- Categories:
- Appreciation
- Tags:
- AppreciationBirthdays
- Where:
- Norway
- Date change rule:
- Every February 21
- Holiday emoji:
- 👑
King Harald V’s Day celebrates Norway’s beloved monarch every February 21. Born on this day, King Harald V has profoundly shaped Norwegian society, making the monarchy more accessible and modern. Join in the national celebrations by raising a flag, toasting the king, and learning about his impactful reign.
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Expected King Harald V's Day Deals
King Harald V’s Day is a national observance in Norway, focusing on appreciation rather than commercial deals. While specific sales are not expected, Norwegian cultural institutions and travel companies may highlight opportunities to explore Norwegian heritage or royal history. Look for special events at museums, cultural centers, or perhaps even themed menus at Norwegian restaurants abroad. Businesses with ties to Norway might offer special acknowledgments or educational content. We will update this page with any confirmed live events or unique offerings as February 21 approaches.
Platform Guide for King Harald V's Day
Tag @nationaltoday_ and use #KingHaraldVsDay. Share photos of Norwegian flag displays, royal family facts, or personal messages of appreciation.
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Mention @NatlToday and use #KingHaraldVsDay. Discuss King Harald V’s impact on Norway, share news about the monarchy, or post celebratory tweets.
Mention National Today (facebook.com/nationaltoday) and use #KingHaraldVsDay. Share articles about Norwegian history, royal traditions, or organize virtual toasts to the King.
King Harald V's Day Hero
King Harald V
History of King Harald V's Day
Harald V spent his childhood in the shadow of World War II. When the Germans invaded in April 1940, the royal family had to flee Oslo. While his father stayed behind in Norway, Harald, his two sisters, and his mother, Crown Princess Märtha, left for Sweden. Eventually, the entire family would move to the United States, where Harald spent most of his childhood in Washington D.C.
After the Allied victory, the royal family returned to Norway in 1945 to assume their roles. When Harald’s father, Olav V, died in 1991, Harald became the new king of Norway — Harald V.
Since then, he’s built a reputation as Norway’s atypical king, much loved by his people. Reserved but highly effective, a royal to the bones but accessible to everyone. He’s also brave when it comes to matters of the heart. Harald V broke royal tradition by marrying for love. The now-Queen Sonja was a commoner and therefore off-bounds. Royals at the time could only marry other royals or nobility at the very least.
Like the U.K., Norway is a constitutional monarchy — which means the king does not exercise political power. Nor does he express a political opinion. However, King Harald V is a vocal supporter of L.G.B.T.Q+ rights and religious tolerance. His words have brought comfort to the Norwegians in difficult times, such as the 2011 terrorist attacks in the country.
King Harald V’s values and actions continue to make the monarchy popular in Norway — despite a growing Republican sentiment that wants to abolish the institution.
King Harald V's Day timeline
Harald V is born on 21 February at his parent’s home near Oslo.
Harald V becomes the new king after the death of his father.
Harald V voices his support for L.G.B.T.Q+ and refugee rights in a speech to the people.
In a speech that went viral on social media, Harald V says Norway believes “in God, in Allah, in the universe, and in nothing.”
How Businesses Can Celebrate King Harald V's Day
Local businesses in Norway and abroad can honor King Harald V’s Day by displaying the Norwegian flag and creating a festive atmosphere. Restaurants might feature traditional Norwegian dishes or offer a special toast to the King. Cultural centers and bookstores could highlight Norwegian literature, history, or art. Retailers selling Norwegian goods can promote their heritage and perhaps offer educational materials about the monarchy’s role in modern Norway, fostering a sense of national pride.
King Harald V's Day FAQs
When is King Harald V's Day?
In 2027, King Harald V’s Day will be observed on Sunday, February 21, providing a weekend opportunity for Norwegians to reflect on his impactful reign.
How old is King Harald V?
As of King Harald V’s Day in 2027, the beloved Norwegian monarch will be celebrating his 90th birthday, a significant milestone for the royal family and the nation.
Is King Harald V's Day a public holiday?
February 21 is an official flag day in Norway, encouraging public display of the national flag, but it does not grant a day off from work or school in 2027.
What is King Harald V known for?
Throughout his reign, King Harald V has been a unifying figure, celebrated for his progressive views, including advocating for LGBTQ+ rights and emphasizing the importance of diversity within Norwegian society.
King Harald V's Day Activities
Celebrate like the Norwegians
Join in the celebrations if you happen to be in this beautiful country. People celebrate the birthdays of the royal family by raising flags.
Learn about Norway
Did you know that the Norwegians invented skiing? Or that the country reads more than any other population in the world? Brush up on your Norway trivia today.
Cook a Norwegian meal
Make King Harold V proud by cooking a traditional Norwegian dish today. Consider making Fårikål — a mutton and cabbage stew, the Norwegian national dish. Easy to make, hearty, and delicious.
5 Facts About Norway That Will Blow Your Mind
Most Sami live in Norway
Half of the world’s Sami communities live in Norway’s Finnmark county.
World’s Longest Road Tunnel
The Lærdal Tunnel is the world’s longest and stretches for 15 miles.
The symbolism of the Sami Parliament
Not only does the parliament amplify Sami issues, but it is also shaped like a “lavvo” — the Sami tent.
Nobel Peace Prize
The Nobel Peace Prize has been awarded in Oslo since 1901.
A land border with Russia
The Storskog Crossing is the northernmost crossing border in all of Europe.
Why We Love King Harald V's Day
It pays homage to Norway
Norway celebrates the life and achievement of its current king. Today is also a tribute to Norwegian history and progress. It’s a country that consistently scores high on development, welfare, and happiness indexes.
It’s an example of multitudes
According to King Harald V, the world finds examples of how tradition can co-exist with modernity. Lessons on how not to dismiss everything as relics from the past.
Back to the future
We love celebrations that combine hints of nostalgia and glimpses of what could be. A royal birthday celebration is one of the few things that can effortlessly evoke this feeling.
King Harald V's Day dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2027 | February 21 | Sunday |
| 2028 | February 21 | Monday |
| 2029 | February 21 | Wednesday |
| 2030 | February 21 | Thursday |
| 2031 | February 21 | Friday |
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