This September will mark one year since the passing of Queen Elizabeth II, who died peacefully at Balmoral Castle on 8 September 2022 at the age of 96.
Her death brought an end to a remarkable 70-year reign and sparked an outpouring of grief and remembrance from across Britain and around the world.
As the somber one-year anniversary approaches, members of the Royal Family are expected to pay tribute to the late monarch and her enduring legacy.
What tribute will Queen Elizabeth II have on her first death anniversary?
According to reports, the Prince and Princess of Wales will lead commemorations, likely releasing a statement or message in honor of the Queen via social media or television.
Meanwhile, King Charles III, her eldest son and successor, is said to be spending the day privately at Balmoral, the Scottish estate where his mother died.
The Queen used to celebrate the anniversary of the death of her father, King George VI, by staying at Sandringham House, where he died on February 6.
Experts believe there will be solemn remembrance but no large-scale public events.
“The public will want it to be noted, lots of people will be reflecting and remembering and that’s what the royal family will do,” said Grant Harrold, former butler to King Charles, in an interview to The Independent. “If there are any royal duties that the family are undertaking, they will continue as normal.”
Commemoration will likely take the form of social media posts and releases of archival footage and images of the Queen by members of the Royal Family.
“That’s how it will be marked because that’s the way things are done now,” Harrold noted, emphasizing the modern, digital-focused approach of younger royals like William and Kate. Quiet church visits also seem probable.
The anniversary comes at a time of transition for the monarchy. King Charles continues to adjust to his new role while working to modernize and streamline the institution.
He and Queen Consort Camilla have received high approval ratings so far, buoyed by a smooth succession. However, challenges remain, from the Prince Andrew scandal to Meghan and Harry’s rift with the family.
While the Royal Family continues its mourning, the Queen’s legacy has been firmly cemented in British life and culture.
