ROYAL PROCESSION: Monarchs Frederik and Mary Travel Copenhagen in Ornate Chariot (Golden Carriage)
*Golden Chariots & New Year's Traditions: A Danish Royale Vibe!*
By: Michael Barrett
Every January, a 24-carat golden chariot hauls Denmark's monarch through the heart of Copenhagen, a spectacle that never fails to tickle the chuckle of locals and tourists alike. Let's dive into the Danish Royale vibe of this golden chariot tradition that's a part of their New Year's celebrations.
The Golden Chariot's Annual Gallivant
On a crisp January morning, the monarch (currently King Frederik) hops onto this gilded chariot for a journey through the avenues of central Copenhagen. The public has been yearning for a peek of the royals bundled up in this golden spectacle, braving the winter weather to catch a glimpse on Tuesday.
Post lunchtime (around 1:30 PM), the King and Queen embark on the return journey from the seat of parliament, Christiansborg, to the royal residence, Amalienborg.
Cavalry Soldiers in Blue & Red Uniforms
As the golden chariot negotiates its way through the capital, it's escorted by the Guard Hussar Regiment's horse squadron, decked out in traditional blue and red uniforms. This sight, despite the January gloom, adds a touch of charm to the proceedings.
A Rare Display of Regal Pomp
The annual golden chariot ride is one of the rare instances when you'll witness the Danish monarchy reveling in extravagant rituals. It's a far cry from the usual low-key, understated approach they're known for.
The customary New Year's levee and reception were held on January 1st at Christian VII's Palace at Amalienborg. These events, hosted by the King and Queen (and previously by Queen Margrethe), are a part of New Year's celebrations hosted for the benefit of the government, speaker of parliament, and official representatives of Denmark and the palace.
Other Levees & Invited Guests
New Year's levees also take place on January 6th and 7th (at Christian VII's Palace and Christiansborg). Invited guests include Supreme Court judges, military officers, representatives of major national organizations, "the upper classes of rank," and royal protectorates.
A Rich History of Traditions
The tradition of the Royal Palace wishing 'Denmark' a Happy New Year by inviting its elite classes to dinner and bidding the nation a prosperous year goes back centuries. Many of the traditions included in the carriage trip have roots dating back to the 1600s. The present carriage was built for Christian VIII in 1840, with 24-carat gold leaf for that extra bling.
Cancellations & Post-War Changes
Though a well-established ceremonial custom, the Levee has seen cancellations in recent years. It was cancelled in 2005 due to the South East Asian tsunami on December 26, 2004, and in 2021 and 2022 due to Covid-19 restrictions. The tradition of using the golden carriage in these events is a more recent one, with the third such carriage ride taking place in 2022.
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See Also
- Denmark's Queen Margrethe leaves hospital
- Rail services between Sweden and Denmark reduced during Easter week
- Denmark's Queen Margrethe hospitalized with cold
- Why you won't have to wait long for the next Danish public holiday
- The royal home-and-garden, Amalienborg, provides a breathtaking backdrop to the elaborate art of the golden chariot's annual journey.
- In between the festivities, you might find tranquility in Copenhagen's space, indulging in its plethora of lifestyle offerings, such as art galleries and cozy cafes.
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