Holyrood Week, also known as Royal Week in Scotland, is an annual celebration that highlights the deep-rooted connection between the Monarchy and Scotland.
Taking place each summer, usually in late June or early July, the week sees the reigning Monarch travel to Edinburgh to engage in ceremonial duties and public engagements. This event celebrates Scotland’s rich heritage and culture, as well as the enduring relationship between the Crown and the Scottish people.
Elizabeth II attended the Ceremony of the Keys at Holyroodhouse as part of Holyrood week. (Royal Family)
Key Events During Holyrood Week
Throughout Holyrood Week, the Monarch participates in a variety of ceremonial, charitable, and cultural engagements. These include:
– The Ceremony of the Keys – This formal event marks the Monarch’s arrival at the Palace of Holyroodhouse. The Lord Provost of Edinburgh offers the keys to the city to the Monarch, who symbolically returns them, signifying the Monarch’s trust in the city’s leadership.
The Ceremony of the Keys marks the beginning of Holyrood Week. (Royal Family)
– The First Minister – The Monarch traditionally has an Audience with the First Minister during the week.
– Garden Party at the Palace of Holyroodhouse – One of the highlights of the week, the garden party at the Palace invites thousands of guests from various communities and sectors across Scotland to celebrate their contributions to society.
– Investitures and Honours – During the week, the Monarch holds special ceremonies to bestow honours upon Scottish individuals who have made significant contributions to public life.
A garden party at the Palace is a staple event during Holyrood Week. (Royal Family)
The Thistle service takes place during Holyrood Week every two years. (Royal Family)
– The Thistle Service – It is a ceremonial event held every two years to celebrate Scotland’s most prestigious chivalric order – the Order of the Thistle. The service takes place at the Thistle Chapel in St Giles’ Cathedral, Edinburgh – a space rich in Gothic design and historical significance. During the ceremony, newly appointed Knights and Ladies of the Order are formally invested, receiving their insignia in the presence of the Monarch, who acts as Sovereign of the Order. The event honours individuals who have demonstrated exceptional dedication to public service or national contributions. Following the service, a reception is held at the Signet Library, providing an opportunity for guests to gather before proceeding to a formal lunch at the Palace of Holyroodhouse.
@crownchronicles A peel inside the Thistle Chapel in #stgilescathedral #Edinburgh #orderofthethistle #royalfamily #royaltok #crownchronicles #royal #history #architecture ♬ To Edinburgh – Ian Post
– Engagements across Scotland – Beyond Edinburgh, the Monarch may visit other parts of Scotland to meet citizens, open new facilities, or recognise important cultural and historical sites. Other members of the Royal Family may also undertake engagements as part of Holyrood Week.
Elizabeth II and the then-Prince of Wales at the Reddendo Parade during 2022’s Holyrood Week. (Royal Family)
In previous years, additional events during Holyrood week have included:
– the Act of Loyalty Parade – a military parade that honours the Monarch as the Head of the British Armed Forces. 2022 saw representatives from the Army, the Royal Navy and the Royal Air Force pay tribute to Elizabeth II in her Platinum Jubilee year and the 200th anniversary of George IV’s visit to Scotland in 1822. Her late Majesty met serving military personnel and cadets and was presented with the keys to Edinburgh Castle.
– the Reddendo Parade – It is a presentation that demonstrates the role of the Royal Company of Archers, as the Monarch’s ceremonial Body Guard, a role that was first created in 1822 by George IV during a visit to Scotland. The tradition began in 1704 during the reign of Queen Anne.
Cultural and Social Impact
Holyrood Week holds significant cultural and social value. It serves as a reminder of Scotland’s distinct identity within the United Kingdom and the respect accorded to its unique traditions. It also highlights the unity and shared history that bind Scotland and the rest of the UK.
For many Scottish people, Holyrood Week is an opportunity to engage with the Monarchy directly, fostering a sense of connection and pride. The events and ceremonies provide a platform for recognising local heroes, community leaders, and those who have dedicated their lives to improving Scottish society.
The Monarch conducts a number of engagements as part of Holyrood Week. (Royal Family)
A Living Tradition
Holyrood Week remains a cherished tradition that adapts to contemporary times while respecting historical roots. The event exemplifies the Monarchy’s commitment to Scotland and underscores the role of tradition in strengthening national unity.
Holyrood Week not only celebrates the Monarchy but also the people of Scotland, their achievements, and the rich tapestry of culture and history that defines the nation.
