Party preparations

Planning for the celebration began long ago, and in recent days all departments of the Royal Court have been busy getting ready. By this evening everything must be just right for the nearly 380 people expected at the party in the Palace Courtyard.

People have been invited from all over the country. Guests include individuals the Crown Prince and Crown Princess have met during their many trips across Norway as well as project collaborators, members of patronage organisations and Norwegian government officials.

Forty-eight tables with place settings for all have been arranged in the Palace Courtyard. Here are a few glimpses from the preparations:

Hydrangeas, coneflowers, harvest anemones, ornamental grasses, heather and chrysanthemums are displayed in various parts of the celebration area. Potted trees such as lindens, Japanese maples and rowans will add a decorative touch before being planted permanently in parks. Photo: Liv Osmundsen, The Royal Court

Guests will pass a rustic scene as they walk through the Royal Palace’s main gate to the Courtyard. Photo: Liv Anette Luane, The Royal Court

 Chefs tending the grill. Photo: Liv Anette Luane, The Royal Court

The cake team prepares dessert: an individual birthday cake for each of the 48 tables. Photo: Liv Anette Luane, The Royal Court

A birthday cake at each table – sponge cake filled with strawberry jam and covered with vanilla mousse and white chocolate, then topped with Norwegian berries and meringues bearing a crown emblem. Photo: Liv Anette Luane, The Royal Court

The kitchen has been in full activity for several days. Carrots play a key role in one of the evening’s dishes, and must be peeled, blanched and trimmed. All 1,400 of them. Photo: Liv Anette Luane, The Royal Court

Tents have been set up in the Palace Courtyard to protect the guests from rain. Photo: Liv Anette Luane, The Royal Court

Feiringen vises av NRK og TV2 i kveld.