King Harald V’s Day
King Harald V’s Day is a holiday that’s observed in Norway on the 21st of February. It commemorates King Harald V of Norway—a monarch who acceded to the throne of this country on January 17, 1991. Although this holiday isn’t a public holiday, and as such most businesses and schools remain open on this day, it is celebrated with the raising of Norway’s flag.
Norway (Flag day)This flag is also raised on the birthday of his wife Queen Sonja Haraldsen, Crown Prince Haakon, and his wife Crown Princess Mette Marit. Another Royal Flag Day is the birthday of Princess Ingrid Alexandra, who is next in the line of succession.
The History Of King Harald V’s Day
Harald V was born on February 21, 1937, in Skaugum, Norway. He was the youngest of three children born to his father, Olav, and his mother, Crown Princess Märtha. However, he was the only son, so he would become the crown prince of Norway when his father became king in 1957.
Harald began a controversial courtship with a commoner named Sonja, and it’s been reported that he threatened to never wed anyone if he was prevented from wedding her. Eventually, his father gave his consent and Harald and Sonja were married on August 29, 1968. They would go on to have two children: Märtha Louise and Haakon Magnus. When Harald’s father died on January 17, 1991, he would become king of Norway.
Observing King Harald V’s Day In Norway
On this day, official birthday ceremonies are held for King Harald V. Some Norwegians also celebrate his birthday on a smaller scale. During this day, Norwegians also raise the flag of Norway and this flag is also raised on all government buildings as well.
People can also expect to see celebratory bunting using the colors of the flag line many streets—especially the streets of Oslo. On social media, the hashtag #KingHaraldVDay is often used to spread the word about this day.
Norway (Flag day)
