Kate Middleton marks St. Patrick’s Day with the Irish Guards on March 17, 2025. Photo:
Andrew Parsons / Kensington Palace
March 17, 2025 | By FlashpointNews Team
Princess Kate Middleton marked a royal milestone on St. Patrick’s Day 2025, attending the Irish Guards’ annual parade at Wellington Barracks in London for the first time as Colonel without her husband, Prince William. The event highlighted her growing role within the royal family and her dedication to military engagements.
A Royal First for Princess Kate
This year’s St. Patrick’s Day parade was a significant moment for Kate Middleton, 43, who has been a regular at the event since 2012. However, 2025 marked her first solo appearance as Colonel of the Irish Guards, a role she assumed in 2022 following a reshuffling of royal duties after King Charles III ascended the throne.
- Role as Colonel: Kate took over the position from Prince William, who had served as Colonel since 2011.
- Solo Engagement: While Kate attended the parade in 2023 as Colonel, she was accompanied by Prince William. This year, she led the event independently, showcasing her confidence and leadership.
The St. Patrick’s Day Tradition
The Irish Guards’ St. Patrick’s Day parade is a cherished royal tradition, dating back decades. Key elements of the event include:
- Shamrock Presentation: The Colonel presents shamrocks to the regiment, symbolizing good luck and Irish heritage.
- Military Inspection: Kate inspected the front rank of soldiers, a duty she performed with precision and grace.
- Guinness Toast: In a beloved tradition, Kate raised a pint of Guinness with the troops, celebrating their camaraderie and service.
Kate’s History with the Irish Guards
Kate’s connection to the Irish Guards spans over a decade:
- First Solo Engagement (2012): Kate stepped in for Prince William, handing out shamrocks and marking her first solo military engagement as a working royal.
- Family Commitments: In 2016, William attended the parade alone while Kate spent time with their children, Prince George and Princess Charlotte, ahead of a major royal tour.
- Pandemic and Health Challenges: The parade was canceled in 2020 due to overseas deployments and in 2021 due to COVID-19. In 2024, Kate missed the event while recovering from abdominal surgery and cancer treatment.
A Symbol of Resilience
Kate’s return to the parade in 2025 was particularly poignant, coming after a year of health challenges. In September 2024, she announced she had completed chemotherapy, and in January 2025, she revealed she was in remission. Her presence at the parade signaled her full return to royal duties and her commitment to her role as Colonel.
- Regimental Support: The Irish Guards paid tribute to Kate during her absence in 2024, giving three cheers in her name and toasting her recovery.
- Fan Favorite: The regiment’s mascot, an Irish Wolfhound named Seamus, received a special pat from Kate, delighting soldiers and onlookers alike.
What’s Next for Princess Kate?
Kate’s solo appearance at the St. Patrick’s Day parade underscores her growing independence within the royal family. As she continues to balance her royal duties with her role as a mother, her leadership and dedication remain a source of inspiration.
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