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Norway

Norway’s heir, Crown Prince Haakon, celebrates milestone birthday

Crown Prince Haakon of Norway

The heir to the throne of Norway is marking a special birthday in a summer focused where the country’s monarchy is focusing on the future.

Crown Prince Haakon Magnus turns 50 on July 20th 2023 with the Royal Court issuing a new photo for the occasion and opening up an online portal for wellwishers to send congratulatory messages.

As he reached his half century, the Crown Prince was photographed with his family’s pet dog on a walk – a reflection of his long held passion for the outdoors and the environment.

The future king has been marking his milestone birthday through the year. Along with his wife, Crown Princess Mette-Marit who also turns 50 this summer, he has been visiting different parts of Norway. The couple will also hold a party in a few weeks as the Crown Princess celebrates her 50th birthday.

Haakon Magnus was born on July 20th 1973 at the Rikshospitalet in Oslo, the second child and first son of Harald and Sonja, then Crown Prince and Princess of Norway. On his father’s accession to the throne, Haakon became heir and Crown Prince. In recent years, he has taken on more responsibilities and has stood in for his father when King Harald’s health has stopped him carrying out his duties.

Haakon Magnus and Mette-Marit married in 2001 and have two children together. The Crown Prince is also step father to the Crown Princess’ son from a previous relationship.

The online birthday celebration book will remain open until midnight on July 20th 2023 and can be found here.

About author

Lydia Starbuck is Jubilee and Associate Editor at Royal Central and the main producer and presenter of the Royal Central Podcast and Royal Central Extra. Lydia is also a pen name of June Woolerton who is a journalist and writer with over twenty years experience in TV, radio, print and online. Her latest book, A History of British Royal Jubilees, is out now. Her new book, The Mysterious Death of Katherine Parr, will be published in March 2024. June is an award winning reporter, producer and editor. She's appeared on outlets including BBC 5 Live, BBC Radio Ulster and BBC Local Radio and has also helped set up a commercial radio station. June is also an accomplished writer with a wide range of material published online and in print. She is the author of two novels, published as e-books. She is also a marriage registrar and ceremony celebrant.