King Charles III commenced Royal Week celebrations in Edinburgh on Saturday by opening the seventh session of the Scottish Parliament since its establishment in 1999. The monarch's arrival was marked by the traditional Ceremony of the Keys held in the gardens of the Palace of Holyroodhouse.
Royal Week Engagements
The day's proceedings began with the ceremonial escort of the Crown of Scotland from Edinburgh Castle to the Scottish Parliament. A fanfare was performed in the debating chamber by the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland brass ensemble before the King officially opened the new parliamentary session. He was later scheduled to host an investiture ceremony and a garden party at the Palace of Holyroodhouse alongside Queen Camilla, the Duke of Edinburgh, and the Princess Royal.
Honours and Awards
Among those scheduled to receive honours were forensic scientist Lorna Dawson, who was awarded a damehood in the New Year Honours, and New Seekers singer Eve Graham, who was recognized with an MBE for her contributions to the music industry. Simon Milne, the regius keeper of the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh, was also set to receive a knighthood for his services to botany, conservation, and horticulture.
