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The Spanish Royal Family, King Felipe VI and Queen Letizia, extended New Year’s wishes to the public via a post on their official instagram account on January 1st, 2026. The message emphasized hopes for a year filled with “renewed hopes, new opportunities and shared successes,” grounded in “unity, responsibility and commitment to the common good.” https://www.instagram.com/casarealspain/ This message marks the third public communication from the Royal Family during the Christmas and New Year period.
Recent Royal Family Communications
The New Year’s message follows a series of customary engagements and communications. These include:
* Christmas Card: The Royal Family released a traditional Christmas card featuring an unpublished family photograph taken in Valdesoto, Asturias, during the Princess of Asturias Awards ceremony. https://www.hola.com/realeza/casa-real/2024/12/26/252219/christmas-card-king-felipe-letizia-leonor-sofia/
* King Felipe’s New Year’s Speech: King Felipe VI delivered his annual New Year’s address on December 24th, 2025. notably, this was the first time the speech was delivered standing up and from within the Royal Palace, a departure from previous settings.https://english.elpais.com/spain/2025/12/25/king-felipe-calls-for-unity-in-new-years-eve-speech.html
Upcoming Engagements and Family Time
The Royal Family’s first official engagement of 2026 is expected to be the Epiphany Gala, also known as the Military Easter celebration, on January 6th. Princess Leonor is anticipated to attend this event. https://www.rtve.es/noticias/20260105/reyes-asistiran-cabalgata-reyes-magos-palacio-real-madrid/2451464.shtml
Currently, the King and queen, along with their daughters, Princess Leonor and Infanta Sofía, are enjoying a period of leisure and cultural activities, including attending theatrical performances as a family. Reports indicate that a trip to Abu dhabi to celebrate the 88th birthday of King Juan Carlos I is not planned. https://www.theguardian.com/world/2026/jan/04/spanish-royal-family-no-plans-to-visit-juan-carlos-in-abu-dhabi
The Royal Family’s presence on social media, specifically Instagram, was established in June 2024 to commemorate the tenth anniversary of King Felipe VI’s accession to the throne. This platform provides a direct channel for the Royal Family to connect with the public and share updates on their activities.
the Spanish Royal Family has begun 2026 with messages of hope and unity, continuing a tradition of public engagement and communication. As the year progresses, the Royal Family is expected to balance official duties with family time and cultural pursuits, maintaining a visible and active role in Spanish public life.