Description
Dutch King's Day
If you've never experienced it before, Dutch King’s Day in San Francisco is a day when a crowd of over 3,500, young and old, has"orange fever!" You can call it a phenomenal street party at Golden Gate Park. There is a variety of food vendors offering Dutch delicacies such as cheese, pastries, fresh and raw herring, pancakes and waffles prepared Dutch style. We have several food trucks who offer Dutch fresh-baked fries and other Dutch snacks. Among the festivities is a DJ playing the best Dutch music and a silent disco. Another unique aspect of King’s Day is that children (and adults) are allowed to sell or trade their second-hand toys and clothes or to sell their own hand made jewelry and apparel. Kids also play traditional Dutch children’s games.
In the coming days, we look forward to recognizing our initial sponsors and prizes. Thank you for continuing to support Dutch King's Day San Francisco.
Join Us!
King’s Day is the biggest national event in the Netherlands. Everything and everyone turns orange and celebrates. You will find music shows, fairs, flea markets and parties throughout the country.
The Dutch Consulate, together with the local Dutch community is organizing another great celebration of Dutch King's Day in San Francisco! Come join the fun in Golden Gate Park and help celebrate Dutch culture and traditions, including old Dutch kids games, flea market, Dutch food, beer, music & dancing! [ see last year's pictures]
Invite!
Share the Facebook event page and invite your friends!
Ride!
Celebrate Dutch King’s Day with our free group bike ride. Register now! Dress in orange, bring your bicycle, and be ready for a fun ride. It is free to all, ages 12 and up. Sponsored by the Consulate General of the Netherlands and supported by the SF Bicycle Coalition.
10AM: Ride starts at Queen Wilhelmina Windmill (Dutch Windmill) - [ route]
12PM: Ride ends at the Murphy Windmill
Buy (and Sell)!
The "Vrijmarkt" is a Dutch-style flea market where kids sell used toys and games. Send us an e-mail if your family wants to participate.
Volunteer!
Help make it happen and sign up to volunteer for an hour or more!
Wear Orange!
Our national color is orange, because the Dutch monarchy is the "House of Orange." You will see it in abundance on King’s Day. So grab all the orange you have in your closet (dust off that Halloween and Giants gear)!
History
The royal celebrations were first held on 31 August 1885 in honor of the birth of Queen Wilhelmina, and the Queen’s Day (Koninginnedag) tradition was born. After Wilhelmina’s daughter (Juliana) succeeded to the throne in 1949, the day was changed to 30 April in accordance with the new Queen's birthday. When she became queen, the now-Princess Beatrix chose to retain the day in honor of her mother but today, King’s Day is officially celebrated on 27 April (the King’s birthday).
In the Press
For questions or to get involved, contact us!
