Queen's Day

Every year on April 30 the Dutch celebrate the monarchy. The date was chosen because it is the birthday of the late Queen Juliana (1909-2004). This year the Dutch celebrate Queen Beatrix's 27th anniversary of her accession to the throne. Some are speculating that this may be the last Queen's Day with Beatrix on the throne. Her son, prince Willem Alexander, may take over as head of state in the coming 12 months as his mother turns 70 and may abdicate.

Personally, I don't care much for the monarchy. But it is a great reason for a party. Here in San Francisco some Dutchies got together on Saturday for an Orange bash. I missed it, sadly.

Queen's Day, or Koninginnedag, is mainly known for being the one day in the year that everyone clears out their attics and garages to sell whatever they don't want anymore on the street in a giant vrijmarkt. The night before is celebrated as 'Koninginnenacht' (queen's night).

My uncle Peike sent me this picture of Queen's Day in Haarlem. Thanks!