Royal Hightlights of July 2025

 A Royal July: celebrations and events across Europe

July is a month filled with grandeur and tradition as royal families across Europe partake in an array of prestigious events and personal celebrations. Let's delve into some of the highlight events gracing the royal calendar this July.

Hampton Court Garden Festival (UK) – July 1–6

Amidst the historic ambiance of Henry VIII’s former palace, the Hampton Court Garden Festival flourishes with vibrant displays of horticultural excellence. As one of the UK's largest flower shows, it garners royal interest and sometimes even a visit from a royal patron. This festival offers a unique blend of history, nature, and royal charm, making it a must-visit for garden lovers.

Monte-Carlo Show Jumping (Monaco) – July 3–5

The glamour of Monaco is on full display at the Monte-Carlo Show Jumping event, held under the patronage of the royal family. Set against the stunning backdrop of Port Hercule near the royal palace, this elite equestrian competition attracts top riders and spectators, including notable royal figures. 

Windsor Castle in a rainy summer - own picture

Summer Openings of Royal Residences

The summer months bring the rare opportunity for the public to step inside some of Europe’s most iconic royal residences. In the Netherlands, the Summer Opening of Palace Noordeinde offers a glimpse into the working palace of King Willem-Alexander. In the UK, both Buckingham Palace and Windsor Castle open their doors, allowing visitors to explore the regal State Rooms and enjoy special exhibitions from the Royal Collection.

Personal Royal Celebrations

July also marks significant personal milestones for several royal families:

Wedding anniversary of King Albert and Queen Paola (Belgium) – July 2- married in 1959

Wedding anniversary of Prince Albert and Princess Charlene (Monaco) – July 11 - married in 2011

Crown Princess Victoria’s  birthday (Sweden) – July 14 - born in 1977 : Known as “Victoriadagen,” this national celebration includes concerts and royal appearances, capturing the hearts of Swedes.

Queen Camilla’s birthday (UK) – July 17 - born in 1947: Queen Consort Camilla's birthday may be marked with special photos or public appearances, adding to the royal charm of the month.

Belgian National Day (Belgium) – July 21

Belgian National Day is a spectacular celebration of national unity and pride, commemorating King Leopold I’s oath in 1831. The royal family traditionally participates in a Te Deum service and a grand military parade, followed by vibrant fireworks illuminating the Brussels sky. Across the nation, local concerts and cultural festivals unite Belgians in joyful celebration.

picture from King Philippe and Queen Mathilde of the Belgians
on the National Day taken by Bjorn Hoex


Prince George of Wales’ birthday (UK) – July 22 - born in 2013

As Prince George turns 12, the public eagerly anticipates new portraits released by Kensington Palace. The young prince continues to capture the public's imagination, symbolizing the future of the British monarchy.


The royal cards I wrote for July

Some royal exhibitions of July

🇳🇱 Paleis Het Loo (Apeldoorn, Netherlands)
Counterplay – A Century of Female Monarchs (18 April – 31 August 2025)
Explores the reigns of three Dutch queens—Wilhelmina, Juliana, and Beatrix—and their evolving roles amid social change. Features personal artifacts, myths, and media, offering fresh perspectives on female leadership

🇫🇷 Château de Versailles (France)
Genius and Majesty: Louis XIV by Bernini (3 June – 28 Sept 2025)
Masterful sculptures and portraits tracing Bernini’s influence on the Sun King, held in Versailles’ stately halls
Het Loo Palace Apeldoorn - Own Picture

 

BE Namur - Le TreM.a Queen Louise d’Orléans
This lovely small exhibition about the first Queen of the Belgians is extended till August 17th.
More about this exhibition (we visited it) on this link.  


July is indeed a month of royal splendor, offering a captivating glimpse into the traditions, celebrations, and personal milestones of Europe's royal families. Whether through public events or personal festivities, the royal calendar never fails to enchant and inspire.

Join the Royal Conversation

Have you attended one of these royal events or visited a palace this July? I’d love to hear about your experiences! 💬

I want to make the royal highlights calendar every month. Where are you interested in? Let me know!👑✨


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