Birthday of Princess Ingrid Alexandra 2025
Date: January 21, 2025 (Tuesday)
Country: Svalbard & Jan Mayen Public Holidays
Description
The Birthday of Princess Ingrid Alexandra is the day people mark the birth of Norways young royal. It honors her role in the royal family and celebrates the future of the Norwegian monarchy.
The date is January 21 each year. That is her actual birthday. On this day official flags are raised in Svalbard and Jan Mayen just like in the rest of Norway.
For people in these territories the day shows connection to the Norwegian state. Svalbard and Jan Mayen are parts of Norway, so royal days are observed there as a sign of unity.
The birthday is significant because Princess Ingrid Alexandra is next in line to the throne after her father. Her generation represents continuity and hope for the future of Norways constitutional monarchy.
Even though the islands are remote, marking royal birthdays helps maintain national identity. The day reminds people of shared history, leadership, and the role of the royal family in Norwegian public life.
Traditions
In Svalbard people often raise the Norwegian flag and sing birthday songs. Small towns like Longyearbyen hold community gatherings with music, brass players or choirs, and children taking part in simple parades or games outdoors when weather allows.
Food includes layer cakes, cookies and coffee for adults. Families and neighbors bring homemade treats to share. Some wear traditional bunads for a formal feel, while kids get sweets and small gifts during school or club parties.
On Jan Mayen the island station staff celebrate together with a flag, cake cutting and toasts. They exchange cards, sing, and sometimes stream greetings to the mainland. The mood is warm and communal despite the remote location.
Travel Tips
Check opening hours and book ahead. In Svalbard expect some shops and offices in Longyearbyen to have reduced hours and local events that make transport and tours busy. Jan Mayen has almost no services and no regular visitors, so plan with a guided expedition.
Stay safe by joining guided trips, keeping distance from wildlife, and carrying ID and warm gear. Respect local rules, bring cash or cards if shops are open, and support community events or small local businesses when they are running.