The 30th of April is one of the most important dates on the Dutch calendar. Marking the birth of former Queen Juliana, this is a day of celebration- Queen Beatrix declared her mother's birthday to be a permanent national holiday.

The partying actually kick off the night before, on KonniginneNach, with fireworks and a music concert to open the festivities. The following day the streets are a riot of noise and colour, merry Dutch people and stoned tourists. Be sure to follow the dress code – which is anything orange, the colour of the Royal House- to blend right in with the million plus revellers who are out in force. Musical concerts occur alongside a variety of performances, from techno and rock to DJs and breakdancing. Trading laws are suspended for the day, and residents line the roads flogging everything and anything- for the canny antique hunter, this nation-wide jumble sale could be a goldmine.

The biggest party is of course in Amsterdam, where the famous canals are heaving with partyboats and performers. The Queen's Day celebrations are a popular event, particularly in the capital, so remember to book your accommodation well in advance.

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Written by  Amber Dobrzensky.

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