Queen’s Day pop quiz!
Only a few days to go and it is time for Queen’s Day again. The Dutch celebration is very popular with internationals. However, how much do internationals know about Queen’s Day and its traditions? EM gave them a little pop quiz to find out.
Martin Kocian, third-year IBA (From Canada/Czech Republic)
Whose birthday is it on Queen’s Day? “The queen’s mother’s birthday.”
Why is orange the Dutch national colour? “There used to be a prince from Orange, somewhere from the Benelux.”
What are the traditions on Queen’s Day? “There are markets where people sell used items and, for example, baked items.”
Any nice Queen’s Day stories to share? “The first time I came to the Netherlands was during Queen’s Day. I had never heard of it and had no clue. So I came to university and I got a quick tour by someone who worked for ESN. She told me they had one spot left on a boat party and I decided to join. It was fantastic and a great first impression of the Netherlands. Because of this, I decided to come and study here.”
Deena Awwad, first-year IBA (from Palestine)
Whose birthday is it on Queen’s Day? “The queen’s birthday??”
Why is orange the Dutch national colour? “Because it looks nice? I am from Palestine, I have no clue!”
What are the traditions on Queen’s Day? “To get drunk, party in The Hague, then party in Amsterdam. And you can go by train for free because no one ever checks during Queen’s Day.”
Any royals in Palestine? “No, we have a president, but he is not seen as royal. So the whole royal experience is new for me. I do think it is nice that they don’t mix it with politics in the Netherlands.”
Any other national celebrations? “In Palestine we do have Independence Day, but since we are not a country and we are not independent it is loosing its meaning.”
Daniel Dragusin, master Information Management (from Romania)
Whose birthday is it on Queen’s Day? “Beatrix or Wilhelmina? I don’t know exactly. I do know that the original birthday of Beatrix is in January.”
Why is orange the Dutch national colour? “I thought it was related to soccer and it had something to do with the outfits.”
What are the traditions on Queen’s Day? “I know there is just general drinking in public. And there are a lot of street events, so everyone gathers together.”
Any exciting plans for Queen’s Day? “This year I am not in the country during Queen’s day, but I have celebrated a few times before. I think it is nice, just a little too loud maybe. I never dress up for events, so not for Queen’s Day either.” JV
