Celebrate King’s Day in the Netherlands with the ultimate music playlist that captures the spirit of this vibrant orange festival. King’s Day, or Koningsdag, transforms the Netherlands into one massive street party each April 27th, honoring King Willem-Alexander’s birthday with music, dancing, and joy from dawn until dusk. The right soundtrack makes all the difference when celebrating this iconic Dutch holiday, whether you’re cruising the Amsterdam canals on a boat party, browsing the vrijmarkt flea markets, or dancing in the streets with thousands of orange-clad revelers.
The music of King’s Day is as diverse as the celebration itself, ranging from traditional Dutch folk songs and emotional ballads to cutting-edge electronic dance music from world-renowned DJs. This carefully curated list brings together classic favorites that Dutch locals have been singing for generations alongside fresh releases from 2026 that are dominating the charts. Each song represents a different facet of Dutch musical culture, ensuring your King’s Day playlist captures the complete experience of this unforgettable national holiday. Whether you’re planning your first Koningsdag adventure or you’re a seasoned celebrant looking to refresh your songs collection, these tracks will keep the party going all day long.
Arcade by Duncan Laurence
Duncan Laurence’s emotional ballad became an international sensation after winning the Eurovision Song Contest 2019 for the Netherlands, marking the country’s first victory since 1975. The song tells a deeply personal story about longing and lost love, inspired by someone close to Duncan who died at a young age, and the metaphor of being a small-town boy in a big arcade resonates with listeners worldwide. Since its release, the track has crossed 1.4 billion streams on Spotify, cementing its place as the most successful Eurovision song in streaming history and becoming an anthem of Dutch pride perfect for King’s Day celebrations.
Het Is Een Nacht by Guus Meeuwis
This 1995 breakthrough hit from Guus Meeuwis remains one of the most beloved Dutch party songs and a King’s Day essential that gets every crowd singing along. The song captures the magic of a perfect night out with friends, celebrating those moments when everything feels just right and the party never wants to end. With its infectious melody and nostalgic lyrics, this track embodies the communal spirit that makes King’s Day so special, bringing strangers together in shared celebration.
Animals by Martin Garrix
Martin Garrix burst onto the global EDM scene as a teenager with this massive festival anthem that became one of the defining tracks of electronic dance music. The Dutch DJ and producer, who has been named the world’s best DJ five times by DJ Mag, created a track with an instantly recognizable drop that ignites dance floors worldwide. Perfect for the high-energy atmosphere of King’s Day festivals like Kingsland and Loveland, this track represents the Netherlands’ dominance in electronic music and gets the entire crowd jumping in unison.
Brabant by Guus Meeuwis
An emotional ode to the Dutch province of Brabant, this song has become an anthem of regional pride that resonates far beyond its geographic origins. Meeuwis captures the feeling of home and belonging with lyrics that celebrate the landscapes, people, and memories that define a place in your heart. Students and music lovers across the Netherlands cite this as one of the most iconic Dutch songs, making it essential listening for anyone wanting to understand Dutch culture during King’s Day.
This Is What It Feels Like by Armin van Buuren
This collaboration with Canadian singer Trevor Guthrie showcases why Armin van Buuren is considered one of trance music’s greatest ambassadors and a five-time winner of DJ Mag’s top DJ award. The track blends uplifting trance elements with radio-friendly pop sensibilities, creating a euphoric anthem about the overwhelming emotions of falling in love. Van Buuren’s weekly radio show “A State of Trance” has millions of listeners worldwide, and this crossover hit brings his signature sound to King’s Day celebrations across the Netherlands.
Dromen Zijn Bedrog by Marco Borsato
Marco Borsato’s 1994 breakthrough single spent a record-breaking 12 weeks at number one on the Dutch charts and remains one of the most iconic Dutch-language songs ever recorded. The title translates to “Dreams Are Deceptive,” and the emotional ballad explores themes of love, disappointment, and the gap between dreams and reality with Borsato’s powerful vocals. This song marked Borsato’s transition from singing in Italian to Dutch, launching a career that would make him one of the Netherlands’ most successful artists of all time.
Heb Je Even Voor Mij by Frans Bauer
Frans Bauer’s signature song in the “levenslied” genre captures the working-class Dutch musical tradition with its straightforward emotions and memorable melody. The title asks “Do You Have Time for Me?” and the song’s themes of love and longing resonate deeply with Dutch audiences who grew up with this style of music. Perfect for the vrijmarkt flea markets and street parties of King’s Day, this track brings generations together in sing-along moments that define the holiday’s inclusive spirit.
Sleepless Nights by Martin Garrix & Armin van Buuren
Released in 2026, this historic collaboration brings together two of the Netherlands’ biggest electronic music stars in their first-ever joint production. The track features British vocalist Libby Whitehouse and blends Martin Garrix’s modern production techniques with Armin van Buuren’s signature trance DNA, creating a festival anthem for a new generation. Premiered at Ultra Music Festival Miami and performed at major festivals worldwide, this fresh release captures the restless energy of King’s Day celebrations that stretch from sunset to sunrise.
Zij Gelooft In Mij by André Hazes
The late André Hazes, known as the “King of the Levenslied,” created timeless Dutch classics that continue to resonate decades after their release. This emotional ballad about unwavering love and support showcases Hazes’ ability to connect with audiences through raw, honest emotion and powerful vocal delivery. His songs remain fixtures at sporting events, karaoke nights, and King’s Day celebrations, where his music brings people together in shared appreciation of Dutch musical heritage.
Breathe by Armin van Buuren
Armin van Buuren’s ninth studio album “Breathe,” released in June, explores themes of mental health, personal growth, and creative freedom across 51 tracks. The title track showcases the evolution of van Buuren’s sound while maintaining the uplifting trance elements that made him a global superstar and a regular presence in DJ Mag’s top rankings. This recent release demonstrates how Dutch electronic music continues to innovate while respecting its roots, perfect for the modern King’s Day experience.
Het Wilhelmus
The Netherlands’ national anthem becomes especially significant during King’s Day when spontaneous sing-alongs break out across the country in celebration of national unity. Written during the Dutch Revolt in the 16th century, this historic anthem honors the House of Orange-Nassau and the Dutch royal family at the heart of Koningsdag celebrations. Hearing thousands of people singing “Het Wilhelmus” together in parks, on boats, and in city squares creates one of the most moving moments of King’s Day.
Lights and Shadows by OG3NE
This powerful ballad represented the Netherlands at Eurovision 2017, showcasing the vocal harmonies of three talented Dutch sisters. The emotional performance and soaring melodies demonstrate the Netherlands’ ability to produce world-class pop music alongside its electronic dance dominance. The song’s themes of perseverance and hope align perfectly with the joyful, optimistic atmosphere that defines King’s Day celebrations across the country.
In My Mind by Dynoro & Gigi D’Agostino
While Dynoro is Lithuanian, this massive dance hit features a sample from Italian artist Gigi D’Agostino and became a global phenomenon through its infectious melody and driving beat. The track’s success on streaming platforms and in clubs worldwide represents the international nature of dance music that Dutch DJs and producers have helped shape. Perfect for the electronic music festivals that dominate King’s Day programming, this track keeps the energy high from afternoon into night.
Radar Love by Golden Earring
This 1973 rock classic remains one of the most successful Dutch songs internationally, regularly played on classic rock radio stations worldwide. Golden Earring’s driving rhythm and memorable guitar riffs create a timeless anthem about the connection between lovers separated by distance but united by an invisible bond. The band’s five-decade career and enduring popularity make this track an essential piece of Dutch musical history worth celebrating on King’s Day.
Love by Armin van Buuren & Omnia
This trance collaboration from 2026 between Armin van Buuren and fellow Dutch producer Omnia represents the cutting edge of the genre that the Netherlands helped popularize. Featured prominently in van Buuren’s DJ sets and included in the “A State of Trance 2025” compilation, this track showcases the emotional, uplifting sound that defines modern trance music. The euphoric melodies and driving beats make it perfect for the massive festival stages that define King’s Day celebrations in Amsterdam and beyond.
Geef Mij Je Angst by André Hazes
Originally by André Hazes and later covered by Guus Meeuwis after Hazes’ death in 2004, this powerful song translates to “Give Me Your Fears” and offers comfort and support. The emotional depth of the lyrics combined with memorable melodies creates a moment of genuine connection in the midst of King’s Day’s high-energy celebrations. When crowds sing this song together, it embodies the sense of community and mutual support that makes Dutch culture special.
Bach To The Future by Armin van Buuren & BLR
Armin van Buuren’s 2026 collaboration with BLR (Leon Bolier) demonstrates the creative versatility and constant innovation that keeps Dutch electronic music at the forefront of the global scene. The catchy production has been featured repeatedly in van Buuren’s DJ sets and showcases how trance music continues to evolve while respecting its heritage. This fresh track brings modern production techniques to King’s Day celebrations while maintaining the euphoric energy that defines the holiday.
Daar In Het Kleine Café Aan De Haven by Pierre Kartner
Better known as Father Abraham, Pierre Kartner created this nostalgic classic about a small café by the harbor where memories and emotions flow freely. The song’s storytelling approach and evocative imagery capture a quintessentially Dutch sensibility that resonates across generations. Perfect for the more intimate moments of King’s Day celebrations, this track provides a counterpoint to the high-energy dance anthems and showcases Dutch music’s emotional depth.
Het Land van by Lange Frans & Baas B
This 2005 hip-hop track provides important context about Dutch culture and identity, making it essential listening for anyone wanting to understand the Netherlands beyond tourist stereotypes. The song’s lyrics explore what defines the country and its people, touching on both pride and social issues with honesty and skill. Music students recommend learning the lyrics by heart so you can sing along in pubs during King’s Day, joining locals in celebrating Dutch culture through contemporary music.
Steeds Weer Huil Je by Lucas & Gea
This emotional Dutch duo explores the complexities of marriage and relationships with raw honesty that resonates with listeners who appreciate heartfelt songwriting. While not as internationally known as some electronic dance music hits, songs like this represent the diverse musical landscape of the Netherlands beyond the festival stages. The traditional waltz rhythm and emotional vocals showcase a different side of Dutch music perfect for quieter King’s Day moments.
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of music is played during King’s Day in the Netherlands?
King’s Day features an incredibly diverse musical landscape ranging from traditional Dutch folk songs and emotional ballads to cutting-edge electronic dance music from world-renowned DJs. The celebrations include everything from orchestral performances of the national anthem to massive techno and house festivals, with local street musicians playing traditional Dutch sing-alongs throughout the day. Electronic music dominates the large-scale festival events like Kingsland and Loveland, while traditional “levenslied” songs and party classics resonate in the streets, pubs, and vrijmarkt areas where locals gather to celebrate.
What are the most popular Dutch artists for King’s Day celebrations?
The most popular artists include electronic music legends like Martin Garrix, Armin van Buuren, Tiësto, and Afrojack who represent the Netherlands’ dominance in global dance music. Traditional favorites include Guus Meeuwis, Marco Borsato, Frans Bauer, and the late André Hazes, whose emotional ballads and party anthems get entire crowds singing along. Duncan Laurence has become increasingly popular since winning Eurovision 2019, while bands like Golden Earring represent classic Dutch rock heritage that spans generations.
Are there specific songs associated with King Willem-Alexander?
The “Koningslied” was specifically written for King Willem-Alexander’s investiture in 2013, featuring contributions from artists including Ali B, Guus Meeuwis, and Lange Frans. While the song received mixed reactions initially, it became part of the official coronation ceremonies and represents a modern attempt to create a royal anthem. The traditional national anthem “Het Wilhelmus” remains the most important song honoring the Dutch royal family and is sung at official King’s Day events and spontaneous celebrations throughout the country.
Can I find these King’s Day songs on YouTube and streaming platforms?
Yes, all the songs mentioned in this article are available on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Music, and other major streaming platforms for easy access and playlist creation. Many artists have official channels with music videos, live performances, and remixes that enhance the listening experience and help you prepare for King’s Day celebrations. Creating a King’s Day playlist on your preferred streaming service allows you to enjoy the full range of Dutch musical culture wherever you are in the world.
What is the best way to experience King’s Day music in the Netherlands?
The best experience combines attending one of the major electronic music festivals like Kingsland or Loveland with exploring street parties in neighborhoods like the Jordaan where local musicians perform traditional Dutch songs. Booking a boat party on Amsterdam’s canals provides a unique perspective with DJs and live music while floating past thousands of celebrants on the shores and bridges. Don’t miss the spontaneous sing-alongs in pubs and public squares where locals enthusiastically perform classic Dutch party songs that create unforgettable moments of connection and celebration.