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European RoyalsFeatures

When royal children “let loose” at christenings

While some royal christenings appear to be very formal, others are more relaxed, as in the case of the Danish, Dutch and Swedish royal families. Of course, we see these royal children more relaxed in christening settings because the baptisms are aired live on television, whereas the British, Luxembourgish and other royal families are not.

In Britain, the press and the public can see those entering the christenings, but they do not get to see the ceremonies themselves. So, there could be just as many adorable and chaotic moments from the British Royal Family’s christenings, but they have been kept private.

Below are some pictures and snapshots from Danish, Dutch and Swedish christenings where adorable royal chaos ensued and the children let loose, much to the enjoyment of their family and those watching.

When twins Prince Vincent and Princess Josephine of Denmark were christened in 2011, their older siblings, Prince Christian and Princess Isabella, had some fun while their parents and baby siblings posed for the press.

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Dutch Princess Ariane was christened in 2007 at the Cloister Church (Kloosterkerk), and many in the Dutch Royal Family turned out with their young children in tow. Chaos ensued, including the children crawling on the floor after the christening and while the preacher spoke while Queen Beatrix laughed at her grandchildren alongside the others in attendance.

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NOS Screenshot/Fair Use
NOS Screenshot/Fair Use

At Prince Alexander of Sweden’s christening in 2016, he played with his older cousin (by a month), Prince Oscar.

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During Prince Oscar’s 2016 christening at the Royal Chapel in Stockholm Palace, Princess Leonore was the centre of attention. She played with her toys on the floor and was joined by Oscar’s older sister, Princess Estelle. Leonore also knocked her chair backwards and fell over while a solo performance was taking place.

SVT/Fair Use
SVT/Fair Use

At Princess Adrienne’s christening in 2018, big sister, Princess Leonore stole the show. She took off her shoes and sat on the floor. Her cousin and brother also joined her in the floor at one point during the ceremony.

SVT/Fair Use
SVT/Fair Use
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After Princes Leonore’s christening in 2014, Princess Estelle got bored during the photo session in front of the press after the service and sat down on the ground.

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In Spain, Princess Leonor danced around during her sister, Infanta Sofía’s christening in 2007. Her family was seen laughing and smiling while she entertained herself and them.

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About author

Brittani is from Tennessee, USA. She is a political scientist and historian after graduating with a degree in the topics from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, in December 2014. She also holds a master's degree from Northeastern University. She enjoys reading and researching all things regarding the royals of the world. She's been researching, reading, and writing on royalty for over a decade. She became Europe Editor in October 2016, and then Deputy Editor in January 2019, and has been featured on several podcasts, radio shows, news broadcasts and websites including Global News Canada, ABC News Australia, WION India and BBC World News.