Orange Happiness | King's Night and King's Day
Event organizer Gouds Geluk is once again organizing two large-scale, free events during King's Night and King's Day this year. Because King's Day falls on a Sunday in 2025, the celebrations will be held on Saturday, April 26. The festivities will begin on Friday, April 25, with King's Night. On both days, the Market Square in Gouda will be transformed into a vibrant orange square, without barriers or fences, contributing to the accessible and festive atmosphere. “It is becoming increasingly challenging to organize free events, but we have succeeded in putting together an attractive and varied program." said the organization.
The second year of 'OranjeGeluk' (Orange Happiness)
In 2024, Gouds Geluk organized King's Night and King's Day in Gouda for the first time, under the name 'Oranje Geluk'. With performances by Joël Borelli, Hermes House Band, Qmusic Het Foute Uur, and Waterproof Shampoo, among others, the events attracted thousands of visitors. Visitors can look forward to an extensive musical program in 2025 as well. The organization has already booked all the artists and will announce them shortly. "These are the busiest days of the year for artists, but we have once again managed to put together a festive line-up. There is something for everyone," says Ruud van Gouds Geluk.
A festive King's Day for young and old
Although King's Night in Gouda traditionally attracts many visitors, King's Day on the Market Square is usually quieter. Since last year, Gouds Geluk has been working to change this and is committed to organizing an attractive day program. This year, the festivities will be expanded with activities for young and old, a wide range of food trucks, market stalls, and a varied musical program.
In addition, there will be a festive opening ceremony on the Market Square. Together with the mayor, the flag will be raised and the Dutch national anthem sung. "Around the traditional aubade, we are organizing special activities for our youngest visitors. We hope that the Market Square will be buzzing with excitement from the morning onwards," says Demi van Gouds Geluk.
Challenges and appeal to visitors
Organizing a free event comes with its own set of challenges, the organization emphasizes. "Safety always comes first, but at the same time, we want to maintain an open and accessible atmosphere. That's only possible with the help of many security guards and emergency services," says Gino van Gouds Geluk.
Since there is no ticket sales, the festivities depend on other sources of income. "We urge visitors to purchase their drinks at the official bars. This way, you contribute to the preservation of this free event. Furthermore, for safety reasons, it is not permitted to bring your own drinks," says Gino.
New event on August 30, 2025
As the icing on the cake, Gouds Geluk announces a newevent for the end of the festival season. "We are expanding the Oranje Geluk concept. What exactly is planned for August 30, 2025, remains a surprise for now, but we will announce more soon."
Stay informed
Don't want to miss out on anything happening on King's Night and King's Day 2025? Follow Oranje Geluk on social media (@oranjegeluk) and keep an eye on the website www.oranje-geluk.nl for the latest updates.