Frederik and Mary of Denmark hosted the first significant royal gala of 2026 on January 1, continuing a cherished tradition. This annual New Year’s dinner at Amalienborg Palace typically welcomes the President of the Folketing (Parliament), dignitaries from across the nation, and various members of the royal court. This year’s event was characterized by notable absences and a distinctly Danish menu.
One of the evening’s most surprising elements was the absence of Princess Isabella. At 18 years old, she is eligible to attend the gala but has reportedly not yet determined her role within the Danish monarchy. Meanwhile, Prince Joachim and his wife, Princess Marie, returned to the palace after spending Christmas in Washington, D.C., where they have resided since 2023. Their presence, along with that of Queen Margrethe, her sister Princess Benedikte, and Crown Prince Christian, added to the royal atmosphere of the evening.
Elegant Decor and Exquisite Cuisine
The gala’s decor was a testament to Danish elegance, featuring stunning floral arrangements crafted in warm, golden tones. Queen Mary played a significant role in selecting the flowers, which included roses, two types of orchids, and reddish eucalyptus. These were artfully displayed on the Frederik VI dessert service, a historical collection designed in the 1830s at the Royal Porcelain Factory.
The dinner menu, a highlight of the evening, showcased local Danish cuisine. Guests enjoyed a creamy cauliflower soup flavored with Parisian herbs and Jutland truffles. The first course featured Greenland snow crab accompanied by tomato chutney, lettuce, and sprouts harvested from the gardens of Fredensborg Palace. The main course consisted of wild duck breast and confit legs served with beetroot, scorzonera roots, roasted leek, a mild mustard sauce, and horseradish. Dessert rounded off the meal with a walnut cake paired with pickled lemons, skyr cheese, and mandarin Grand Marnier sauce.
The royal event also featured wines from the royal family’s Château de Cayx in France, complemented by semi-dry Piper-Heidsieck champagne. Musical performances by the Royal Life Guards band entertained guests with selections from composers such as Strauss, Bizet, Walter, Viraud, and Seebach.
The evening not only celebrated the beginning of a new year but also highlighted the rich cultural heritage and culinary traditions of Denmark. As the Royal Family continues to navigate its modern image, events like the New Year Gala serve as a reminder of their enduring connection to Danish customs and the community.
