In April, we Bonaireans have a royal time!

How can we not? Along with the Netherlands and other Dutch Caribbean islands, we celebrate King’s Birthday annually, on 27 April.

Each year, we eagerly anticipate the national holiday, which begins with an official government ceremony. Once the official part is concluded, a host of fun-filled activities are held in Kralendijk to commemorate King Willem-Alexander. 

This King Birthday is guaranteed to be the same, as families and friends venture out to join in on the celebrations. Some will look for breezy locales to engage in customary kite flying. Others will head to the street fairs for terrific bargains and delicious food.

As we look forward to celebrating this special day and enjoying the accompanying festivities, we want to share a few fun facts about the Kings Day. 

Join us in a fun game of ‘Did you know?’

Did you know that historically, the holiday was first called Prinsessedag (Princess’ Day), then Koninginnedag and finally Koningsdag, Kings Day?

Did you know that the holiday was previously observed on 30 April? In 2014, it was changed to 27 April to celebrate King Willem-Alexander’s birthday.

Did you know that on King Willem-Alexander’s birthday, everyone dresses in orange because the royal family bears the name House of Orange? It is also the national colour of the Netherlands.

Did you know that Oranjebitter or orange bitter, is a liqueur drink first associated with the royal family in the 1600s? Today it is a Kings Day custom to toast the monarch with the orange, flavourful beverage.

There you have it, several fun and, dare we say, interesting facts about our anticipated Kings Day.

Felis Dia Di Rei, Bonaire!

Source: Netherlands