King Charles III and Queen Camilla began a four-day state visit to the United States of America from April 27-30, marking America’s 250th anniversary, with engagements in Washington DC, New York and Virginia.
The visit includes high-level diplomatic meetings, ceremonial honors and cultural engagements, and is closely watched as a pivotal moment in US-US relations.
April 27 – Washington arrival and White House meeting
The royal couple have arrived in Washington, DC, where they will be welcomed by US President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump at a private tea at the White House.
The day also includes a tour of the White House, which is the official start of the state visit.
April 28 – State ceremony and historic congressional address
The second day begins with a full state arrival ceremony on the South Lawn, including military honors, a 21-gun salute and a performance by US military bands.
The key highlight is the speech of King Charles III. at a joint session of the US Congress – only the second time a British monarch has done so, after Queen Elizabeth II’s speech. in 1991.
The program also includes:
Bilateral meeting between King Charles and President Trump
A separate meeting between Queen Camilla and the First Lady
Formal State Dinner at the White House
Ceremonial military review and garden reception
Wreath laying ceremony for fallen service members
April 29 – New York and Virginia clash
The royal visit will then move to New York, where the King and Queen will meet with first responders and families affected by the September 11, 2001 attacks at the September 11 attacks.
Queen Camilla is also expected to attend a literary event celebrating the 100th anniversary of AA Milne’s Winnie the Pooh stories.
The final American leg continues in Virginia and features cultural performances by Appalachian groups and a community “block party” celebrating America’s 250th anniversary.
April 30 – Departure and farewell
The visit concludes with a formal farewell at the White House, followed by departure, before the royal couple travel to Bermuda, where King Charles also serves as head of state.
