The Prince and Princess of Wales hosted a Buckingham Palace garden party on Tuesday, on behalf of the King. The event, attended by 7,500 guests, recognised individuals who have made positive contributions to their communities.
Prince William, 42, and Kate, 43, were joined by Princess Eugenie, Zara Tindall, the Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh, and the Duke and Duchess of Gloucester. It marked Kate’s first garden party appearance since 2023, following her chemotherapy treatment in 2024.
Among the guests was the family of Liz Hatton, a teenage photographer who died of cancer. Kate spoke with Liz’s younger brother, Mateo, who gave her two yellow Jellycat toys. The Princess said: “It matches my dress, how did you know?” and praised Liz’s creativity. William remarked: “My children will love these. They are children’s currency.”
Other attendees included Holocaust survivor Steven Frank, whom Kate photographed in 2020, and fundraising youngster Tony Hudgell. Kate hugged Mr Frank, saying: “I feel like we’re old friends now. It’s good to see you looking so well.”
The Princess wore a butter-yellow Emilia Wickstead dress with a Philip Treacy hat. Zara Tindall chose a cream and red floral dress, while Princess Eugenie wore a navy polka-dot dress. The Duchess of Edinburgh opted for a pink floral dress by Beulah London.
Garden parties have been held at Buckingham Palace since the 1860s, when Queen Victoria began afternoon “breakfasts”. Around 27,000 cups of tea, 20,000 sandwiches and 20,000 slices of cake are consumed at each event.
