It was a day filled with pomp and ceremony when the Dutch royal family pulled out all the stops.
Queen Máxima of the Netherlands was the epitome of elegance, looking resplendent in a blue and gold gown that she paired with a wide-brimmed hat.
All eyes were on the queen, who was accompanying her husband as they attended Prinsjesdag – the state opening of parliament that is traditionally held on the third Tuesday of September.
Queen Máxima was helped out of the carriage by her husband King Willem-Alexander
As is customary, Máxima and King Willem-Alexander travelled in the Golden Coach from Noordeinde Palace to the Binnenhof in The Hague.
The couple were spotted arriving at parliament in their majestic coach, and were given a ceremonial welcome by the dozens of guards. The king and queen were joined by Willem-Alexander's younger brother Prince Constantijn and his wife Princess Laurentien.
© Photo: PAThe queen was radiant in a blue and gold floor-length gown
The royals were welcomed to a joint session of the Senate and the House of Representatives. Seated on his throne, Willem-Alexander delivered his annual speech in which he outlined the current state of affairs in the country and the government's main plans for the coming year.
The king concluded his speech with confidence, saying: "The Netherlands is a strong country in an unstable world. The results we have achieved together in recent years enable us to look forward with confidence.
"It would be unwise to underestimate the problems and international uncertainties facing the Netherlands. But history teaches us that 'steady progress' is possible by working together towards solutions, both in our own country and with our international partners."
© Photo: Getty ImagesThe couple waved to crowds from the balcony of Noordeinde Palace
Afterwards Willem-Alexander and Máxima returned to the palace, where they greeted members of the public from their balcony.
The 45-year-old queen, who shares three daughters with her husband, was as radiant as usual, waving to crowds and smiling warmly.
