Kingsday 2026 in Maastricht: What to do, where to party & how to make the most of it

It’s almost here: Kingsday 2026! Since 2014, the Netherlands has celebrated King Willem-Alexander’s birthday in late April, when spring is at its most beautiful. Maastricht is fully participating in the festivities, but what exactly is there to do? In this blog, you’ll read exactly what’s on the schedule, and we’ll give you some tips to help you enjoy this wonderful day (or days) without a care in the world.

Kingsnight – Sunday, April 26

The night before Kingsday, celebrations are already in full swing across the Netherlands, including in Maastricht. The Vrijthof will host a massive Oranjenacht event, featuring headliners Lucas & Steve and guest artists such as La Fuente and Sam Hofman. Local icon John Tana will also be there. Oranjenacht starts at 3:00 PM, and tickets range from 23 to 27 euros.

If you’re looking for something other than a large festival square, you can also check out the street parties. Many cafés and clubs in the city center have arranged DJs and live music especially for Kingsnight. Both in Wyck and around the Markt, bars are opening their doors so partygoers can gather in a festive atmosphere.

For true party lovers, there’s also the Kingsnight Special, which goes on until the little hours. This event takes place at the popular club Complex, where DJs like Jamback and M-High will be spinning nothing but (tech) house music. The party starts at 11:00 PM, and admission costs an average of 25 euros.

Kingsday – Monday, April 27 - festivals, music, markets

After a festive Kingsnight, the celebrations continue on Kingsday! The most famous spot is once again the Vrijthof, where the Oranjegloed Festival is located. The open-air party, featuring various local artists, is decked out in orange from early morning until late at night, and admission is free for everyone! The festival also features food trucks and bars, so you can grab a bite to eat and a drink there as well. All ages are welcome, making it ideal for families and large groups to visit.

The RA:DIUS Festival takes place at a unique, industrial location. Set on the Radium grounds near the Sphinx, local and (inter)national artists come together to play an amazing mix of electronic music. Tickets range from 30 to 42 euros, and the festival runs from 1:00 PM to 11:00 PM, so you can enjoy the orange atmosphere all day long.

On Kingsday, several flea markets are also held in Maastricht. At these markets, people of all ages come together to sell secondhand items, such as clothing, toys, and books. The largest flea market takes place in the Stadspark from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM, with free admission for everyone. There will also be entertainment, such as live music, and delicious snacks for sale. There are often picnic areas and blankets available, so you can also take a moment to sit and relax.

Tip: Don’t forget to bring cash, as many stalls don’t accept debit cards.

Come early if you’re hunting for the best finds, or visit later in the day for better bargains.

In short, Kingsnight and Kingsday 2026 in Maastricht offer a perfect mix of music, parties, markets, and above all, a great atmosphere. Whether you love to dance, want to stroll through the city, or enjoy activities with your family, Maastricht has something for everyone!

Quick tips for King's Day

Wear something orange: It’s the color of the day and helps you feel part of the celebration.
Check your travel card: Week OV cards do not work on public holidays. Weekend cards do.
Arrive early: Popular events and spots can get crowded quickly.
Dress for the weather: April can be sunny, rainy, or both. Be prepared.
Pick a meeting spot: If your phone runs out of battery, it’s good to have a backup plan.
Watch your stuff: Big crowds can attract pickpockets, so keep an eye on your belongings.