King Charles and Queen Camilla are marking their annual summer tradition in Scotland with a festive garden party at the Palace of Holyroodhouse—held this year on July 1, which would have been Princess Diana’s 64th birthday.
The event, part of the royal couple’s week-long Holyrood Week tour, is set to welcome around 8,000 guests, honouring community service, culture, and achievements from across Scotland.
Earlier in the day, the King participated in the ceremonial handing over of the keys to Edinburgh, smiling warmly as he took part in the historic tradition accompanied by the Royal Company of Archers and regimental music.
The upcoming garden party in the palace’s storied gardens offers a relaxed setting for royals to meet members of the public. Guests will be treated to live performances by the Royal Scottish Pipers Society and military bands, continuing the festive atmosphere.
While King Charles focused on welcoming the nation to the capital, Queen Camilla opened the newly rebuilt Ratho Library, where she celebrated its new partnership with the Edinburgh International Book Festival—underscoring the royal couple’s joint commitment to public service during this symbolic week in Scotland.