Horses from the Cavalry Honorary Escort gathered on the beach at Scheveningen on Monday morning to prepare for Prinsjesdag. The annual beach exercise is designed to help the animals adapt to the loud noises and large crowds expected along the royal route through the city centre on Tuesday.
Spectators on the beach were actively invited to participate in the training. Spectators were asked to clap loudly, while children were encouraged to make as much noise as possible as the horses passed by.
Military personnel, police officers, and the Royal Marechaussee also took part in the exercise. Music was provided by the Mounted Arms Trumpet Corps as the horses moved along the sand.
Concerns over animal welfare
The Hague branch of the Party for the Animals has criticised the rehearsal, raising concerns about animal welfare. The party argued that the heavy crowds and deliberate noise cause fear and stress, questioning whether horses should still be used for Prinsjesdag ceremonies.
The group suggested that traditions could be continued using animal-friendly alternatives instead. One option put forward by the party is the use of electric carriages.
Onlookers at the beach largely defended the tradition, rejecting the idea of switching to electric vehicles. Some spectators noted that while a few horses appeared restless during the commotion, they felt the practice remains an essential part of the annual event.
