King Charles will host his first party in the garden of Buckingham Palace on Wednesday, three days before his coronation. The British head of state is thus continuing a long-standing family tradition. What actually happens at such a garden party? And how do you win an invitation?
The British court announced on April 20 that Charles, his wife Camilla and Charles’ sister Anne are organizing a number of garden parties to celebrate the coronation of the royal couple. So the first is Wednesday. The second garden party will follow on May 9, at the same place. And on the 4th of July there will be a party at The Palace of Holyroodhouse in Scotland.
Queen Victoria started the Garden Party tradition way back in 1860, but the garden parties are still often associated with Queen Elizabeth. During her more than seventy years on the throne, she organized four such meetings each summer: three at Buckingham Palace and one at Holyroodhouse.
More than 30,000 guests are present at the parties every year. In Victoria’s time, only people from the upper social class were invited. Nowadays, all kinds of Brits who have a positive impact on society in their own way are welcome. Just like with the lunch that King Willem-Alexander organized on the occasion of his jubilee.
It is not possible to sign up for a Garden Party. This is done by sponsors of the palace, such as local authorities, churches and other associations. The requirements are that you are 18 years or older, have not previously attended a royal garden party and live in the UK. If you are selected, you can also bring someone with you.
What happens at a garden party?
During a Garden Party, the palace gates open at 3 p.m. But the party really starts when the royal family enters the garden at 4 p.m., while a military band plays the national anthem.
The members of the British royal family spread out through the garden, so that every guest has an equal chance to speak to someone or shake hands. Sandwiches (twenty thousand pieces), tea and cake are served. There is a dress code for the guests: for the men morning dress and for the women day dresses, which in both cases means that guests should look festive and elegant. They may also appear in national costume or uniform.
Buckingham Palace’s official site states that the tradition is derived from the debutante balls, featured in the hit Netflix costume drama Bridgerton back in the spotlight again. “Historically, the Garden Parties took the place of the presentation parties, where all debutantes (young women from mostly wealthy families who celebrate coming of age, ed.) were present. It is now a way to recognize and reward people who mean something to the country.”
In 2022, the first garden party since the corona pandemic took place. Elizabeth had to miss due to her deteriorating health.
The party of Charles taking place on Wednesday is not the only royal garden event this year. The upcoming edition on May 16 will be hosted by Sophie, The Duchess of Edinburgh, in honor of the Not Forgotten Association charity. Another garden party will follow on May 24, hosted by the Duke and Duchess of Gloucester.
2023-05-03 03:03:08
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