King’s Day (27 April) is a national day in the Netherlands, on which we celebrate the King’s Birthday. Every year King Willem-Alexander, Queen Máxima and other members of the royal family visit a city in the Netherlands and this year they visited Doetinchem, in the province of Gelderland. These visits are more than symbolic, they are participatory, with the royals engaging in local customs, performances, and dialogue with residents. This annual moment of accessibility is illustrative of the Dutch monarchy’s informal character, and of the public’s enduring affection for it. More information on the history of King’s Day can be found here. 

Kings’s Day Reception

At our King’s Day reception we reflected on the deep and enduring bonds between the Netherlands and the United Kingdom. In times of growing uncertainty, from geopolitical tensions to economic pressures, it is vital that we stand together as #NorthSea neighbours. Throughout the evening we honoured the courage of the Ukrainian people, reaffirmed our shared commitment to freedom, democracy and the rule of law, and welcomed the UK’s leadership in strengthening NATO’s deterrence and defence.

Looking back on 80 years of freedom, we also reflected on the sacrifices that make today’s peace possible. Here in London, the Embassy is marking this milestone with a series of commemorations and events. On 3 May we’ll reflect on the Second World War and its legacy together with pupils of the Dutch Regenboogschool and veterans. Furthermore, the Ambassador will host a Liberation Tea with several survivors and witnesses of WWII to commemorate 80 years of freedom.

Dutch National Remembrance Ceremony

On 4 May the yearly Dutch National Remembrance Ceremony will take place at Mill Hill Cemetery, where Ambassador Paul Huijts will lay a wreath on behalf of the Kingdom of the Netherlands. You’re very welcome to join us at this special (Dutch spoken) event to commemorate all Dutch victims of war, civilians and military personnel,  who have died in armed conflict or peace missions in the Kingdom of the Netherlands or further afield since the start of the Second World War. 

These moments of remembrance strengthen our shared identity and underscore why we work so closely, from academia and the arts to trade, technology and sustainable energy, to build a safe, prosperous future.

Together, we look forward to a summer of collaboration in the Netherlands and beyond, side by side as partners, allies and friends.