Spring is in full swing now that it’s April, and we can finally get outside in the sun a little (at least - we hope so!). As is always the case with April in the Netherlands, there’s lots to be getting on with: taxes, festivals and a very special event in Amsterdam…

1. The IamExpat Fair returns to Amsterdam!

Maybe it’s because we’re just so excited, but April is an extra-special month here at IamExpat because the IamExpat Fair in Amsterdam is almost here! On April 13, you’ll be able to get your fill of all things “expat”, from housing help, to legal advice and everything in between.

Still not sold? Check out our programme of handy free workshops that you can attend at the fair on subjects such as finding a job in the Netherlands, learning the Dutch language and choosing a school for your children, among many, many more!

Can’t make it this time? Don’t worry; the IamExpat Fair will be returning to The Hague later this year too, so watch this space…

2. Don’t get fooled on April 1

April 1 is April Fools’ day in the Netherlands, as is also the case in many other countries around the world. Be on the lookout for some crazy advertisements, hilarious pranks and silly stunts in the name of April Fool’s. 

It might be a good idea to avoid investing in any to-good-to-be-true products you see offered on April 1, to see whether they really are for real on April 2. In the past, large companies with offices in the Netherlands including Heineken, Google and Tony’s Chololonely have all “released” prank products to give their customers an early-April chuckle, so be on the lookout for these hilarious Aprilgrappen too!

3. Deadline to file your Dutch taxes is on the way

Onto less exciting news, the Dutch tax system requires residents of the Netherlands to submit their annual tax return (belastingaangifte) by May 1. That only gives you a few more weeks to get your finances in order and your forms filled in before the deadline, but thankfully extensions are available, especially for those who have a more complex tax situation such as self-employed individuals or freelancers. 

4. King’s Day to be celebrated on April 27

Another big festival coming up in April is the annual celebration of the Dutch king’s birthday - King’s Day, on April 27. This year, King’s day will be held on a Saturday, meaning that the usual festivals, parties, festivities and second-hand shopping will take place during the weekend. 

First time doing King’s Day? No problem! Just be sure to grab something orange from the store in the week before the event, and then head on out to celebrate with some friends. You can learn more about how the Dutch celebrate King’s Day in our quick guide!

5. Tobacco taxes to increase in April

For smokers, April brings an increase in the price of cigarettes and other tobacco products. The price of a packet of 20 cigarettes will increase by an additional 0,93 cents, the tax per 50 gram pack of rolling tobacco will increase by 3,60 euros and the tax on cigars and cigarillos will be 11 percent of the sale price.