Princess Kate is feeling green this St. Patrick's Day. The Princess of Wales, 43, took part in the Irish Guard's parade at Wellington Barracks in London on March 17, 2025, to mark the holiday. Dressed in a matching forest green beret, coat, and scarf, the outfit was complemented by a gold, three-leaf clover pin. In celebration, Kate also appeared to sip a beer and posed for photos with the Irish Guard.
Last year, on the same day, Kate did not take part in the British Army regiment's annual event, which came just days before she revealed to the world that she had cancer and would undergo preventative chemotherapy. Her treatment ended in September 2024, and in January 2025, she announced her cancer was in remission during a heartfelt social media video. In that post, she shared, "My path to healing and full recovery is long and I must continue to take each day as it comes." Explaining her journey, she added, "As anyone who has experienced a cancer diagnosis will know, it takes time to adjust to a new normal. I am however looking forward to a fulfilling year ahead. Thank you to everyone for your continued support."
Kate, who holds the honorary title of Colonel of the foot guard regiment, also presented shamrocks during the ceremony, including to the Guards' Irish wolfhound mascot, Turlough Mor. This participation marks a year of returns for the princess, highlighted by her recent attendance at her first Commonwealth Day service since 2023. This was also a significant return for King Charles III, who had missed the previous year's service due to his own battle with cancer.
In addition to her duties for St. Patrick's Day, Kate's public speaking journey has been noteworthy. Over a decade ago, in March 2012, she delivered her first speech in an official capacity for East Anglia's Children's Hospices (EACH) during the opening of their Treehouse centre in Ipswich. Reflecting on that first engagement, she admitted to the nerves she felt, stating, "A view of his - that I share - is that through teamwork, so much can be achieved." This was a significant moment, occurring nearly a year into her marriage with Prince William.
Fast forward more than ten years, Kate has received praise for her improvement in public speaking and self-assurance, having now completed hundreds of engagements. Royal commentator Richard Fitzwilliams noted, "Catherine's public speaking style has come a long way from her early attempts. Her speeches now reflect her natural charm and enthusiasm." This evolution marks her increasing confidence in a role that commands significant public attention and responsibility.
Kate's return to royal engagements in 2025 has been encouraging. This year alone, she has participated in 11 public events, including a joint appearance with Prince William at the Wales vs England Six Nations match in Cardiff on March 15. Her ability to balance her royal duties with personal challenges has resonated with many, solidifying her status as a relatable future queen.
Moreover, as a mother of three and a figurehead for various charities, her confidence has blossomed. Former BBC Royal correspondent Jennie Bond previously explained, "She has learned the craft of being royal over a number of years and earned her place as a senior member of the family." The public now sees her not just as William's wife but as a formidable member of the royal family and a respected future queen.
Princess Kate’s journey is a testament to resilience and the capacity to overcome personal adversities. As she embraces her royal responsibilities with renewed vigor, her steadfast commitment to charitable work, particularly in areas like Early Years Development and child mental health, reveals a royal who is relatable and engaging. As we look toward her future, it is clear that her authentic interest and compassion have won her a significant place in the hearts of the public.
