Prince William to Attend King Harald V’s Funeral in Oslo
The Royal House announced today that the Prince of Wales will travel to Norway to attend the burial ceremony of King Harald V on Wednesday, 9 Sept‑24. The late monarch, who reigned for 35 years, died on 21 Aug‑24 at the age of 89.
Princess Anne will also attend in a personal capacity, as the godmother to King Haakon VIII, Norway’s new sovereign. The procession will begin at the Royal Palace Chapel, move to Oslo Cathedral for a public service, and conclude with a private burial in the royal mausoleum at Akershus Fortress.
A large turnout is expected, with thousands lining the streets in Oslo and crowds at the palace to pay their respects during King Harald’s lying‑in‑state period.
King Haakon released an emotional televised speech: "Thank you for being such a good dad," he said, underscoring the late king’s reputation as a "people’s monarch" who modernised the monarchy by marrying a commoner and championing unity.
King Charles of UK praised King Harald for his unwavering dedication, calling him a guide to Norway through times of change, while keeping the ceremony strictly limited to the royal family and close advisers.
The Norwegian royal family faces recent scrutiny, including Queen Mette‑Marit’s apology for a friendship with Jeffrey Epstein and her son Marius’ conviction for rape. These scandals add complexity to the coronation of King Haakon, who is stepping into a crown during a turbulent time.
Prince William’s presence underscores the solidarity between the British and Norwegian monarchies, while King Charles, who returned to Scotland after a meeting with President Macron at the Bayeux Tapestry, will host Prime Minister Andy Burnham at Balmoral next weekend.
The funeral is scheduled to fill Oslo’s streets with about 1.5 million mourners and will serve as a focal point for both Norwegian and European royal families, reaffirming monarchic bonds across nations.
