Willem and Máxima Kick Off Dutch Festivities In New York

The Prince of Orange is in New York this week to celebrate the 400th anniversary of friendship between the Netherlands and the United States. He and his wife, Princess Máxima of the Netherlands, will participate in the New York festivities starting today and leave on Sunday, September 13th.

The ceremonial welcome began on the flight deck of the USS Intrepid. Prince Willem-Alexander gave a short speech after the formalities of introduction by the Mayor of New York and the US Secretary of State. The royal couple was presented with a Tiffany bowl which was etched with scenes of New York City. The Dutch naval frigate HMNLS Tromp fired a 21-gun salute and the Royal Netherlands Navy Band provided the music.

After the ceremony, Willem and Máxima visited the United States Military Academy at West Point. The prince addressed the corps of cadets and emphasized the importance of the alliance between the Netherlands and the United States.

The royal couple then headed to Albany for a reception and to view the New Netherland Project.

In the evening, Willem and Máxima returned to New York City to light the tower of the Empire State Building in orange. After the lighting, they were bestowed a gift of a miniature Empire State Building.

Princess Máxima did not disappoint fashion pundits with her choice of outfit for the first day; she was resplendent in a scarlet suit and small feather hat.

Photo: REUTERS