The Royal Family is poised to embrace 2025 with renewed vigor and optimism after weathering a challenging year punctuated by health concerns for both King Charles III and Princess Catherine, the Princess of Wales. Following more than 14 months absent from official overseas engagements due to health issues, the royal couple is preparing to reinstate their international touring schedule with several significant events slated for next year.
Princess Catherine, who turned 43 on January 9, 2024, has begun to emerge back to public duties after undergoing chemotherapy. A senior palace official noted, "We’re now working on a pretty normal looking full overseas tour programme for next year, which is a high for us to end on, to know we can be thinking in those terms." Her husband, Prince William, hinted during his recent visit to Cape Town, "I think hopefully Catherine will be doing a bit more next year, so we'll have some more trips maybe lined up," signaling their intent to expand their royal activities.
The couple's last major overseas tour was for the Platinum Jubilee, which occurred nearly three years ago. Since then, their public appointments have been limited. Nonetheless, they managed several public appearances, including attending the Rugby World Cup in France and the wedding of the Crown Prince of Jordan.
Looking to 2025, the King, who has been undergoing treatment for cancer, is also preparing to return to regular overseas trips, contingent upon medical guidance. The monarch's health improved sufficiently during his latest trip to Australia and Samoa, which the palace staff described as "the perfect tonic" for him. The planning includes notable commemoration events, beginning with the poignant visit to Auschwitz, Poland, on January 27, 2025, marking the 80th anniversary of its liberation from the Nazi regime. King Charles, as patron of the Holocaust Memorial Day Trust, is committed to honoring the memory of those lost during the Holocaust.
Other trips under consideration involve tours to South Asia, particularly India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh, reflecting Britain's historical ties to the region. Correspondingly, the Royal Family will formally participate in national commemorations for both VE Day on May 8 and VJ Day on August 15. These celebrations will feature lighting beacons and ceremonies to honor Britain’s contributions during World War II, echoing sentiments from Queen Elizabeth II's televised address during the 75th VE Day anniversary amid the COVID-19 pandemic.
2025 also holds personal milestones for the Royal Family, including Princess Beatrice expecting her second child and the King and Queen celebrating their 20th wedding anniversary on April 9. Milestone birthdays are also on the horizon, with Princess Charlotte turning 10, and the Duchess of Edinburgh and Princess Michael of Kent celebrating their milestone birthdays of 60 and 80 respectively.
Further royal engagements will include traditional events such as Trooping the Colour and Royal Ascot, with the royal family eager to restore their public image and uphold their commitments. Meanwhile, Prince Harry is set to return to the public eye with his forthcoming High Court trial and participation in the Invictus Games later the same year.
Overall, the Royal Family hopes to rebuild from the trials of 2024, seeking to reconnect with the public through these expected diplomatic and community contributions next year. The rejuvenation of royal duties will not only reflect the family's resilience but also embody the spirit of service embodied by members of the monarchy.
