We are fast approaching the one year anniversary of the death of Queen Elizabeth II, a moment in history which was felt around the world.
After a historic 70 year reign, Queen Elizabeth II passed away at Balmoral on September 8, 2022.
Her Majesty’s cause of death was revealed later on to be of natural, old age, although there had been several reports of ill health and concerns for her before her death.
As we approach the one year anniversary, how will the Royal Family pay tribute? Will King Charles be making a public speech?
How will King Charles pay tribute to his mother on September 8?
The King won’t make a public appearance, and there won’t be an official family gathering on the first anniversary of the queen’s death, a spokesperson for the royal family has confirmed.
Instead, Charles and Queen Camilla will spend the day in private at Balmoral Castle – ‘quietly and privately’ as per the statement from the palace.
While this might seem surprising to some – especially as the royals are known for their elaborate celebrations and ceremonies – this is pretty in keeping with what many do for personal milestones.
Grant Harrold, former royal butler to King Charles and Queen Camilla, explained how the late Queen would remember her own father’s passing.
As quoted in the Independent, he explained: ‘For her father’s [death] anniversary, the Queen would always mark it by being at Sandringham on the day and would actually go to church. It wouldn’t surprise me if members of the Royal family decide to go to church.’
Will there be any memorial service for the Queen?
No official plans have been revealed, but it’s understood Prince William and Kate Middleton, the Prince and Princess of Wales will carry out an official engagement on the day.
On Friday, September 8, the royal couple will visit St David’s Cathedral.
William is not expected to speak at the cathedral but the couple will be shown around the ancient church in St David’s, the UK’s smallest city.
Prince Harry, who has been vocal about being estranged from his family since moving to California and publishing a tell-all memoir, will actually be in the UK for the date… but he won’t be with wife Meghan Markle or have any plans to reunite with his family.
The Duke of Sussex will be in London to attend an event for WellChild, a charity for seriously ill children of which he’s a patron, on September 7.
Harry is then expected to travel to Dusseldorf, Germany, for the start of his Invictus Games on September 9.
As for the rest of the family, plans are unknown. However, many are already believed to be summering with King Charles at Balmoral.
Princess Anne, Prince Edward and Prince Andrew – the late Queen’s other three children – have all been photographed at the Scottish estate in the past week.
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