Queen Margrethe II turned 85 today, April 16, 2025, but unlike in previous decades, her birthday was celebrated behind closed doors at Fredensborg Slot. The low-key gathering reflects a shift in the Danish monarchy’s public presence following her abdication in January 2024, when she handed over the throne to her son, now King Frederik X.
A symbolic change in royal tradition
Historically, Queen Margrethe’s birthday was celebrated with cheering crowds and Danish flags waving on Amalienborg Slotsplads. This year, however, the event was more restrained—a conscious and symbolic decision. According to DR royal commentator Thomas Larsen, “It shows that she meant it when she abdicated. She has left the big stage to the royal couple and their children.”
Larsen described the enthusiastic support recently shown during Princess Isabella’s 18th birthday as “the best birthday gift” Queen Margrethe could have wished for. “She must be truly pleased with the strong public support that the new royal couple and their children are receiving. It clearly shows that the transition from Queen Margrethe to King Frederik has been a success.”
Official portraits and musical tribute
To mark the occasion, the Royal House (Kongehuset) released two official birthday portraits of Queen Margrethe. Taken at Fredensborg Slot, the images show her wearing a brooch in the shape of a marguerite flower—a personal symbol. The English name for the flower, “daisy,” is also her nickname in Denmark.
A musical celebration was held at noon during the traditional changing of the guard. The Royal Life Guards Music Corps (Den Kongelige Livgardes Musikkorps) performed a short birthday concert attended by the Queen, the royal couple, and other members of the royal family from the palace’s main staircase. Citizens of Fredensborg were invited to gather in the courtyard to witness the moment and take part in the celebration.
A private celebration at Fredensborg Slot
After the concert, King Frederik and Queen Mary hosted a private lunch at Fredensborg Slot. The day’s events concluded with a formal dinner in the evening, attended by family, friends, and representatives of the royal court.
This is the second birthday Queen Margrethe has celebrated since stepping down from the throne, and just like in 2024, she chose to mark it in private surroundings, far from the public spotlight.
From monarch to respected matriarch
Queen Margrethe’s 85th birthday may have passed without the grandeur of earlier years, but it stands as a testament to her graceful transition from sovereign to elder stateswoman.
As Denmark’s longest-reigning monarch and now its royal matriarch, she remains a beloved figure—respected not only for her reign but also for her quiet strength in ushering in a new era for the Danish monarchy. Her enduring popularity and dignified presence continue to shape the public’s deep affection for the royal family. of earlier years, but it stands as a testament to her graceful transition from sovereign to elder stateswoman.
