Yesterday, in the Inner Courtyard of the Royal Palace in Stockholm, Crown Princess Victoria celebrated her name day, as she does each year.
Her husband, Prince Daniel and their two children, seven-year-old Princess Estelle and three-year-old Prince Oscar also attended as the Crown Princess was presented with flowers and greeted the hundreds who had come out to see them.
The Swedish Armed Forces, from regiments in Livgardet, Southern Skåne, as well as the Army, also performed a tribute concert before the family greeted the awaiting public. Sweden’s future queen was showered with flowers and gifts – including a few books for her children and artwork.
The Crown Princess is presented with flowers by members of the Armed Forces. Photo: Henrik Garlöv / Kungl. Royal Court
Music played yesterday included ” Crown Princess Victoria’s Party March’, composed by the former music director of the Army, musician Mats Janhagen which premiered at the Crown Princess’s day of authority [when she became 18 and could serve as Regent] in 1995,” according to the Royal Court.
“Greeting” by Wilhelm Peterson-Berger and “The Swedish Military March” by Oswald Brodin were also performed.
It was a chilly day that saw everyone bundled up, and at one point, Estelle was seen hugging her brother and rubbing his shoulders trying to keep him warm.
Photo: Henrik Garlöv / Kungl. Royal Court
The Swedish Armed Forces have celebrated Victoria’s name day on 12 March since the 1990s. Crown Princess Victoria’s name day is traditionally celebrated in Sweden’s capital, but her birthday, 14 July, is celebrated annually in Öland.
Swedish tradition has people celebrating birthdays and name days, as almost every name has a specific day designated in Sweden. It is believed that once Crown Princess Victoria ascends the throne, Princess Estelle, who will then be Crown Princess of Sweden, will celebrate her name day publicly.
