The festive season has arrived for the Dutch royals, and their fans can't contain their excitement! On a frosty Friday, King Willem-Alexander (56), his queene Máxima (52), and their trio of princesses, Amalia (20), Alexia (18), and Ariane (16), graced the photographers with their presence for the annual Christmas photo session at The Hague's Huis ten Bosch palace.
Donned in their winter coats, the family posed on the palace's steps and in front of the beautifully decorated Christmas tree, adorned with twinkling fairy lights. But it was their playful poodle, Mambo, who stole the show, as she ran around, spreading cheer through the winter air.
This was the Oranjes' final public appearance of the year, marking the end of their busy schedules. Their Christmas speeches had already been recorded, and while the royal family's holiday plans remain a secret, it's no secret they love spending Christmas in Argentina, their queen's homeland.
Holiday season is a precious time for the family to reunite. Crown Princess Amalia is pursuing her studies in Amsterdam, while her sister Alexia spends her 'gap year' working and traveling. Ariane, meanwhile, is chasing her A-levels at an Italian college.
In the Netherlands, the royal palaces, Het Loo Palace and Palace Noordeinde, transform into festive wonderlands, bathed in holiday lights. Despite the Oranjes' private holiday traditions, they've become a beloved part of the Dutch Christmas spirit, their annual Christmas photos eagerly anticipated by many.
Additional Insight:
Dutch royals celebrate Christmas, as do many Dutch families, with traditional festivities. King Willem-Alexander and his family might attend Christmas Eve church services followed by a family dinner, and then exchange gifts on Christmas Day.
Despite being a public figure, the Dutch royal family maintains a private Christmas, which has become a cherished tradition for them and their loyal subjects.
