A Month to Go: What to Expect at King Charles III's Coronation Celebration
As King Charles III's coronation approaches in just one month, preparations are well underway for the United Kingdom's first enthronement in seven decades.
Following Queen Elizabeth II's passing last September, Charles, 74, immediately became king, but the traditional coronation ceremony is held at a later date after national and royal mourning and months of thorough planning.
The early May coronation weekend will include a star-studded concert, nationwide "big lunch," and volunteering initiatives, as well as the customary ceremony and royal processions.
The events kick off with Charles's official crowning at Westminster Abbey in London on Saturday, May 6, a tradition dating back over 900 years. On May 7, a televised music concert will take place at Windsor Castle, west of London, featuring "global music icons and contemporary stars," according to Buckingham Palace. The concert lineup is yet to be confirmed, with rumored performers such as Kylie Minogue and Lionel Richie.
Also on May 7, neighbors and communities are invited to host thousands of "coronation big lunches," described as a "nationwide act of celebration and friendship." Monday, May 8, designated as a UK public holiday this year, will conclude the coronation weekend with "the big help out," organized by community forums and various faith groups to emphasize the positive impact of volunteering across the nation.
The coronation ceremony is anticipated to be shorter and less intricate than Queen Elizabeth's 1953 ceremony. This time, only 2,000 guests will be invited, and the service is expected to last about an hour.
Foreign royals, European leaders, and senior diplomats from China are among the confirmed attendees. First Lady Jill Biden will represent the United States at the event.
The British public's invited members include a teenager who raised significant funds for a hospice by camping in his garden every night for three years.
There is still uncertainty surrounding whether Prince Harry and Meghan will attend the event. A spokesperson for Charles's younger son confirmed the couple's invitation but did not disclose whether they had accepted.
Charles's wife Camilla will be formally crowned with Queen Mary's Crown, and Charles will wear the 17th century St Edward's Crown. Camilla has been known as "queen consort" since Elizabeth II's passing. However, the coronation invitations refer to her as "Queen Camilla" for the first time, and she is expected to maintain that title after May 6.