Weather forecasters are pessimistic about the chances of good weather on Monday, when the Netherlands celebrates King’s Day with mass outdoor markets and parties.

While Sunday is likely to be warm and sunny with temperatures up to 17 Celsius, rain will move in across the whole country late in the day. That means Monday is likely to be cooler, with heavy showers at times.

The KNMI weather bureau says there is a 70% chance of rain on Monday and only a 30% chance of sunshine.

RTL weather woman Nicolien Kroon does expect some sun – between five and eight hours in total – but says it will be no warmer than 11 Celsius.

‘They won’t be heavy showers but no one will be spared,’ she said. People planning to sell items should be sure to take plastic sheeting to cover them up when it rains, she added.

‘If you are selling old books, there will be just enough rain to make nice papier-mâché from them,’ she said.