Royal family in Emmen
The Dutch royals arrive in the Drenthe city at 11 am. Mayor Eric van Oosterhout will receive them at Noorderplein. Emmen also has a children’s mayor: 12-year-old Kirsten Alting. She will also be present at the reception. Before the procession moves to the Noorderstraat, Bouke Scholten, who is also called the ‘Emmense Elvis’, performs. Afterwards, the royal family will view a gallery of living statues that show the history of Emmen. There will also be dancing here for the royal family, namely by a dance couple from the local group ‘t Aol Volk and breakdancer AJ.
Generous programme
There is more on the agenda. Willem-Alexander and his family are expected on the ‘birthday square’ after all those performances. Here you will find all kinds of Emmen residents who also have something to celebrate today. For example, it is also their birthday or they have received a ribbon. After a local snack and drink, the royal family is invited to participate in an interactive game about the region. This will take place under the leadership of Qmusic DJ Jorien Renkema and Radio 538 DJ Jordi Warners.
The Emmen animals also play a role in the King’s Day program. For example, Willem-Alexander, Máxima and the rest of the royals will pass by the Rensen Park, where the Noorder Zoo used to be located. They then continue their way to the current Emmen zoo: Wildlands. Here is a surprising program that suits the zoo.
Musical conclusion
Finally, the walk ends at the so-called ‘sing-along square’. Daniël Lohues, also a resident of Emmen, will perform here with a live band. The mayor will then give a speech, as will the king. The whole thing ends musically with a performance by Reinout Douma. He will play the Wilhelmus with the Noordpool Orchestra.
