Belgium’s King Philippe and Queen Mathilde are among the latest royals to confirm their attendance at the coronation of King Charles III on May 6th. The event, which will be held at Westminster Abbey, promises to be one of the most significant events in the British royal calendar this year.
However, the Belgian monarchs will not be the only ones representing their country at the coronation ceremony. On the day before the ceremony, May 5th, the King and Queen will be joined by their 21-year-old daughter, Princess Elisabeth, Duchess of Brabant, at the pre-coronation reception at Buckingham Palace.
The guest list for the reception has not yet been confirmed by the palace, but rumors have circulated that Prince George, the nine-year-old son of the Prince and Princess of Wales, may attend his first-ever royal reception on this occasion. While this has not been confirmed, many European heirs will be in attendance, including Princess Elisabeth and Princess Catharina-Amalia of The Netherlands.
Prince George already has a major role at the coronation ceremony as one of his grandfather’s pages of honor. In the past year, the young prince has upped his public appearances, attending events with his parents and siblings, including a state funeral for his great-grandmother Queen Elizabeth II. He has also been seen at football and rugby matches with William and Kate.
The coronation service on May 6th will be followed by the Big Lunch and a star-studded concert at Windsor Castle on May 7th. The following day, Bank Holiday Monday, has been designated as The Big Help, a campaign that aims to encourage people to volunteer in their local community.
While it remains to be seen if Prince George will make his debut at a palace reception, given his young age and significant role at the coronation ceremony, it is likely that royal fans will have to wait a while longer to see the young prince at such an event.
Overall, the coronation of King Charles III promises to be a significant and memorable event in the British royal calendar. With many European heirs expected to attend the pre-coronation reception, it provides an opportunity for the younger generation of royals to come together and celebrate this historic occasion.
