The coronation of King Charles III and the British royal family is moving toward final preparations for a ceremony of global significance. As the appointed day nears, details emerge about the events planned for Westminster Abbey on May 6.
News reports indicate that Prince Guillermo, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis are set to take prominent roles in the coronation. More than 2,000 guests will be present for the historic event, which will be broadcast internationally and feature a mix of royal participants and notable figures from other royal families. There will also be notable omissions, including Meghan Markle, the wife of Prince Harry.
The ceremony will mark the coronation of Camila alongside Charles, with expectations that the service may differ from the past while retaining its centuries-long framework and core elements. Buckingham Palace has suggested the occasion will reflect the spirit of the present era and the monarchy’s evolving role, while still honoring long-standing traditions.
On Saturday, May 6, Westminster Abbey will host the coronation procession and a royal greeting from Buckingham Palace. A concert is planned for Windsor Castle on Sunday, May 7, followed by a large public dinner. The final day, Monday, May 8, will feature voluntary service activities across communities.
A concert with celebrated artists
As stated in the royal proclamation, several thousand attendees will be selected by a national vote organized by the BBC to receive free tickets for the coronation concert at Windsor Castle.
The musical event will showcase prominent performers, including Katy Perry and the Take That members, Mark Owen, Gary Barlow, and Howard Donald.
The Coronation Concert will be hosted at Windsor Castle, with photography and reporting to accompany coverage of the event.
King Charles III, along with Queen Consort Camila, will be represented by renowned artists Andrea Bocelli and Bryn Terfel at the concert. An Oscar and Golden Globe winner is also expected to attend, while other high-profile performers are anticipated to join the lineup.
Additional appearances include the London artist Freya Ridings, who will collaborate with classical composer Alexis French. The BBC has confirmed that more participants will be announced as the event nears, with discussions about appearances by Sir Paul McCartney, Bette Midler, and other well-known performers circulating in media conversations.
Several artists reportedly declined invitations for various reasons, including Ed Sheeran, Adele, Harry Styles, Elton John, Robbie Williams, and the Spice Girls.
A vegetarian menu for the coronation
The celebration will feature a broad outreach with The Great Coronation Dinner, The Coronation Big Lunch, inviting neighbors and communities across the country to share food and enjoy the moment together.
Carlos and Camila have publicly shared a recipe they selected for the big day: a vegetarian quiche made with spinach, broad beans, and tarragon. The dish is accompanied by a lighter option that echoes the traditional crown chicken from 1953, updated for a modern menu. The vegetarian centerpiece aims to be both satisfying and adaptable for varied tastes.
The Coronation Plan emphasizes flexible preparation and accessibility. The recipe for the New Year’s celebrations has been circulated, highlighting a dish that can be served hot or cold with a green salad and fresh potatoes. The emphasis is on sharing a simple, comforting meal that suits many palates.
In a social media note, the royal household shared a behind-the-scenes glimpse of the couple selecting dishes for the celebration and inviting the public to participate in the feast through local events.
Beyond the spinach and beans, the menu includes dairy ingredients such as milk, cream, eggs, and cheddar cheese. The kitchen team explains that the dish can easily adapt to different tastes and preferences, making it suitable for both formal hall and casual gatherings.
A crown with a long history
It is notable that this coronation marks a first in which a monarch’s consort inherits a role without a new title being created for the occasion. Camila’s position is recognized as a personal decision by the King, reflecting ongoing themes of sustainability and practical modernization within the royal family.
Historical references point to past royal exhibitions, including Mary Queen of Teck’s connection to Charles III’s family, and the Tower of London’s displays that continue to remind the public of royal lineage. The palace has emphasized that the coronation will balance tradition with contemporary expectations, remaining mindful of tradition while embracing the present moment.
Plans also highlight efficient, sustainable practices in hosting a modern ceremony that resonates with audiences today, inviting the public to witness a milestone that honors the nation’s heritage and its future path.