On April 26, 2025, the Netherlands celebrated Koningsdag with a vibrant display of national pride and unity, even as the nation mourned the passing of Pope Francis. King Willem-Alexander and Queen Máxima marked the occasion with a visit to Doetinchem, where the festivities commenced at noon, an hour later than usual due to the Pope's funeral.
Prior to the royal visit, King Willem-Alexander addressed the nation in a televised message, acknowledging the dual significance of the day. He referred to it as a "day of two faces," highlighting the joy of Koningsdag alongside the solemnity of the Pope's passing. "I realize very well that this day has two faces," he stated in a message broadcast by NOS. The King emphasized the importance of community spirit, a common thread shared by both Koningsdag and the legacy of Pope Francis. "This is all the more important in this time of tensions and uncertainties in the world around us. Freedom, equality, and legal certainty are not self-evident. They cannot exist without the active commitment of each of us," he added.
The royal family was warmly welcomed by Mayor Mark Boumans of Doetinchem, who expressed gratitude for their visit. "We are incredibly happy that you have taken the trouble to come here today and celebrate your birthday with the people," Boumans said, setting a festive tone for the day. The royal couple, along with their daughters Princess Amalia and Princess Alexia, embarked on a two-hour walk through the center of Doetinchem, beginning at the Amphion theater, where the Achterhoekse band Normaal performed.
As the streets filled with enthusiastic Oranjefans, the royal family's route showcased the rich culture of the Achterhoek region. The celebrations included a cultural program featuring performances by the Shuffle Percussion Group and a special segment titled "Ode to the Achterhoek Kitchen Table," where members of the royal family tasted local dishes prepared with regional ingredients. This initiative highlighted the significance of local culinary traditions and community engagement.
Additionally, the royal family participated in a sports program, engaging with local talents and volunteers. Queen Máxima was seen playing table tennis, while the younger princesses interacted with fans and participants, embodying the spirit of connection that Koningsdag represents.
Despite the somber backdrop of the Pope's funeral, the atmosphere in Doetinchem remained festive. The Mayor noted that approximately 300,000 residents were involved in the celebrations, either directly or indirectly, making it a truly communal event. "This route shows a beautiful part of Doetinchem," Boumans remarked, reflecting the pride felt by locals.
In a broader context, the Dutch monarchy appears to be regaining some popularity, as recent polls indicate a slight increase in support. According to a survey by Ipsos I&O, six in ten Dutch people believe the monarchy should remain, marking a 5 percentage point rise from the previous year. This comes after a decline during the COVID-19 pandemic, when support dipped to 58 percent. King Willem-Alexander received a rating of 6.9, up from 6.6 in 2024, while Queen Máxima fared even better with a 7.5 rating, reflecting her growing popularity among the public.
As the festivities unfolded, the royal family took time to reflect on the impact of Pope Francis, who was remembered as a source of inspiration for many, both Catholics and non-Catholics alike. The King and Queen recalled their personal encounters with the Pope, particularly during their state visit to the Vatican in 2017, noting his embodiment of compassion and mercy.
Prime Minister Schoof attended the Pope's funeral on behalf of the Netherlands, underscoring the significance of the occasion for the Dutch people. The dual nature of the day—celebration and mourning—was a poignant reminder of the interconnectedness of joy and sorrow in life.
As the royal family concluded their visit, the weather cooperated, with forecasts predicting a sunny and dry day, with temperatures reaching between 18 and 21 degrees Celsius in various parts of the country. This was a welcome change from previous years when temperatures on Koningsdag hovered around 13 to 16 degrees Celsius.
Overall, Koningsdag 2025 was a day marked by a unique blend of celebration and reflection. The royal family's presence in Doetinchem not only brought joy to the local community but also served as a reminder of the values of unity and togetherness that are at the heart of the Dutch monarchy. As the festivities drew to a close, the sentiments expressed by King Willem-Alexander resonated deeply with the public: the importance of community, connection, and the shared experiences that define the Dutch spirit.
