A woman who attended the Royal Family's first garden party of the year with her husband has shared footage of the prestigious event on TikTok, revealing that the food on offer was not quite what her husband expected.
VeeVee, known on TikTok as @veeveehmwahx, was present at Buckingham Palace on Tuesday, May 6, and began her clip as they entered the garden, which was packed with fellow guests. She then showcased the refreshments available, served by numerous Palace staff. Thrilled VeeVee selected two cucumber sandwiches, one ham and tomato sandwich, a salad wrap, and the obligatory cup of tea.
"This guy thought we were gonna get chicken wings," she quipped about her husband. Other attendees enjoyed an assortment of additional sandwiches, cakes, and coffee, meanwhile.
Entertainment and Royal Arrival
The visitors were also entertained by performances from two military bands, before King Charles and Queen Camilla arrived at 4pm as the National Anthem played. Alongside Their Majesties, the Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh, the Princess Royal and the Duke and Duchess of Gloucester were also in attendance in a united royal display.
"Lovely and you can't beat an afternoon tea," one TikTok user commented in response. "Hope it was great for you both."
Upcoming Garden Parties
The King will hold additional garden parties at the Palace on May 8 and May 12, with two more dedicated to particular charities taking place later this month, including one marking the 50th anniversary of The King's Trust. Then, a third event will take place at the Palace of Holyroodhouse in Edinburgh on June 30 when the Royal Family travels to Scotland for Royal Week.
According to the Royal Family, over the course of each year, more than 30,000 guests are invited to enjoy a relaxed summer afternoon in the stunning grounds of Buckingham Palace or the Palace of Holyroodhouse. "Garden Parties are an important way for members of the Royal Family to speak to a broad range of people from all walks of life, all of whom have made a positive impact in their community," according to the Royals' website.
Who Gets Invited to a Royal Garden Party?
In summer, the Sovereign traditionally hosts three garden parties at Buckingham Palace, and one at the Palace of Holyroodhouse in Scotland. Historically, garden parties took the place of presentation parties attended by debutantes, and have evolved into a way of recognising and rewarding public service.
What Happens at a Garden Party?
On the day of the garden party, the Palace gates are open from around 3pm. The event officially begins when Members of the Royal Family enter the garden at 4pm, when the National Anthem is played by one of the two military bands present.
What to Wear
For a garden party, men wear morning dress or lounge suits, while women wear day dress, usually with hats or fascinators. National dress and uniform are also often worn.
