23/04/2026
🇳🇱 Koningsdag 2026 in Dokkum – King’s Day in Friesland
In 2026, Koningsdag will be extra special. Instead of taking place in a major city like Amsterdam, the main national celebration will be hosted in the historic Frisian town of Dokkum.
This annual Dutch holiday celebrates the birthday of King Willem-Alexander, and every year the royal family visits a different city. On April 27, 2026, Dokkum will be at the heart of the festivities, welcoming the King, Queen Máxima, and the rest of the royal family as they celebrate his 59th birthday.
🎉 More than just one day
The celebrations won’t be limited to April 27. Dokkum will be buzzing with events for four days in a row:
• April 24–27, 2026
• Live music, cultural performances, and entertainment throughout the city
• A special program showcasing Dokkum and the wider Friesland region to the entire country (and beyond)
Expect a strong Frisian identity throughout the celebrations. Plans include a royal bus escorted by eight traditional Frisian horses, and over 80 boats in the canals transformed into floating stages. Local traditions and sports like kaatsen, fierljeppen, and the legendary Elfstedentocht will also be highlighted.
In short, the city will be in full celebration mode for several days straight.
👑 A meaningful royal visit
This will be the first time in 18 years that Friesland hosts Koningsdag. The last visit was in 2008, when the royal family celebrated in Franeker and Makkum. Now, it’s Dokkum’s turn.
Mayor Johannes Kramer has described the occasion as a great honor and recognition for everyone who has contributed to the development of the city and region.
📍 What to expect on April 27 in Dokkum
The entire city will transform into one big celebration:
• A royal route through the city
• Music and cultural performances
• Participation from local schools and organizations
• A festive atmosphere everywhere you go
• Live national broadcast on NOS
🛍️ Vrijmarkt across the Netherlands
One of the most unique traditions of Koningsdag is the vrijmarkt (free market). Across the entire country:
• People sell second-hand items on the streets without needing permits
• Parks and squares turn into massive open-air markets
• Both kids and adults take part
• The vibe is lively, chaotic, and full of fun
⚠️ Planning to visit Dokkum? Keep this in mind:
• Streets in the city center will likely be closed
• Parking will be very limited (especially in the center)
• Expect traffic disruptions and possible changes to public transport schedules
• Trains and buses will be crowded
• Best option: arrive early and explore on foot
As always, every city in the Netherlands celebrates Koningsdag in its own way, so it’s worth checking what’s happening in your local area too.
If you want to learn more about this celebration, search for “Koningsdag” in groups or online—you’ll find plenty of useful info and inspiration.
🎈 Wishing everyone a wonderful Keningsdei!
Lang leve de koning! 👑