COMING UP State Visit #18: Norway

King Philippe & Queen Mathilde's next state visit will take them to Norway from 24 March 2026 to 26 March 2026.

The state visit comes at a peculiar time in the history of the Norwegian monarchy. The past months Crown Princess Mette-Marit and her son from a previous relationship have been under heavy scrutiny and criticism. While the crown princess's special friendship with Jeffrey Epstein and her discontent about royal life were exposed in hundreds of emails, her son Marius Borg Højby is currently standing trial for multiple cases of rape, drug use and violence against women. He faces up to seven years in jail. Both Crown Prince Haakon and his daughter, Princess Ingrid have publicly taken Marius Borg's side without mentioning his victims. 

In a statement the Norwegian Royal House has announced Mette-Marit won't be taking part in the state visit because of the worsening state of her health. The crown princess is suffering from lung fibrosis and may be in need of a lung transplant. 

Also Princess Astrid (92), King Harald's sister, will be absent from the visit. She's recovering from a minor illness. 

Tuesday 24 March 2026

Official welcoming ceremony at the Palace Square

Wreath-laying ceremony at the National Monument, Akershus Fortress

Meeting with the President of the Storting

Gala dinner at the Royal Palace

Wednesday 25 March 2026

Event at the Nobel Peace Center

Business seminar on offshore wind energy 

Meeting with the Prime Minister

Government luncheon at Akershus Palace

Event on childhood and literacy

Reception hosted by the Belgian Royals at the National Museum

Thursday 26 March 2026

Crown Prince Haakon will accompany the Belgian Royals during a day visit to Stavanger.

Event on energy security at the Norwegian Petroleum Museum

Luncheon hosted by the Mayor of Stavanger
Program on defense cooperation at the Sola Air Station