Netherlands State Opening of Parliament/Prinsjesdag - Main Page

-JvL- from Netherlands, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Each year on the 3rd Thursday in September, Netherlands holds its State Opening of Parliament. This marks the beginning of the Parliamentary Year. 

The King delivers the Speech from the Throne at Parliament. In this speech, the government outlines its plans for the coming year and reflects on the current situation in the Netherlands.

The event is called Prinsjesdag or Prince’s Day. The names comes from the original celebration, to celebrate the birthday of Prince William V, who was Prince of Orange and Stadtholder of the United Provinces of the Netherlands.

The event is normally held at Ridderzaal. But has been held elsewhere since 2020 due to the Coronvirus Pandemic and renovations to the Ridderzaal.

Typical Schedule

• Royals depart Palace (1 PM)
• Speech at Parliament (1:15 PM)
• Balcony Appearance at Noordeinde Palace (2 PM)

Attendance

• 1998-Present

Speeches from the Throne

• King Willem-Alexander (2013-Present)
• Queen Beatrix (1980-2012)

Dress Code

Royal Men - Morning Coat, Honors (Rosette)

Royal Women - Dress, Hat, Honors (Sash)

Back to Netherlands Annual Events - Main Page