Queensday; Koninginnedag 2005

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It's an Orange thing! The prevalent color, symbolizing Dutch national and royal pride, stems from the royal family name - The Family Nassau, House of Orange.

Wandering through Amsterdam on Queensday can give the impression that it is in honor of the many gay queens who converge on the city for this giant out in the open street party when it is in fact the official celebration of the Dutch sovereign's birthday.

Queensday was introduced originally by Queen Wilhelmina since 1902. Her daughter Queen Juliana was born on April 30, which made this day a national holiday in The Netherlands when she officially became Queen. Her daughter and the current Queen of the Netherlands, Queen Beatrix, decided to keep Queensday on the 30th of April as a tribute to her mother.

Cities and towns all over Holland become giant yard sale, flea market, festivals. Bars are allowed to put beer taps outside, and many erect large and small stages and playing music to attract crowds.

The Dutch have an attitude of tolerance dating back to the 16th century when they forced out the Spanish and their inquisition. Since then, the Dutch make a point of not criminalizing or feigning moral outrage at victimless "crimes". Prostitution, pornography, homosexuality, euthanasia, and soft drug use are all tolerated and integrated into Dutch society. Let's party!

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