The Princess of Wales is scheduled to participate in a beloved event today that has become a regular part of her schedule. This morning, she will be present at Mons Barracks for the customary St Patrick’s Day Parade with the Irish Guards.
As the colonel of the Irish Guards, Kate has made it a tradition to join the St Patrick’s Day parade where she distributes sprigs of shamrock and typically dons a green coat. In the past, she used to accompany her husband Prince William, the former colonel of the Irish Guards, to the festive parade.
In a noteworthy incident during the 2013 parade, Kate faced a near mishap when her shoe’s heel got caught in a drain cover while she was pregnant with Prince George. William came to her rescue, steadying her as she freed her stuck heel before continuing with the ceremony.
Last year, Kate made a touching comeback to the event after missing it in 2024 due to health reasons. She awarded medals for long service and good conduct to soldiers, distributed shamrocks, and even bought drinks for the regiment to mark the special occasion.
Following the salute, the princess joined the soldiers in the barracks where she enjoyed a half pint of Guinness, conversed with soldiers and their families, and discussed her husband’s beard with section commanders. Kate was appointed as Colonel of the Irish Guards in December 2023, taking over from William who became the Colonel of the Welsh Guard.
While at Trooping the Colour, where colonels typically wear full military uniform and some ride on horseback during the parade, Kate has only participated in a carriage without wearing military attire for the event.