Why go
King's Day brings the vrijmarkt, a free market of informal street stalls, and orange-clad celebrations into the city. Prinsjesdag connects the royal procession with the opening of the parliamentary year. Vlaggetjesdag in Scheveningen draws on the fishing port's herring tradition. These are different experiences, so choose the one whose setting matters most to you.
The full story
On King's Day, the vrijmarkt gives streets and squares over to informal selling, including children's stalls. The preceding evening is known locally as Koningnach. Prinsjesdag, or Prince's Day, opens the parliamentary year with a royal speech. Its route, venue and viewing arrangements can change, so check the Royal House's current programme before choosing a spot. The enduring tradition is the public procession and parliamentary opening. At the coast, Vlaggetjesdag celebrates the arrival of the new herring season in Scheveningen and recalls its fishing heritage. Past Tong Tong Fair editions expressed the city's Indo cultural connections; confirm any future edition before planning around the festival. These traditions offer different views of civic life, from royal ceremony to coastal trade and cultural exchange. Choose the setting that interests you, then check current dates and access.
Useful to know
- Check the current official programme before planning around a procession or festival.
- For Prinsjesdag, choose a viewing area from the published route before heading into the centre.
- For Vlaggetjesdag, plan around Scheveningen rather than the government quarter.