It was all fun and games as King Harald of Norway celebrated the 25th anniversary of his ascension to the throne over the weekend. The monarch joined his wife Queen Sonja and other members of the royal family for a day of winter games in front of the palace at Slottsplassen.
The couple wrapped up in padded coats and gloves to greet the crowds from the royal palace, before trying their hand at winter sports with other members of the family including Crown Prince Haakon and his wife Crown Princess Mette-Marrit.
© Photo: RexKing Harald celebrated the 25th anniversary of his ascension to the throne
Joining the royal party were Prince Sverre Magnus and Princess Ingrid Alexandra, as well as Princess Märtha Louise, who attended with her children Maud, Lea and Emma. The family appeared to be enjoying themselves as they tested out activities such as cross-country skiing, snowboarding, ski jumping and ice slides in honour of King Harald's milestone day.
© Photo: RexCrown Prince Haakon and Princess Ingrid Alexandra joined the fun
The event was organised at King Harald's request, with Royal Palace communications manager Marianne Hagen explaining prior to the games: "This will be a celebration in the spirit of the royal family, and it has been wonderful to get a taste of it now that snow has covered Slottsplassen and children are playing out there."
© Photo: RexQueen Sonja joined in the cross-country skiing event
As well as organising a number of events to commemorate the milestone, the royal family also released a series of new official portraits which includes a shot of the family posing in the line of succession, with King Harald joined by his son Crown Prince Haakon and granddaughter Princess Ingrid Alexandra, who is second in line to the throne.
Harald became king when his father Olav passed away from a heart attack on 17 January 1991. Speaking about how he felt when his father passed away, the King told Norway's NRK news: "He had been ill for some time. So we were somewhat prepared but you are never truly prepared to lose your father."
