Today, April 30, is the national holiday in The Netherlands called Koninginnedag (Queen’s Day). The Dutch have been celebrating Queen’s Day on April 30 since 1949, when the new Queen Juliana ascended the throne (30 April is Juliana’s birthday). When the current Queen Beatrix succeeded Juliana in 1980, she chose to keep Queen’s Day on April 30. Queen’s day is the most celebrated holiday here in Holland. Amsterdam festivities in particular rival those of Mardi Gras in New Orleans or New Year’s Eve in New York City. Don’t miss a visit to Amsterdam when you are around on 30 April, it’s a big (orange) party!
looks like such joyous fun!
In Sweden (you might already know) April 30 is also a special day, Valborg. We celebrate spring by gathering around big bonfires. April 30 is also our current kings birthday but that has nothing to do with the festives.
Not so much fun this year: a man drove his car through the crowd, attempting to attack Queen Beatrix and the Royal Family.
Celebrations cancelled. Already 7 victims…
I was shocked by the horrible drama which killed 7 people (when someone tried to attack the Royal family). This is very, very sad..