families and background information about the origins of King’s Day.
🎉 King’s Night 2025 in Arnhem
Date: Friday evening, April 25, 2025
Locations: Throughout the city center
Popular events on King’s Night:
Korenmarkt: Live music on various stages with DJs, cover bands and party music.
Jansplein: Artists and DJs in the open air, free admission.
Rozetplein & Nieuwe Plein: Small stages and food trucks.
Most events start around 8:00 PM and continue until the early hours.
Tip: Keep an eye on the websites of the locations or the Facebook event of Koningsdag Arnhem for the full program and any last-minute changes.
đź‘‘ King’s Day 2025 – Saturday April 26
King’s Day in Arnhem is a celebration for all ages. The day starts early with flea markets and ends with music performances and festivals in the city.
🛍️ Flea markets in Arnhem
Arnhem is known for its friendly flea markets. Here you can lay out a blanket or rummage through second-hand treasures.
Leoninusstraat Koningsmarkt
Time: 10:00 – 16:00
What: Second-hand items, homemade food (satay, pancakes), music
Organization: Neighborhood association
Kleedjesmarkt Presikhaaf
Time: 09:00 – 17:00
Location: Winkelcentrum Presikhaaf
Extras: Bouncy castle, old Dutch games, music
Vrijmarkt Schaarsbergen
Time: 13:00 – 17:30
Location: Around the village church at Kemperbergerweg 804
What: 25 stalls, rug market and live music
Vrijmarkt Elderveld
Location: Around sports center Elderveld
What: Free market with children’s games and food/drinks
👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Activities for Kids
In addition to flea markets, there is also plenty to do for children:
- Old Dutch games (Presikhaaf, Schaarsbergen, Elderveld)
- Bouncy castles and face painting
- Live performances and children’s theatre on various squares
🎶 Parties & Music
In addition to the flea markets, there are also several parties and music events on King’s Day:
Korenmarkt Live: Pop and party music by local and national artists
Musispark Festival: Open-air music festival at Musis Sacrum
Rozetplein: DJs, food trucks and a cozy atmosphere
Check www.koningsdag-arnhem.nl for the full program.
📜 The Origins of King’s Day
The origin of King’s Day dates back to 1885, when Princess’s Day was first celebrated on August 31st, the fifth birthday of Princess Wilhelmina. It was an initiative of the liberal party, intended to promote national unity during a time of political tension. Princess’s Day was mainly celebrated with children’s games, flag displays, and singing.
👑 From Princess’s Day to Queen’s Day
When Wilhelmina became queen in 1890, Princess’s Day was renamed Queen’s Day, though the date remained August 31st—her birthday.
In 1948, Queen Juliana succeeded her mother Wilhelmina. She moved Queen’s Day to her own birthday, April 30th, and turned it into a national celebration. People were allowed to visit Soestdijk Palace, where the royal family received flowers, gifts, and handshakes from citizens. This format was cherished for many years.
🎉 Queen Beatrix and a New Approach
When Beatrix became queen in 1980, she decided to keep Queen’s Day on April 30th as a tribute to her mother Juliana (since Beatrix’s birthday is on January 31st—right in the middle of winter).
However, she changed the way the day was celebrated. Instead of a palace reception, she and her family visited two Dutch towns each year, where performances and local traditions were at the heart of the festivities. This gave the day a more lively and festive feel throughout the country.
🧡 From Queen’s Day to King’s Day
When Willem-Alexander was inaugurated as king on April 30th, 2013, Queen’s Day was officially renamed King’s Day. His birthday is on April 27th, and since 2014 the holiday has been celebrated on that date (unless it falls on a Sunday, then it’s celebrated on April 26th).
📌 What Makes King’s Day Unique?
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Free markets: Across the country, people are allowed to sell goods on the street without a permit.
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Orange craze: People wear orange clothing, paint their faces, and decorate houses and streets in the royal color.
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Parties and festivals: Cities host performances, festivals, kids’ activities, and more.
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Royal visit: Each year, the royal family visits a different town for performances and to meet the public. This year, the royal family will visit Doetinchem.
Discover Arnhem with our unique city walk!
Are you looking for an inspiring city walk in Arnhem? Be surprised by the rich history and impressive sights of this beautiful city. During our guided walking tour you will visit iconic places such as the Eusebius Church, learn all about the Battle of Arnhem and enjoy the hidden gems that Arnhem has to offer.
Choose a walk with an experienced guide who takes you through the highlights of Arnhem or go independently on one of our carefully composed selfguided walking routes in Arnhem. Ideal for lovers of culture, history and unique experiences.
Book your guided walk in Arnhem today or discover our Arnhem walking route in the webshop. A perfect activity for a day out, full of inspiration and fun.
Walk, discover and let Arnhem come to life!
Spending a weekend in Arnhem? Such a good idea!
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