On January 1, 2026, Frederik and Mary of Denmark hosted a grand New Year Gala at Amalienborg Palace, marking the first major royal event of the year. This longstanding tradition invites key figures from Danish society, including the President of the Folketing and representatives from various sectors of public life, to celebrate the New Year in the opulent surroundings of the Danish monarchy.
The evening was notable for several reasons, including the return of Prince Joachim and his wife, Princess Marie, who recently returned to Denmark after spending Christmas in Washington. Their presence added a familial warmth to the occasion. In contrast, the absence of Princess Isabella attracted media attention, as local reports indicate she has not yet made a decision regarding her active role within the royal family, despite being 18 years old and eligible to attend the gala.
A Festive Atmosphere and Stunning Decor
Amalienborg Palace was adorned with exquisite floral arrangements, combining warm golden tones and vibrant shades of orange and ochre. Queen Mary played a significant role in selecting the flowers, which included a mix of roses, two varieties of orchids, and reddish eucalyptus. These arrangements were elegantly displayed on the historic Frederik VI dessert service, crafted in the 1830s at the Royal Porcelain Factory.
The gala’s atmosphere was further enhanced by music from the Royal Life Guards band, featuring compositions by renowned composers such as Strauss, Bizet, Walter, Viraud, and Seebach. This blend of visual and auditory splendor created a truly memorable evening for all attendees.
A Culinary Celebration of Danish Tradition
The dinner menu highlighted Denmark’s culinary heritage, featuring locally sourced ingredients and traditional flavors. Guests enjoyed a creamy cauliflower soup infused with Parisian herbs and Jutland truffles as an appetizer. The main course consisted of wild duck breast and confit legs, accompanied by an array of seasonal vegetables, including beetroot and scorzonera roots, all enhanced by a mild mustard sauce and horseradish.
One of the standout dishes was the Greenland snow crab, served with tomato chutney on a bed of fresh lettuce and sprouts from the gardens of Fredensborg Palace, complemented by a rich mussel cream. The evening concluded with a delightful dessert of walnut cake, pickled lemons, skyr cheese, and a mandarin Grand Marnier sauce.
To accompany the meal, wines from the Royal Family’s Château de Cayx in France were served, along with semi-dry Piper-Heidsieck champagne, further enriching the festive experience.
As guests mingled and celebrated the start of a new year, the gala served as a reminder of the enduring traditions of the Danish monarchy, blending elegance, culture, and community in a spectacular setting.
