King Charles III and Queen Camilla arrived in Washington, D.C., on Monday for the monarch's first visit to the United States since his ascension in 2022. However, the royal couple will not be meeting with Prince Harry, who resides in California. The visit includes a series of official engagements in Washington, New York, and Virginia.
Washington Itinerary
According to a White House press release, U.S. President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump will welcome Charles and Camilla on Monday afternoon at the South Portico. The couples will proceed to the State Floor for tea in the Green Room, followed by a tour of the newly expanded White House Beehive. On Tuesday morning, a State Arrival Ceremony on the South Lawn will feature national anthems and a 21-gun salute. After a troop inspection, Trump will deliver remarks, and the couples will observe a Pass in Review of 300 service members. The day includes a signing of the White House guest book, an official gift exchange, and a receiving line. Trump and the King will hold a meeting in the Oval Office, while the First Lady and Queen Camilla join American students for a cross-cultural event. In the afternoon, Charles will address a joint meeting of Congress—the first British monarch to do so since Queen Elizabeth II in 1991. Tuesday evening concludes with a State Dinner in the East Room.
New York and Virginia Visits
On Wednesday, Charles and Camilla travel to New York City for a ceremony at the September 11 memorial, marking the upcoming 25th anniversary of the attacks. They will meet first responders and are expected to be joined by Mayor Zohran Mamdani. Later, they head to Virginia for events celebrating the 250th anniversary of the United States' founding, including a community block party. On Thursday morning, the Trumps bid farewell to the Royals at the South Portico.
Significance of the Visit
The visit coincides with the 250th anniversary of the U.S. Declaration of Independence, a historical event that involved the 13 colonies breaking away from British rule under King George III, Charles' ancestor. Despite this, President Trump's apparent admiration for the King is expected to ease any potential awkwardness.
