Kate Middleton Will Return to St. Patrick’s Day Tradition After Missing Event Last Year

Kate Middleton to Attend St. Patrick’s Day Parade after Missing Last Year’s Event

Kate Middleton is gearing up to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with the Irish Guards at the upcoming parade in Wellington Barracks. The Princess of Wales, who was appointed as the honorary Colonel of the Irish Guards in 2022, will be joining the festivities on March 17th, as confirmed by Kensington Palace on March 11th. This event holds a special place for Kate, as she has been a regular attendee even before assuming her current role, often accompanying her husband, Prince William, who previously held the position.

Unfortunately, Kate was unable to attend last year’s parade due to health issues. She was recovering from abdominal surgery in January 2024 and later revealed a cancer diagnosis in March of the same year. Despite her absence, the Irish Guards showed their support by giving her three cheers at the parade. This year’s appearance will mark her return to the event, where she is known to partake in the traditional toast with a pint of Guinness.

In 2023, Kate made a stylish statement at the St. Patrick’s Day parade with a teal ensemble that complemented the Irish Guards’ uniforms. As the honorary colonel, she will be presenting long service and good conduct medals to soldiers and distributing sprigs of shamrock during the parade. The regimental mascot, an Irish Wolf Hound, will also receive some shamrocks and a royal pat. The day will culminate with a royal salute and march past, where Kate will take the salute as colonel.

Following the parade, Princess Kate will meet with veterans and junior cadets from Northern Ireland. She will participate in the official officers’ and sergeants’ mess photographs and partake in a traditional toast with a pint of beer at the junior ranks’ dining hall. Despite her health challenges, Kate has shown dedication and commitment to her duties, making rare public appearances during significant events like Trooping the Colour last year.

At Trooping the Colour, where the Irish Guards led the parade through London, Kate was unable to lead the Colonel’s Review due to her ongoing cancer treatment. However, she sent a heartfelt letter expressing her pride and support for the regiment. In her message, she thanked the members for their dedication and immaculate preparation for the event. Kate signed off as “Colonel Catherine,” highlighting her continued role within the Irish Guards.

During the 2023 St. Patrick’s Day parade, Kate emphasised her commitment to the regiment, expressing her honour at being their Colonel. She pledged to support and champion the soldiers and their families, acknowledging the responsibility that comes with her position. As she prepares to join this year’s celebration, Kate remains a symbol of resilience and dedication to her royal duties despite facing personal challenges.

As Kate Middleton prepares to attend the St. Patrick’s Day parade, her presence serves as a testament to her unwavering commitment to her royal role and her support for the Irish Guards. Her return to this yearly tradition is a significant moment of celebration and camaraderie within the regiment. Kate’s participation in the event is eagerly anticipated, and her involvement will undoubtedly uplift the spirits of all those in attendance.