Guests were given a warm welcome by Mr Marcel R Bosman, general manager of the hotel. Mr Boudewijn Revis, alderman of The Hague, was then invited to make a short speech.
For a Marian van Noort. photo album on the Christmas Three Lighting at Kurhaus, please click here: https://www.flickr.com/photos/121611753@N07/albums/72157662199505801
Mr Revis remarked on the privilege of attending the event for a second time, and congratulated Mr Bosman on the success of his efforts to renovate the Kurhaus. “The Kurhaus is back,” added Mr Revis. “Where would The Hague be without it?”
To laughter and applause, Mr Revis quipped that he would be willing to come back every year for the ceremony on the condition that the famous tree would be higher each time.
Then came the moment for which the crowds had been waiting. Silence fell, and all eyes fixed upon Mr Bosman and Mr Revis as their hands hovered above the red button. With a flourish, they pressed it – and the great tree sprung to life in a glorious blaze of white and gold.
Formalities completed, guests entered into the festive spirit and enjoyed the array of seasonal food and drink on offer.