Norway royals release their annual Christmas card 

The Norwegian royal family have released their annual Christmas portrait, putting on a cheery display from the royal palace in Oslo.

Reigning King Harald and Queen Sonja, both 84, can be seen beaming in the front, while Crown Princess Mette-Marit and Crown Prince Haakon, both 48, stand behind them with their children Princess Ingrid Alexandra, 17, Prince Sverre Magnus, 16.

While the family were forced to adhere to social distancing rules last year amid concerns for King Harald’s safety during the pandemic, the royals were able to sit next to each other for the latest festive photo. 

The Norwegian royal family have released their annual Christmas portrait, putting on a cheery display from the royal palace in Oslo

Injecting a splash of colour, Queen Sonja stole the limelight in a red shirt and plaid skirt, along with a Gucci leather belt and heels – adding a touch of sparkle with a glitter embellished cardigan. 

Meanwhile Crown Princess Mette-Marit opted fora black poloneck and polka dot skirt, while daughter Ingrid continued the monochrome theme in a white poloneck and jumper skirt.

King Harald and Princes Haakon and Sverre opted for coordinating navy blue suits and ties, looking regal in front of the backdrop of the grand Christmas tree, gilded portraits and  chandelier.

Further pictures show golden wallpaper, oriental rugs and a pile of neatly wrapped Christmas presents. 

Reigning King Harald and Queen Sonja, both 84, can be seen beaming in the front, while Crown Princess Mette-Marit and Crown Prince Haakon, both 48, stand behind them with their children Princess Ingrid Alexandra, 17, Prince Sverre Magnus, 16

Last year  King Harald was admitted into hospital with breathing difficulties in late September, although he tested negative for Covid.

In the wake of his father’s condition, Crown Prince Haakon had been stepping in and taking over his father’s duties.

King Harald, who ascended to the throne after the death of his father King Olav on January 17 1991, was also admitted to hospital last year and underwent two weeks sick leave.

Meanwhile Crown Princess Mette-Marit opted fora black poloneck and polka dot skirt, while daughter Ingrid continued the monochrome theme in a white poloneck and jumper skirt

Speaking at the time, Crown Prince Haakon said it was a difficult period for the family and his father was recovering from dizziness but no serious illness was found.

Crown Prince Haakon has stepped in for his father on several previous occasions including when he became ill in April 2018 with congestion and pain in one foot.

King Harald, who is the country’s first native-born king since the 14th century, won the nation’s hearts when he married a commoner.

He was also praised globally for a 2016 speech showing support for gay rights, saying: ‘Norwegians are girls who love girls, boys who love boys, and girls and boys who love each other.’

King Harald and Princes Haakon and Sverre opted for coordinating navy blue suits and ties, looking regal in front of the backdrop of the grand Christmas tree, gilded portraits and chandelier