Prince Haakon of Norway has been celebrating his 40th birthday in style. The prince, who turned 40 on Saturday, arrived at Skaugum Palace by parachute before enjoying a two-day festival themed party with his family and friends. Haakon's wife, Princess Mette-Marit, who turns 40 next month, had organised the party to perfection, ensuring that the couple's blue-blooded friends, King Willem-Alexander and Queen Maxima of the Netherlands and Princess Mary of Denmark were present.
The relaxed atmosphere and wonderful weather meant that the royals were able to wear more casual clothing than usual. Mette-Marit sported a selection of light summery dresses and her husband strolled the palace grounds wearing t-shirts and shorts. Denmark's Princess Mary chose a floral maxi dress, accessorised with large sunglasses and tied her hair up in a bun.
Live music, including a performance from Prince Haakon himself, was the event's highlight and when the royal took to the stage with his sister, Princess Märtha Louise, he thanked the host of artists and performers making the occasion so special.Inbetween the weekend's event Haakon and Mette-Marit showed that they are just as much in love as ever, holding hands and sharing several kisses as enjoyed the company of their friends and family.
With the exception of Haakon's parents, King Harald and Queen Sonja who stayed in their summer residence, Bygdo Kongsgård, all the guests stayed in tents set up in the palace's grounds. Haakon arrived for the party on Saturday morning, landing safely in the palace grounds to be greeted by his excited family, who had organised the event.
"The Crown Prince turns 40 years old today," read a message on the Norwegian royal household's official Facebook page. "He arrived at Skaugum by parachute a short time ago, and the celebrations with friends and family will begin in time."The couple have already acknowledged their landmark birthdays by releasing a series of special photographs in June.