King Charles III Coronation : a historic event

A landmark event in the making

On 8 September 2022, we learned that Queen Elizabeth II had passed away after 70 years of reign. This shocking announcement plunged the UK into mourning. However, it also meant inevitable title changes in the Royal Family.

Then, on 10 September 2022, Prince Charles III was proclaimed King. This important event marked the end of Queen Elizabeth II's reign, and the beginning of Charles III's. At 73, he became the oldest person to be crowned in the United Kingdom.

However, the ceremony is not scheduled to take place immediately. It is an important event that requires a lot of preparation. The date is set for Saturday 6 May 2023, several months after Charles III's proclamation as King. The coronation even has a code name, "Operation Golden Orb".

Originally, Camilla Shand's title was not to change: she was to remain Queen Consort. Exceptionally, thanks to her popularity with the British population and with the agreement of Elizabeth II, Camilla Shand was given the title of Queen.

Who is invited to the coronation ceremony?

The ceremony will be simpler than that of Queen Elizabeth II. While the last coronation was attended by 8,000 people, this one will not exceed 3,000 guests. The place limit complicates matters: it will be necessary to sort out the guests and, by extension, the political personalities invited.

As a major event for the Royal Family, most of the members will be present. Guests will include Prince William and Kate Middleton, Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, Prince Edward, Princess Eugenie, Princess Beatrice, and other members of the Royal Family. Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have also been invited.

Apart from the royal family, other notable guests and celebrities are also expected to attend the ceremony. The aim is to unite everyone, regardless of political or religious views.

Details of the coronation ceremony

The coronation will take place on Saturday 6 May 2023, in Westminster Abbey, as is traditional. Westminster Abbey has hosted many royal ceremonies: coronations from William the Conqueror to Queen Elizabeth II, and funerals of most of the royal family.

However, the codes change slightly. The ceremony would finally be more modern than that of Queen Elizabeth II. The main traditions would still be kept.

The ceremony will start with the "King's Procession". Charles and Camilla will leave Buckingham Palace and arrive at Westminster Abbey. This is where the coronation will take place.

Once inside, the coronation oath will be taken. Charles will receive his royal attributes including the sceptre and crown. Camilla will also be crowned.

They will then return to Buckingham for the 'coronation procession'. We will finally be able to see them on the balcony of Buckingham to greet the crowd.

Coronation festivities

In any case, this is a highly anticipated event for everyone in the UK, which will also be followed by the whole world. The celebrations last for three days, on 6, 7 and 8 May 2023. The British government has decided to make Monday 8 May a bank holiday so that the whole population can enjoy it.

The ceremony will of course be broadcast live, and screens will be set up in major cities across the UK to allow everyone to watch.

Many events are planned for the occasion, such as concerts and performances in different cities around the country.

• The Coronation Concert

On the evening of Sunday 7 May, there will be a Coronation Concert at Windsor Castle, where a host of famous artists are invited. The programme includes music, theatre and dance. The event will be broadcast live on BBC One, BBC iPlayer, BBC Radio 2 and BBC Sounds.

• The Big Lunch

The Big Lunch is a free pack that can be ordered online, containing ideas, tips and tricks for preparing your own party. The project is developed by Eden Project and aims to bring people together to share a cheerful moment. Be prepared to see lively streets!

• The big day of mutual aid

On Monday 8 May, a national day of volunteering will take place, in reference to Charles III's commitment to humanitarian causes. For the occasion, several associations are participating to propose events and recruit volunteers. The list of actions will be available on the Big Help Out website.

• Royal tea time

The Goring Hotel is getting ready for the event. On Saturday 6 May, you can enjoy a special Coronation Afternoon Tea while having a view on the beautiful gardens. Enjoy coronation-themed treats, decorated with Charles III insignia, horse-drawn carriages and crowns.

In short, the coronation ceremony is a happy day, which aims to bring people together and unite them. Take the opportunity to discover the city of London, we share with you the places not to be missed!