King Charles III and Queen Camilla concluded a momentous first day of their historic state visit to the United States with an elegant garden party at the British Embassy in Washington, D.C.

Royal Visit Highlights Transatlantic Relations

The event, attended by 650 distinguished guests, showcased a blend of British and American dignitaries, including politicians, charity leaders, and sports personalities. The visit is intended to reinforce transatlantic ties between the U.K. and the U.S.

Arrival and White House Meetings

The royal couple arrived in the U.S. earlier in the day, greeted with military honors and gifts at Joint Base Andrews before proceeding to the White House. They were warmly received by President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump.

The King and Queen engaged in private discussions with the Trumps over tea and toured the White House’s newly expanded beehive.

Garden Party and Notable Guests

The garden party featured traditional British fare such as Scottish smoked salmon sandwiches, roast beef with horseradish, egg mayonnaise, and scones. Notable attendees included Olympic diver Tom Daley and Lionesses World Cup winner Esme Morgan.

Political figures such as Secretary of the Treasury Scott Bessent, Senator Ted Cruz, and Speaker of the House Mike Johnson were also in attendance.

Time Capsule Ceremony

The evening’s festivities followed a ceremonial time capsule placement marking America’s 250th anniversary. King Charles and Queen Camilla contributed a commemorative coin, a royal proclamation, and essays from local schoolchildren.

The capsule will be buried under the Washington Monument and opened during the U.S.’s 500th anniversary celebrations.

Advocacy and Cultural Exchange

Tom Daley, residing in Los Angeles with his family, shared his advocacy for knitting as a tool for mental health and education, hoping the King might support his efforts to reintroduce it into school curricula. The day’s events highlighted the monarchy’s role in fostering international goodwill and cultural exchange.