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We love the Dutch for their open, party-loving culture, and this season’s upcoming events will definitely make your Amsterdam visit twice as fun: 1.The Last Queen’s Day (April 30) – The Queen’s birthday is the most popular and colorful holiday in the Netherlands, and this year will be the last for the present Queen Beatrix, who is about to relinquish her crown. Every year, millions of locals and tourists alike flock to the capital Amsterdam for the biggest street parties, performances, markets, and government perks.
Amsterdam Canal Houses Take advantage of this day to rent Amsterdam apartments when the city is tax-free and all businesses are unregulated. Even children will enjoy at the Vondlepark designated for kids’ activities like face-painting, music, rides, story-telling, and craft workshops. Join the bright crowd who make an effort to dress in the Royal color orange, dye their hair orange, paint their face orange, drink oranje bitter (alcohol made from orange), and even serve orange-flavored dishes. 2. The Royal Crowning and Wedding – The whole world will watch as Prince Willem-Alexander becomes the nation’s first king since 1890, marking the 200th anniversary of the foundation of the Kingdom of the Netherlands. Witness rare musical performances fit for a king while waiting for the Royal entourage. Better yet, greet the Royal couple at the Royal boat parade especially organized for the public. Be amazed by more spectacular performances at the King’s Night, a celebration of sports, music, art, and youth. 3. City-wide sale! – The Dutch have this tradition of trading their old goods and showcasing themed products on this day, so for the shopaholics it’s also a tax-free , bargain day! The generous Queen even joins this bargaining tradition like last time when she bought a second-hand lamp from the locals. At the Vondlepark, children set up market stalls to trade their old toys and showcase their talents. 4.Bredeweg Festival – The night before Queen’s day, enjoy a sample of classical street opera, circus, and exhibitions to kickstart the bigger event. Whatever your taste is, the Bredeweg Theater will feature everything from Latin, jazz, and folk music to popular rockbands. 5. Gay Day – Queen’s day is also gay and lesbians’ day, especially at the Reguliersdwaarsstraat street party where gay-friendly bars are located. Expect a colorful parade of creative costumes and amusing performances from different cultures. Amsterdam usually turns into one huge rock concert on Queen’s day, and now with the addition of a King’s day, one could only imagine how jam-packed the city will be. To avoid hassles, check out accommodations early at shortstay-apartment.com |
