State Dinner Planned for King Charles III Visit Marks 250th Anniversary of Independence
First Lady Melania Trump releases plans for a four-course meal featuring historic china and military performances as the King's state visit proceeds following recent security incidents.
First Lady Melania Trump has released comprehensive details regarding a State Dinner hosted by President Donald J. Trump and herself to welcome King Charles III and Queen Camilla of the United Kingdom. The event, scheduled for Tuesday, 28 April 2026, is designed to honour the Special Relationship between the two nations while commemorating the 250th anniversary of American independence.
The White House briefing outlines a four-course menu curated by the First Lady, beginning with a garden vegetable velouté featuring hearts of palm and toasted shallots. Subsequent courses include spring herb ravioli with ricotta and morels, followed by Dover Sole Meunière served with potato pavé and spring ramps. The evening concludes with a beehive-shaped chocolate gâteau accompanied by vanilla bean crémeux and crème fraîche ice cream.
Decorative arrangements for the reception reflect a shared appreciation for gardens, with cherry blossoms displayed in the Grand Foyer and lilac blooms adorning the tables. The table settings incorporate more than 250 pieces of vermeil from the White House collection alongside hand-crafted ceramics by American artisan Ben Wolff. Historically significant tableware will be utilised, with the Clinton Anniversary Service and Bush china services both employed to serve the various courses.
Entertainment for the evening will feature performances by United States military musicians from the Marines, Army, and Air Force. The lineup includes The President's Own United States Marine Band, The United States Army Chorus, The United States Army Strings, The United States Army Herald Trumpets, The United States Air Force Singing Sergeants, and The United States Air Force Strings.
The State Dinner forms part of a broader state visit by King Charles III and Queen Camilla intended to strengthen diplomatic ties. Buckingham Palace has confirmed that the King's four-day itinerary remains unchanged despite a recent shooting incident at the White House, ensuring the scheduled events proceed as planned.
The release of these specific logistical details underscores the administration's focus on reinforcing institutional bonds through ceremonial protocol. By integrating historic artifacts and military traditions into the event, the White House aims to highlight the enduring friendship between the United States and the United Kingdom against the backdrop of a significant national milestone.