King Harald V was reportedly planning a star-studded party for himself and his wife next year before he died in August. The late Norwegian King, who passed away on August 28 after a period of ill-health, reportedly wanted to have a joint 90th birthday party next year with his wife Queen Sonja.
Plans for the celebration
It is believed that Harald had already begun planning the party, which was set to be a three-day celebration in February 2027. It is known that a gala dinner was planned, but nothing else was in the works. Any plans that were in place have now understandably been called off.
As reported by Hola!, the plans were shared by the Norwegian outlet Dagbladet. It is believed that save-the-date letters were sent out in late June, asking guests to keep February 19 to February 21 next year free.
Guest list and invitations
The letter also reportedly said that a formal invitation would follow, although it is unclear whether these were ever sent. It is believed the guest list was set to be star-studded with the Norwegian royals and royals from around Europe.
Dagbladet reports that one of the letters was sent to Iceland's president, Halla Tómasdóttir, and her husband, Björn Skúlason.
Queen Sonja's future
The celebration was going to be very special for Harald and his wife Sonja, who had been married for almost 58 years. While it would have been Harald’s 90th birthday on February 21, Sonja’s birthday is not until July.
It is believed she will still mark her 90th birthday in some way; however, it could now be a private family affair. It is believed that since her husband’s death in August, Queen Sonja has been supported by her nearest and dearest.
Her and King Harald’s son is now King Haakon VIII and his heir is his daughter, Crown Princess Ingrid Alexandra.
