The OV pass is a new way to check in and out of public transport. It will replace the current OV chip card by the end of 2027 but have the same features as the current OV chip card. Although the OV pass can already be used, the features will be introduced gradually. You can see more information at the website www.ovpay.nl/en/overstaphulp. Even after the OV pass has been fully introduced, paying with your bank card, credit card or mobile phone will still remain possible.
Month: April 2026
What are the meanings of Remembrance of the Dead and Liberation Day?
During the evening of 4 May each year, the Dutch commemorate civilians and members of the armed forces of the Kingdom of the Netherlands who have died in wars or peacekeeping missions since the beginning of World War II. This commemoration is called Dodenherdenking (Remembrance of the Dead). There is a national ceremony at the Dam in Amsterdam where the King and Queen are present. At 20.00 there is a two-minute silence which is respected all over the country. The ceremony in Amsterdam is broadcast live.
On 5 May the Dutch celebrate the liberation of the Netherlands from Nazi Germany in 1945. They understand the importance of freedom, democracy and human rights. This day is not necessarily a day off from work. If people do get the day off it depends on the agreements made by their employer and trade unions. Usually, it is agreed that employees receive a day off every five years.
Activities are organised all over the country and these differ from one town to another.
What is King’s Day and what can I expect?
On 27 April the Dutch celebrate King’s Day, the birthday of King Willem-Alexander. That day the King, Queen and several other members of the Royal Family visit a town that has a central function in its region. The town offers a range of festivities such as a parade and musical performances. The Royals meet locals along the route, and this event is broadcast live. If 27 April falls on a Sunday then it is celebrated the Saturday before.
The Dutch Royal Family’s name is ‘van Oranje’ (of Orange) and everything of that colour is in their honour. Most people are dressed in orange, and you see orange flags, wigs and face paintings.
In some towns King’s Day starts on King’s Day’s eve (King’s Night) with music and this goes on for the whole night.
On the day itself almost every city, town, and village offer the public the chance to trade on the streets without a licence. This is called a flea market. If you want to find a free space to sell your things, you need to be early as the places are available on a first-come, first-served basis. The prices charged are very low and the average earning on the day is €100. Payment is always in cash.Al
All over the country there are musicians on the streets as well as parties and concerts.
The celebrations only stop when King’s Day is over.
