Gouda – Event organizer Gouds Geluk is once again organizing two large-scale, free events this year during King’s Night and King’s Day. Since King’s Day falls on a Sunday in 2025, the celebration will take place on Saturday, April 26. The festivities 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’s becoming increasingly challenging to organize free events, but we’ve managed to put together an attractive and varied program,” according to the organizers.
The second year of“OranjeGeluk”
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 drew thousands of visitors. In 2025, visitors can once again look forward to an extensive musical lineup. The organizers have already secured all the artists and will announce them shortly. “These are the busiest days of the year for artists, but we’ve managed to put together another festive lineup. There’s something for everyone,” said Ruud van Gouds Geluk.
A Festive King’s Day for Young and Old
Although King’s Night in Gouda traditionally draws large crowds, 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 appealing daytime program. This year, the festivities will be expanded to include activities for young and old, a wide variety of food trucks, market stalls, and a diverse musical lineup.
In addition, there will be a festive opening ceremony on the Market Square. The mayor will join in raising the flag and singing the national anthem. “Around the traditional aubade, we’re organizing special activities for our youngest visitors. We hope the Market will be buzzing with a festive atmosphere starting in the morning,” says Demi van Gouds Geluk.
Challenges and a call to visitors
Organizing a free event comes with its share of challenges, the organizers emphasize. “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 is announcing a new event to wrap up the festival season. “We’re expanding the ‘Oranje Geluk’ concept even further. Exactly what’s planned for August 30, 2025, will remain a surprise for now, but we’ll be sharing more details soon.”
Stay up to date
Don’t want to miss a thing about King’s Night and King’s Day 2025? Follow Oranje Geluk on social media (@oranjegeluk) and check the website www.oranje-geluk.nl for the latest updates.
