The second day of King Charles III and Queen Camilla’s official visit to the United States marked a high-profile, ceremonial welcome at the White House. Former President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump hosted the British royal couple on Tuesday, April 28, 2026, with full military honors on the South Lawn—a tradition dating back to the 18th century and the highest honor the U.S. bestows upon a visiting head of state.
A Formal Welcome with Tradition and Humor
After an informal tea reception on their first day—hosted by Trump and Melania at the White House—the royal couple attended a garden party at the British ambassador’s residence in Washington, D.C., where they mingled with guests. Today’s formal event began with the monarchs meeting official delegations from both nations before ascending the reviewing stand. A 21-gun salute echoed across the South Lawn, followed by national anthems performed by the U.S. Marine Band. King Charles and Trump then jointly inspected the troops before Trump delivered brief welcoming remarks.
“It is my great honor to welcome the King and Queen,” Trump said during the ceremony. He added with characteristic wit: “What a very British day it is today”—a lighthearted nod to the rain falling over Washington.
Fashion, Protocol, and Family
Melania Trump wore an all-white ensemble—including a hat by Eric Javits—and selected pieces from American designers Ralph Lauren and Manolo Blahnik. Known for meticulous planning, she reportedly spent months preparing every detail of the visit, down to her attire.
Also present were Vice President JD Vance and his wife Usha, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, and White House Chief of Staff Susie Wiles. From the UK side, Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper attended the ceremony.
A Personal Touch: Tributes to Trump’s Parents
In his speech, Trump paid tribute to his late parents—particularly his mother, Mary MacLeod, who was born in Scotland’s Outer Hebrides before emigrating to the U.S. and marrying Fred Trump. Reflecting on their 63-year marriage, he turned to Melania and joked: “They were married for 63 years—and, sorry, if you don’t mind, that’s a record we won’t beat, my love.” He then quipped: “Sorry—but we’ll do well, just not *that* well.”
He also told the King and Queen: “My mother fell in love with you”—a warm, personal reference underscoring the deep familial ties between the Trump family and the United Kingdom.