New Royal Couple Set to Arrive in Gråsten, Boosting Local Tourism and Trade
The streets of Gråsten are closed off today as the royal family is due to arrive in town this afternoon, a tradition they have upheld many times before. However, this year is different as it is the new royal couple who will be making their entrance into this southern Jutland town.
“There is always a buzz in Gråsten when the royals are here. It’s as if the town awakens from a deep sleep,” says Dorris Pørksen Schmidt, innkeeper of The Old Inn in Gråsten.
The Old Inn in Gråsten is adorned with pictures of Queen Ingrid and Queen Margrethe. The innkeeper plans to add Queen Mary to the collection.
Queen Margrethe has used Gråsten Castle as a summer residence for many years. This year, however, it is King Frederik and Queen Mary who are the first to arrive at the castle.
“I was never in doubt that they would continue to stay at Gråsten Castle. They understand their importance to Gråsten,” says Helle Blindbæk, chairwoman of the local parish council and board member of the local trade association in Gråsten.
She emphasizes that the local trade scene booms during the weeks of the royal visit.
“It is significant that they are coming today. Along with the royal family, tourists also come, and we are a tourist town. We have been looking forward to their arrival, and we are delighted,” says Helle Blindbæk.
The Danish flag is flying in Gråsten today. The royal summer stay at Gråsten Castle has a positive impact on the town’s revenue, according to Helle Blindbæk.
During the change of throne in January, the mayor of the municipality was concerned about whether the royals would return to Gråsten as usual for the summer. So far, these worries have proven unfounded, he admits.
“Fortunately, they are coming today, and we are very excited,” says Erik Lauritzen, the mayor of Sønderborg Municipality.
Among the town’s shops is the clothing store 2Dreams. They notice a buzz in the town before the royal couple arrives at 4 p.m.
“As soon as the royals are in town, many tourists come. It has a huge significance for us in Gråsten. We simply can’t do without them. We are royalists here in Gråsten,” says Jonna Seemann, owner of 2Dreams.
Back at The Old Inn, pictures of Queen Ingrid and Queen Margrethe hang on the walls. There’s still a space left for the new queen, assures innkeeper Dorris Pørksen Schmidt.
“Today is a celebration day. Summer starts in Gråsten today. We have been really looking forward to it,” she says.
She has called in all the staff today. And a brand new flag has been purchased for the flagpole, so that the Danish flag can fly in the southern Jutland wind.