The soon-to-be King and Queen of Denmark, Princess Mary and Crown Prince Frederik have brought a touch of sparkle to Queen Margrethe II’s final annual New Year’s Court and Banquet, the enchanting affair unfolding in the grandeur of Christian VII’s Palace, Amalienborg in Copenhagen.
Australia’s beloved Princess Mary stole the show and wowed royal watchers in a chic long-sleeved burgundy velvet dress that exuded timeless charm.
Completing her look was the Danish Ruby Parure Tiara, casting a radiant glow and setting the stage for the upcoming shift in Denmark’s royal leadership.
Crown Prince Frederik made a debonair entrance in military attire, offering a glimpse of the charisma that will define his upcoming reign.
Both Princess Mary and Crown Prince Frederik sported a distinctive gold chain adorned with the honorary Order of the Elephant, a nod to Europe’s medieval strength dating back to 1693.
Worn only on three occasions annually, this prestigious order added a touch of regal charm, symbolising a connection to Denmark’s rich history and a commitment to tradition.
Eager royal watchers couldn’t help but be amazed by Princess Mary and Crown Prince Frederik, their excitement building as the couple gets ready to become the new monarchs.
“Our beautiful crown prince and prince couple,” one wrote.
“We are getting a beautiful royal couple.”
“So regal and beautiful is the new Aussie Queen Mary,” another commented.
“Beautiful royal couple to be.”
Mary’s scene-stealing appearance comes after Queen Margrethe II announced her abdication after an illustrious 52-year reign, setting the stage for Princess Mary to ascend as the next Queen of Denmark alongside her husband.
“The surgery naturally gave rise to thinking about the future – whether the time had come to leave the responsibility to the next generation,” the Queen said while announcing she was stepping down.
“I have decided that now is the right time. On 14 January 2024 – 52 years after I succeeded my beloved father – I will step down as queen of Denmark.
“I leave the throne to my son, Crown Prince Frederik.”
The New Year’s Banquet echoed with a sense of nostalgia for the Queen’s reign. Attendees, dressed in their regal best, gathered not just to bid farewell to the past but to usher in a future filled with promise for the Danish monarchy.
During her New Year’s address, Denmark’s Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen said she saw a new chapter opening for Denmark after Queen Margrethe announced her abdication.
“We will miss Queen Margrethe, whom we love so much,” she said.
“I am sure that the crown prince will be a good and strong king for Denmark and the entire kingdom.”
As the nation prepares for this significant change, attention turns to the Australian-born princess, who captured the heart of the Danish heir during the 2000 Olympics, as she prepares to make history as the first Aussie to take the title of queen.
-with DPA.