It was a busy day at Westminster Abbey on Monday afternoon as senior members of the royal family turned out in full force to mark Commonwealth Day with a special 2026 service.
As guests arrived at the Abbey, Prince William warmly greeted his father, stepping forward to kiss him on both cheeks and briefly holding his arm as the sound of the organ played in the background. See the moment captured above.
© GettyAs Charles moved on, William then greeted Queen Camilla, whom he kissed on just one cheek – seemingly due to the angle of her crimson hat, which was tilted to one side – before joining his aunt, Princess Anne, and his wife Kate, who greeted the King and Queen with a curtsey.
Who else attended the Commonwealth Day service 2026?
Alongside the King and Queen were the Prince and Princess of Wales. They were joined by Princess Anne and her husband, Vice Admiral Sir Timothy Laurence, as well as the Duke and Duchess of Gloucester.
© Getty ImagesPrince Albert of Monaco was also in attendance, alongside Prime Minister Keir Starmer, Dame Floella Benjamin, and Geri and Christian Horner.
What happened before the Commonwealth Day service 2026?
Before the service began at 3pm, senior members of the royal family were spotted in high spirits as they greeted and chatted with one another, with the royal ladies giggling while sporting impressive hats.
Princess Anne, dressed in green, smiled at Kate without offering a kiss, while several other guests opted for a peck on the cheek – likely due to their elaborate headwear.
© Getty ImagesEarlier that day, the Royal Family's official account marked Commonwealth Day with a post on X.
Featuring multiple photos of royal family members visiting Commonwealth countries over the years, the caption read: "As we mark #CommonwealthDay, thank you to everyone around the Commonwealth who has welcomed a member of the Royal Family to their country in the past year."
