The birthday of Queen Sonja of Norway is celebrated every July 4. This day is observed in Norway as an official flag flying day, honoring the queen's contributions and status. Queen Sonja, born Sonja Haraldsen in 1937, began her relationship with Crown Prince Harald in 1959, which was initially kept secret due to her commoner status. Their engagement was announced in March 1968, and they married later that year in Oslo Cathedral. Following the death of King Olav V in 1991, Harald ascended to the throne, making Sonja the first queen consort in Norway in over 50 years. Queen Sonja is known for her charitable work, including establishing the Queen Sonja International Music Competition in 1988.