Dutch Traditions on 'Prinsjesdag'

The third Tuesday in September is 'Prinsjesdag' in the Netherlands, literally: 'Day of the little Princes'. It's a day full of traditions, set up around the start of the parliamentary year. It's not only a political event, there's a large role for the Royal Family. The Queen reads out the 'Troonrede' (speech from the throne) to the Dutch Senate and House of Representatives in the 'Ridderzaal' (hall of knights) in The Hague. She arrives in the 'Gouden Koets' (golden carriage) together with her eldest son Crown Prince Willem-Alexander and his wife Maxima. Other members of the Royal Family follow in a large traditional parade.

The 'Troonrede' states the thoughts and plans of the government for the next year. Later on the day the Minister of Finance explains the proposal of next year's budget, which is especially important in the current economic situation. For more details on the content, check this article on Dutch News.