Although it is only October, the holiday season is fast approaching. Queen Mary of Denmark welcomed a favourite holiday tradition as she unveiled the 2024 Christmas Stamp. 

Queen Mary visited Copenhagen City Hall to carry out a special tradition now in its 117th year, the annual Christmas stamp. Each year, the stamp has a different design, and this year’s stamp has been created in honour of the new King and Queen of Denmark. 

Embed from Getty Images

Including their official portrait, the stamp’s design this year calls on Denmark’s history with Viking ships and modern Royal ships, the Constitution, and the runes found on the Jellingestenen (Jelling Stones). It includes references to Denmark in 2024, with an astronaut (Andreas Mogensen) and the Danish climate and biomes. 

The Danish royals is also included with drawings of a family running, referencing King Frederik’s annual run. 

Artist Niels Ditlev joined Queen Mary for the unveiling. 

Embed from Getty Images

The Christmas stamp is a Danish holiday tradition that was originally started by Einar Holbøll, a postal clerk who hoped to raise money for sick children. The money raised now goes to Julemærkefonden, a charity that helps offer support for children and teens suffering from mental health issues and the effects of bullying. 

Queen Louise quickly provided support for the initiative and members of the Danish Royal Family have continued to be involved since. 

Queen Margrethe appeared on the Christmas stamp several times during her reign, and designed the stamp herself in 1970, 2003, and 2015.