No backpacks allowed along Budget Day route: Hague municipality

The municipality of The Hague advises visitors not to bring any large bags or backpacks when coming to watch Budget Day. "Those who bring a backpack may take longer to pass checks", the municipality writes on its website. "It would be a shame if through multiple checks you miss the passage of the Glass Coach." Those who need to take a bag are advised to use a plastic or cloth bag. All visitors are also advised to make use of public transit, as many roads are closed for Budget Day. Though those traveling by train from Utrecht will have to take up to an hour of extra traveling time into account due to a damaged railway viaduct. While Budget Day, or Prinsjesdag as the Dutch call it, is surrounded with festivities and events, including the Royals' carriage ride, a hat parade and the balcony scene, it is primarily the day the King gives his annual speech announcing the government's plans for next year. The official budget will also be presented. King Willem-Alexander wil give his speech from the throne a little after 1:00 p.m., in the presence of Queen Maxima, the cabinet, the members of Parliament and the Senate, a number of dignitaries and a number of ordinary citizens. Minister Jeroen Dijsselbloem of Finance will present the budget at 3:00 p.m.