Royal children lead the Children's Parade

As celebrations for Norway's Constitution Day got under way, it was the next generation of royals who were leading the way.  Princess Ingrid and Prince Sverre helped their parents welcome the traditional Children's Parade to Asker at the beginning of a day of events marking the 200th anniversary of Norway's independence and the signing of its constitution.

Ingrid Alexandra and Sverre Magnus of Norway at their country's Constitution Day celebrations on May 17 2014

The girl who will be queen and the boy who is her heir were in traditional dress for the occasion but while their parents, Haakon Magnus and Mette-Marit, were also in special outfits they stayed in the background with the Crown Princess' eldest son, Marius, while the youngest royals of Norway's court took centre stage.  And they seemed to have a great time doing it as Ingrid and Sverre giggled as they waved their flags.

The stars of the show - Ingrid and Sverre of Norway on Constitution Day

Later, the princess and prince joined King Harald, Queen Sonja and their parents on the balcony of the Royal Palace in Oslo to greet the main Children's Parade as it made its way through the streets of the capital.  And again, it was Ingrid and Sverre at the forefront of the royal participation in the day's events to mark Norway's 200th birthday.  Their grandfather, Harald V, spoke about the importance of the Constitution and its role in the past, present and future in securing Norway's society and its values.  And as the country looks back and forward, it is perhaps fitting that the next generation of royals are at the heart of commemorations and celebrations.  

The younger generation lead the celebrations in Oslo as Norway marks the 200th anniversary of its constitution