This attempted greeting led to an outbreak of giggles among her, Queen Camilla and Princess Anne. Princess Anne then smiled apologetically at Catherine, indicating that she wouldn’t even attempt a kiss. Other royals just offered a peck on one cheek for fear of knocking their sizeable headwear.
Camilla, 78, opted for a bright red overcoat and matching hat, paired with a black clutch bag. Queen Camilla was also wearing a large Philip Treacy hat, whereas Anne wore a much smaller green hat.
The service appears to have got off to a slightly rocky start as anti-monarchy protestors gathered outside Westminster Abbey this afternoon.
The protestors were holding signs reading “not my King” and “down with the crown”. Others read “abolish the monarchy” and asked, “What are you hiding?”
It comes after Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor was arrested on his 66th birthday last month on suspicion of misconduct in public office.
Charles’s annual address to the family of nations was included in a special booklet given to the congregation. He said in his message: “Working together, we can ensure that the Commonwealth continues to stand as a force for good.”
This year, Commonwealth Day is celebrated around the world on March 9, 2026, with people taking part in cultural events, school activities and faith-based services across the 56 member countries.
Observed annually on the second Monday in March since 1977, the day brings together people from across the Commonwealth, representing nearly a third of the world’s population, in a shared moment of reflection and celebration.
In his message for Commonwealth Day, the King said: “We join together on this Commonwealth Day at a time of great challenge and great possibility. Across our world, communities and nations face the increasing pressures of conflict, climate change and rapid transformation. Yet it is often in such testing moments that the enduring spirit of the Commonwealth is most clearly revealed.”