King's Day in The Netherlands as Willem-Alexander Celebrates Birthday

April 27 is The King's Day celebration in The Netherlands as it is King Willem-Alexander's birthday. This year, the King marked his 56th birthday, and the Dutch celebrated it with street markets, parties and pastries. 

This year's celebration of the King's birthday is a significant milestone as he will celebrate also the 10th anniversary of his reign.

©Dutch Royal House 

King Willem-Alexander ascended to the Dutch throne on April 30, 2013, upon the abdication of his mother, Queen Beatrix, who by that time marked her 33rd anniversary on the Dutch throne. 

From left: Princess Arianne, The King and Queen, and Princess Catharina-Amalia ©Dutch Royal House 

This year's King Day celebration began in Afrikaanderwijk in Rotterdam-South. The King was treated by the local market entrepreneurs with cake and sweets. The Dutch royals then walked to the carnival parade and met children, locals, and tourists for the grand celebration and street festivities. 

©Dutch Royal House 

©Dutch Royal House 

The Dutch royals took part in the street activities ©Dutch Royal House 

©Dutch Royal House 

©Dutch Royal House 

The King was accompanied by his wife, Queen Maxima, two of their three daughters, The Princess of Orange and Princess Arianne, the King's brother, Prince Constantijin and his wife, Princess Laurentien. 

They were ferried through the Rotterdam water by the famed Water Taxi. And they took part in many street activities including sports. 

The Dutch royals riding the water taxi in Rotterdam ©Dutch Royal House 

His Majesty expressed his gratefulness on the celebration, "That I could celebrate my birthday today with my family and also 10 years on the throne with you in this very special city (Rotterdam) has done a lot to me. Thank you very much!"

From left Princess Catharina-Amalia (holding the family dog, Mambo), Queen Maxima, The King, and Princess Arianne. ©Dutch Royal House 

We would like to greet His Majesty a happy birthday 🎂🎈 And happy 10 years anniversary on the Dutch throne! 

Royal Fashion

For their outfit of the day, Queen Maxima wore green ensemble from Natan Couture including her footwear. 

While Princess Arianne wore white blazer and trousers from Max and Co, her cobalt blue suede pumps and clutch are from Natan Couture. 

Stylish Princess Arianne 

Catharina-Amalia, the Princess of Orange wore striking fuchsia ensembles from Marina Rinaldi and a pair of nude pumps from Gianvito Rossi. Not in photo is the King's second daughter, Princess Alexia, she is currently studying in Wales, UK.