Frederick of Denmark and Mary Donaldson exhibit tradition and unity on their first Christmas as Kings

In the winter stillness of Aarhus, Denmark’s second largest city, lThe Danish Royal Family has been more united than ever in celebrations full of meaning. This December, the Christmas traditions of the Danes have been enriched by the presence of Christian from Denmark, who recently returned home after an exciting three-month adventure in East Africa. The return of the young prince has been one more reason to celebrate within a family that, this year, is experiencing its first Christmas with Federico and Mary as Kings of Denmark.

A return loaded with symbolism

The return of Christian, Federico and Mary’s firstborn, It is not just the reunion of a child with his home. It is also a moment that underlines the commitment of the Royal Family to the values ​​of unity and service. At 19 years old, the young prince has shown that, in addition to being an heir to the throne, he is a curious young man and committed to the world. His stay in East Africa has given him a unique vision of nature and biodiversity, values ​​that will undoubtedly permeate his future work as a representative of his country.

The first public event of the family reunion was the traditional visit to the Aarhus Cathedral on December 25. In the heart of this majestic Gothic church, the Royal Family caught everyone’s attention as they got off the official vehicles and walked together towards the temple. Queen Margaret, always true to form, led the pack in a red checked suit and elegant black mink coat. At her side, Christian showed himself to be a gentleman in training, helping his grandmother with the serenity of someone who understands his role in the historical fabric of Denmark.

Federico and Mary: Elegance and naturalness

Frederick and Mary from Denmark arrived shortly after, accompanied by their three youngest children: Isabel, Vicente and Josephine. The family image radiated warmth and closeness, a constant in this family that has managed to balance the demands of its position with the humanity that Danish citizens value so much. Mary, considered a style icon, opted for a striking orange Max Mara coat, combined with a gray dress and silver boots. Her daughter Isabel, heir to her mother’s good taste, dazzled in an elegant double-breasted black coat.

The scene, framed by the cheers of the public gathered in front of the cathedral, was a testament to the deep affection that the Danes feel for their Royal Family. In a world where monarchies struggle to find their place, the Bourbon-Denmarks have managed to maintain their relevance by being loyal to traditions without giving up modernity.

Renewed traditions

On Christmas Day, the Royal Family returned to the same cathedral to attend Christmas mass. This time, without Frederick and Mary’s children, who remained at home, Queen Margaret stood out in a green suit and the same mink coat she wore on Christmas Eve. Federico and Mary, for their part, showed their usual elegance, this time with a more sober and practical style, suitable for the solemnity of the day.

Christmas at Marselisborg Castle, the family’s traditional residence during these dates, has been a constant in the lives of the Bourbon-Denmarks. This enclave, located in the Jutland region, almost 200 kilometers from Copenhagen, is a refuge where generations of the Royal House celebrate the spirit of Christmas together.

A new chapter: Federico and Mary as Kings

This year, however, the holidays have had a special meaning. Frederick and Mary celebrate their first Christmas as Kings, after the abdication of Queen Margaret in January 2024. The queen, who for 52 years led the monarchy with intelligence and sensitivity, handed over the throne to her eldest son in a gesture of renewal that many applauded it as a timely and successful move.

Since his proclamation, Frederick has proven to be a modern monarch, committed to the challenges of the 21st century, but deeply rooted in the traditional values ​​of his country. Its motto, “United and committed for the Kingdom of Denmark”, reflects this duality between modernity and continuity.

On January 1, Federico will give his first New Year’s speech, an event of enormous importance in Denmark. This speech, broadcast from Amalienborg Castle, is an opportunity for the new King to set the tone for his reign. Expectation is high, and throughout the country there is speculation about the topics it will address, from climate change to national unity.

The family as a symbol of unity

The prominence of the Royal Family on these dates is no coincidence. In a world marked by uncertainty, monarchies represent an emotional and cultural anchor for their countries. Federico and Mary have been able to build an image of a modern and close family, something that resonates deeply in a society that values ​​both tradition and innovation.

The Christmas festivities, with their moments of solemnity in the cathedral and warmth in the castle, are a reflection of this duality. The Danish Royal House has managed to maintain its relevance by being faithful to its roots, but also opening its doors to modernity. In this balance between old and new, the Bourbon-Denmarks find their strength and charm.

Thus, while the echoes of Christmas carols still resonate in Aarhus and the lights of Marselisborg Castle illuminate the cold Danish night, the Royal Family is preparing for a new year full of challenges and opportunities. United by love and duty, Frederick, Mary and their children begin a chapter that, although full of challenges, promises to be marked by the same spirit of unity and commitment that has always defined the kings of Denmark.