Celebrate Koningsdag at Sea with Holland America
On every Holland America cruise, there’s a time when our Dutch heritage comes alive in a vibrant sea of orange. We celebrate with our signature Orange Party on every sailing, bringing guests together to toast a beloved tradition inspired by Koningsdag, the Netherlands’ national holiday in honor of their king. The color orange is strongly associated with the Netherlands and the House of Orange, the Dutch royal family.
With festive décor, lively energy, and now signature cocktails crafted in partnership with Bols, our Orange Party is a joyful expression of Dutch pride at sea — and an invitation to celebrate together.
The Orange Party Starts Here
The Orange Party is a beloved Holland America tradition, honoring our Dutch roots in a way that’s festive, welcoming, and unmistakably orange. Music, décor, and celebratory vibes set the scene as guests gather to enjoy the spirit of Koningsdag — no matter where in the world they’re sailing.
Now enhanced with new Bols cocktails, the Orange Party blends time‑honored traditions with fresh flavors, creating a signature onboard celebration that’s both meaningful and memorable.
It’s Always Koningsdag at Sea
The Netherlands’ holiday of Koningsdag is known for its joyful spirit, festive traditions, and signature color: orange. For Holland America, it’s more than a date on the calendar — it’s a reflection of who we are. As a Dutch‑founded cruise line, our heritage shapes our award-winning hospitality and the experiences we share with guests.
By bringing Koningsdag to life on board with our Orange Party, we proudly honor our roots while inviting guests from around the world to take part in this cherished national tradition on every voyage.
Experience our signature Orange Party on board. Book a cruise now!
Proud to Partner with Bols
To make the celebration even more authentic, we’ve partnered with Bols, the iconic Dutch distillery with centuries of craftsmanship behind every bottle. From welcome cocktails served in traditional jenever glasses to Dutch‑inspired garnishes like stroopwafel and hagelslag, every detail is designed to feel authentic .
Signature Bols cocktails bring a shared commitment to quality and tradition to life, adding a sweet, authentically Dutch flavor and providing the color for the Orange Party — and creating a warm atmosphere that invites guests to sip, play, pose, and connect long after the last toast.
How to Throw Your Own Orange Party
If you won’t be joining us for a cruise this Koningsdag, we’ve got everything you need to throw your own Orange Party. Set the scene with a splash of orange décor or attire, then add in some good company and signature cocktails crafted with Bols, our Dutch partner distillery. Use the recipes below to mix, toast, and celebrate together.
Oranj Elix (served in a Collins glass)
- 1/2 oz Bols Red Orange
- 4/5 oz Damrak Gin
- 2 barspoons cane sugar
Shake with ice. Strain over fresh ice. Garnish with an orange twist.
Orange Party Spritz (served in a wine glass)
- 3 parts Sparkling Wine
- 2 parts Bols Dry Orange
- 1 part soda water
Build over ice. Gently stir. Garnish with an orange slice.
Oranj Elix Zero (non‑alcoholic)
- 1/2 oz Bols Pomegranate
- 4/5 oz Damrak Virgin 0.0
- 2 barspoons cane sugar
Shake with ice. Strain over fresh ice. Garnish with an orange peel.
Proost! đŸ§¡
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