Princess Kate has attended the Irish Guards St Patrick’s Day Parade in her role as Colonel of the regiment.
The Princess of Wales, who wore a dark green Alexander McQueen coat, visited the Irish Guards at Wellington Barracks for the traditional celebration.
Her Royal Highness, who previously wore the coat during a trip to Boston, took on several ceremonial duties throughout the event, continuing the long-standing tradition.
The parade marks one of the most significant dates in the Irish Guards’ calendar, with the Princess playing a central role in the proceedings.
Princess Kate dazzles in dark green Alexander McQueen coat at the St Patrick’s Day Parade
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Kate’s appearance at the St Patrick’s Day celebration demonstrates her ongoing commitment to her military patronage.
Upon arrival at the Barracks, the Princess awarded long service and good conduct medals to soldiers within the regiment.
She then joined the parade where she presented the traditional sprigs of shamrock to the Officers and Guardsmen.
The shamrock was subsequently issued along the ranks, maintaining a cherished regimental tradition.
Princess Kate wore a lovely Alexander McQueen coat
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The Princess also presented shamrock to the Irish Wolf Hound, the regiment’s mascot.
This ceremonial distribution of shamrock is one of the most iconic aspects of the St Patrick’s Day celebration for the Irish Guards.
The presentation honours the regiment’s Irish heritage and maintains a tradition dating back generations.
The parade concluded with a Royal Salute and march-past where the Princess took the salute as Colonel.
Princess Kate wore a shamrock brooch for the occasion
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Following the parade, Her Royal Highness met with veterans of the Irish Guards.
She also spent time with Mini Micks, the junior cadets from Northern Ireland who were in attendance.
The Princess then joined for the official Officers’ and Sergeants’ Mess photographs.
These formal photographs serve as an important record of the Colonel’s annual visit to the regiment.
Princess Kate looked amazing on St Patrick’s Day
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The interactions with veterans and cadets highlight the Princess’s engagement with all generations connected to the Irish Guards.
After the formal proceedings, Her Royal Highness visited the Junior Ranks dining hall.
There, the Senior Guardsman in the Battalion proposed a toast to The Princess.
Kate then spent time meeting with Guardsmen to hear about their roles and experiences within the Irish Guards.