On Tuesday, we avoided the one-million-strong fete in Amsterdam celebrating the new Dutch monarchs King Willem-Alexander and Queen Maxima. Instead, David and I visited the fishing harbour of Marken and the charming town perhaps best known for its cheese, Edam. We arrived early, so I could take photographs before before too many people blocked the views.
As always, click photos to view detail.
Much of the village of Marken was draped in banners and bunting.
But the harbour remained untouched...
Children dressed up for the festivities.
A big screen television link was set up for Marken residents to watch Willem-Alexander's investiture.
Several Marken residents wore traditional clothing.
A shop window displayed art honouring the Dutch king.
A little girl in traditional costume rode her bicycle to the town centre.
A flag flew at nearly every house.
Trees are topped with crowns in honour of the new king and queen.
This man wore patriotic orange garden gloves, to match his banner and the flag.
Even the dog wore a bright orange bow tie.
The ubiquitous tulips.
Children in Edam wearing costumes for the grand occasion.
This image reminds me of a queen marching forward with purpose and her lady-in-waiting, following behind her.
Special Queen's/King's Day treats.
In Edam, the local fire department set up a giant spraying hose in the town square, which delighted the children (along with a bouncy castle). In this photograph, the festivities are viewed from the end of a canal, where a lone orange balloon is floating.
Flags line the streets in Edam.
The shadow of an 18th-century bridge in Edam.
Marken looks utterly charming, even moreso decorated for the occasion.
I'm curious to hear more about the spirit and the feelings of the local people who have experienced the abdication. I imagine they are feeling very proud - it does seem like a truly remarkable step for the Queen to have made. From afar, they seem in touch with the public.
Posted by: Carina | 06 May 2013 at 23:29
I don't know how I missed these...these photos are stunning!! Thanks for sharing!
Posted by: Helen | 05 May 2013 at 12:57
Tara, such photos are a treasure. And you posted tulip pictures! I am mad about tulips (could you tell??!).
Posted by: Mary H. | 04 May 2013 at 00:46
Thank you for sharing your beautiful photos of your part of the world this week. I especially loved the children, there is something so special in their celebrating, dressing in costumes, and just being a part of the day.
Posted by: Marilyn | 02 May 2013 at 18:56
As you might expect, Tara, every single one of these fills me with joy and reminds me of our own Queen's Day visit to Edam. Oh, what a day -- only this year with the investiture, it's hard to believe there could be even more than last, but I bet there was! Loved seeing the Edam bridge and that shot of the girl poking her head around the corner? A thousand words there. Hugs!
jeanie
Posted by: jeanie | 02 May 2013 at 02:34
thanks for the nice trip. just lovely!
Posted by: Sheris White | 02 May 2013 at 00:49