The evening of October 23, 2025, concluded on a high note in Oviedo. The thirty-third annual concert, held at the Auditorio Príncipe Felipe, set the stage for the upcoming Princess of Asturias Awards ceremony. King Felipe VI, Queen Letizia, and their daughters, Princess Leonor and Infanta Sofía, graced the cultural event with their presence. The evening’s program featured masterpieces by 19th-century composers Brahms and Dvořák, performed by the Oviedo Philharmonic Orchestra and the Princess of Asturias Foundation Choir. As the final notes faded, it seemed the official program was over and the royal family would soon depart.
However, the evening took an unexpected turn. Instead of immediately leaving in their cars after exiting the auditorium, the royals walked towards the crowd of locals who had waited outside for hours, hoping for a glimpse of the royal family. This heartfelt gesture showed their genuine desire to connect with the people and express gratitude for the ongoing support the residents of Oviedo show each year. The atmosphere was casual and warm, free from formalities.
The conversations between the royal family and the public were filled with touching and amusing moments. Princess Leonor, clearly enjoying herself, chatted with two little girls. When one introduced herself as Sofía, the heir to the throne smiled and remarked that her sister shares the same name, which charmed everyone present. Infanta Sofía, in turn, received compliments with a bit more reserve, as befits her age, but her gratitude was no less genuine. One woman praised Queen Letizia for her work and elegance, to which the Queen responded with heartfelt thanks.
Perhaps the most memorable exchange was between King Felipe and an elderly lady. With a sense of humor, she told the monarch she had been waiting for this meeting ‘for eighty-five years and three hours.’ The King, visibly moved, laughed heartily and warmly shook her hand, expressing his appreciation for such patience. Scenes like this played out repeatedly: people thanked the royals for their visit, complimented the princesses, noted how much they had grown, and expressed delight at meeting the future queen for the first time. It was vibrant, sincere interaction that broke down all barriers.
This evening was just the prelude to a packed agenda for the royal family in Asturias. The very next day, on October 24, they are scheduled to meet with award laureates at the Reconquista Hotel, followed by the main awards ceremony in the evening. The visit will conclude on Saturday, October 25, with a trip to Valdesoto, where the royals will present the “Model Village of Asturias 2025” award.
