King cruise

King Cruise is back, and how!

One thousand two hundred and fifty American cars and motorcycles: that was the turnout at King Cruise 2025, the country's largest gathering for American vehicles. A regular fixture since 2003, it's back after a very short hiatus last year. Organizer Maria Pels has good news: there will be another King Cruise in 2026, on Sunday, April 12th!

The first edition took place in 2003 as a trial run, and soon after, it was a party almost every month in the parking lot of the Maxis in Muiden. It grew into a household name known to every American transportation enthusiast, and even beyond. Nearly 2.000 vehicles gathered at its peak. A gathering for everyone, young and old, and that applies not only to the visitors but also to the cars and motorcycles. A beautifully restored Cadillac Coupe de Ville stands next to a customized modern Corvette, and a glittering Hot Rod proudly stands next to a cool Viper GTS: that's the King Cruise, a family atmosphere for anyone with a passion for American vehicles.

On a different tack
Last year, King Cruise returned, and Maria took things to the next level. After years of searching, they found a new venue, and it turned out to be a bull's-eye: Louwman & Parqui in Raamsdonksveer. It was an instant hit for both parties: "This is a venue we can look forward to for years to come!" With music, catering (expanded for the upcoming edition), exhibitors, and thousands of visitors, it was one big party, with nothing but positive feedback.

The Dodge Brothers
Louwman & Parqui may be best known for importing Toyota and Lexus cars, but in 1923 the company began importing The Dodge Brothers, later simply Dodge. And so Maria is incredibly proud that Louwman & Parqui is returning to its roots on April 12th: "This is so cool! The company has a wonderful history with American cars, and that history is also on display in the museum in Raamsdonksveer, in the building with the distinctive dome. King Cruise visitors can also visit the museum; it's included in the price."

New coat
On April 12th, Raamsdonksveer will be bathed in American colors, as hundreds of American cars, motorcycles, and even a few trucks will grace the grounds around the dome. Maria: "Last year it was incredibly busy. There were 1.250 vehicles, and that was a first! We can still accommodate up to 1.750, but then the grounds will be full too!" The cars and motorcycles will be parked in the stylish lots surrounding the building. I honestly never expected King Cruise to become a real event! But rest assured, the atmosphere and the cars will remain as familiar as ever—a real family feeling! There will be music, food, fun, and thousands of like-minded people.

Practical information
To enter the Louwman & Parqui grounds at Steurweg 8 in Raamsdonksveer, you need one ticket per vehicle, regardless of the number of passengers. You can purchase these tickets at www.kingcruise.nl for €10 per (American) vehicle. Tickets will be slightly more expensive at the gate, and they're limited, so booking your ticket online is recommended. The event starts at 11:00 AM and lasts until 4:00 PM.