A recap of Koningsdag 2023 in Maastricht
City photographer Laurens Bouvrie documented the festivities that took place in Maastricht during Koningsdag (King's Day).
Koningsdag in Maastricht started as usual with the vrijmarkten (flea markets) in the park. The traditional Vlaggenparade (flag parade) was held on the Vrijthof in the morning. A sports and games afternoon was followed by a performance by the Maastrichtse Verkenners Band (Show- and Marching Band) on the square near the Sint Servaasbasiliek. Afterwards, the Vrijthof turned into a big party venue during the free live music festival Oranje Gloed (Orange Glow).
A resident of the Onze Lieve Vrouwewal saw people already claiming their ideal selling spot in Stadspark around 03.00 the night before. It was a chilly morning, but that did not mean the vrijmarkt started quietly. The experienced bargain hunters were already strolling around when some sellers were still setting up their goods. Early birds in the park were rewarded with rising temperatures from around 09.30.
Many visitors to the Maastricht city centre also enjoyed the nice weather. The terraces soon filled up with orange-clad guests. In the meantime, Maastricht associations maintaining military traditions were preparing for the Vlaggenparade. Apart from these corps, numerous other city officials were present at this event, including the burgemeester (mayor) of Maastricht Annemerie Penn-te Strake. It is her last Koningsdag as mayor, as she will be retiring in the summer.
Harmonie De Koninklijke Ster van Maastricht was present to play het Wilhelmus (the Dutch national anthem) and Lang Zal Hij Leven (Happy Birthday), among other songs.
