The Danish royal family gathered in full force on Friday to mark the beginning of Princess Isabella’s 18th birthday celebrations—an event filled with heartwarming moments, style, and a touch of royal sparkle.
While the only absent family member was her older brother, Crown Prince Christian, 19, who is currently completing his military training with the Grand Hussar Regiment, the rest of the family turned out in Aarhus to support Isabella on her milestone day.
A Royal Welcome
Crowds of well-wishers gathered outside Aarhus City Hall to greet the royals, cheering as Princess Isabella arrived looking radiant in a pale blue suit by Soeren Le Schmidt, one of Queen Mary’s favorite designers. With her poised demeanor and striking resemblance to her mother, Isabella truly looked like Queen Mary’s double.
The young royal beamed as she waved to the public and graciously accepted a posy of vibrant red flowers—just one of many thoughtful touches throughout the day.
A Family Affair
Queen Mary, 53, and Princess Josephine, 14, twinned in stylish white coats, while King Frederik, 56, and Prince Vincent, also 14, were dapper in coordinating suits. Observers couldn’t help but notice how tall Vincent has grown—another sign of how fast the royal children are maturing.
A Milestone Speech
During the event, Princess Isabella delivered her first official public speech, reflecting on her deep ties to Aarhus and childhood memories spent in the city.
“It makes me really happy to be celebrated in a city that has great meaning to me and my family,” she said. “Here I have celebrated Christmas and Easter, taken walks in the garden and by the water, and enjoyed myself in the Old Town since I was little.”
She continued with heartfelt gratitude: “I have many good memories from Aarhus—today I have another. And there will definitely be more. Thank you for the dance and music, the show and the cake. I have pursued many hobbies myself, and it has been a shortcut to joy, friendship and community for me. I am sure it is for you too.
Thank you for the birthday song, a whole book of greetings, and for the beautiful piece of jewellery. The fact that you have chosen to celebrate me, and that so many have come together, makes me happy and touched. You should know that it means a lot to me.”
A Special Gift
To commemorate the occasion, the Municipality of Aarhus presented Princess Isabella with a meaningful gift—a 14-karat gold bracelet crafted by local goldsmith Trine Wilkens. The stunning piece was handed to the princess by Aarhus mayor Anders Winnerskjold.
A Surprising Finale
The celebrations wrapped with a delightful surprise as acrobats and gymnasts revealed a large birthday banner from the rooftop of City Hall—leaving the royal family smiling and the crowd cheering.
With her poise, charm, and striking presence, Princess Isabella has clearly stepped into her role as a young royal with grace—following beautifully in Queen Mary’s footsteps.
