Buckingham Palace Garden Party Returns on King Charles' Coronation Anniversary — See the Moments

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Royals (2 / 1) 06.05.2026 19:06 / Peter

Tradition, tea and style

Garden parties, a royal custom since the 1860s, are a way to thank community members and public servants. Guests are typically welcomed onto the grounds at 3 p.m., with members of the royal family arriving an hour later to the sound of a military band. Attendees enjoyed cake, tea and a stroll through the palace gardens while royals circulated among lanes so many could meet them. The dress code called for morning dress or lounge suits for men and day dresses with hats or fascinators for women.

Clouds, coordination and the season ahead

Cloudy skies meant umbrellas were in evidence; a royal editor noted the disappointing weather on social media. The king wore a top hat with blue accents that matched the queen's light-blue dress and wide-brimmed hat. Buckingham Palace has more garden parties planned this spring and summer, including additional dates at the palace and an event at the Palace of Holyroodhouse, plus themed gatherings in mid-May. Earlier, Charles and Camilla also hosted a garden reception at the British Embassy in Washington, D.C., attended by around 600 guests.