On April 17, 2025, schools across the Netherlands are buzzing with excitement as they participate in the annual Koningsspelen, or King's Games. This beloved event, which promotes sports and healthy living among children, is expected to engage over a million youngsters nationwide. Among the festivities, a special highlight this year is the visit from King Willem-Alexander and Queen Máxima to Roosendaal, where they will join in the celebrations.
At the Sint Vitusschool, the atmosphere is electric as students gather to take part in the day’s activities. "The children are looking forward to this day immensely. No books or notebooks, just fun and movement!" says Christa van de Veen, the school's director. The day kicked off at 08:30 with an enthusiastic opening that featured a series of dance performances choreographed by the students themselves. The schoolyard was alive with music, and even parents got in on the action, singing and dancing along.
After the lively dance session, students enjoyed a nutritious Koningsontbijt, or King's breakfast, fueling them for the energetic activities that followed. The program included a variety of games and sports such as Ren je Rot (Run You Rot), Sponsloop (Sponge Run), Jagerbal (Hunter Ball), Museumbewaker (Museum Guard), Kanjam, Boter, Kaas en Eieren (Butter, Cheese and Eggs), and Memory. Each game was designed to foster teamwork and physical fitness, ensuring a day filled with laughter and camaraderie.
In Anna Paulowna, the spirit of the Koningsspelen was also in full swing a day earlier, on April 16, when students from IKC De Kroon and IKC Spoorbuurt came together for their own celebrations. The middle and upper grades enjoyed a variety of sports across three locations: the sportcomplex Kleine Sluis, the gymzaal of IKC De Kroon, and sporthal Veerburg. Students had the chance to choose their favorite activities, which included padel, rugby, street dance, judo, and navigating a stormbaan (obstacle course).
Little ones at IKC De Kroon kicked off their day with an opening dance in the Atrium, followed by a series of games and playground fun. Activities for the younger children included tug-of-war, cat-and-mouse, relays, face painting, and the ever-popular bouncy castle. One enthusiastic student exclaimed, "We could choose two sports, but I wish the day could last longer so I could do even more!" Such sentiments echo the joy and excitement that the Koningsspelen bring to children across the country.
The Koningsspelen are not just about sports; they represent a celebration of community and togetherness. Schools across the Netherlands are decorated in vibrant orange, the national color, creating a festive atmosphere. Teachers, parents, and volunteers work tirelessly to ensure that every child experiences the joy of this day. As the day draws to a close, the smiles and laughter of the children reflect the success of the event.
In Roosendaal, the royal visit adds a touch of glamour to the festivities. King Willem-Alexander and Queen Máxima are expected to interact with the children, participate in some of the games, and share in the joy of this national celebration. Their presence not only elevates the significance of the Koningsspelen but also inspires the children to engage in sports and physical activities.
As the sun sets on these joyful celebrations, parents and teachers alike express their gratitude for the opportunity to foster a love of sports and healthy living in the next generation. The Koningsspelen serve as a reminder of the importance of physical activity and community spirit, and this year’s events have certainly lived up to that legacy.
The Koningsspelen are more than just a day of fun; they are a cornerstone of Dutch culture, emphasizing the values of teamwork, health, and national pride. With each passing year, the event continues to grow, and the joy it brings to children remains unparalleled. As schools across the Netherlands wrap up their celebrations, one thing is clear: the Koningsspelen will continue to be a cherished tradition for generations to come.
