Prince William and Catherine stepped into hosting duties at Buckingham Palace as they welcomed guests to their first Garden Party of the year.
The Prince and Princess of Wales hosted thousands of attendees on Friday, May 8, 2026, marking the second Garden Party of the season after King Charles III and Queen Camilla held the first celebration earlier in the week.
The royal couple were joined by several senior royals, including Zara Tindall, Prince Edward and Sophie.
William and Catherine made their entrance through the palace doors, officially beginning the outdoor celebration.
The Best Photos of Prince William, Kate Middleton, and More Royals at the Second Garden Party of 2026 https://t.co/sorVXTngZm
— TOWN&COUNTRY (@TandCmag) May 8, 2026
For the occasion, Catherine wore a white jacket paired with a polka dot skirt and a vintage black-and-white hat, while William matched the formal tone in a suit and top hat.
During the event, the Prince and Princess of Wales spent time speaking with guests from across the UK and overseas, recognising individuals who made positive contributions to their communities as well as members of the diplomatic service.
Garden Parties have been held at Buckingham Palace since the 1860s and remain one of the monarch’s traditional ways of honouring public service. Guests are typically treated to tea, cakes and an afternoon gathering with members of the royal family.
