The key facts

  • The royal couple sat next to Prime Minister Gaston Browne; they were greeted by Governor-General Rodney Williams.
  • The ceremony honoured citizens for their contributions to national development.
  • The visit coincided with the CHOGM summit on 1–4 November, focused on investment, development and international cooperation.

Downpour at the independence ceremony

On 1 November 2026, King Charles III and Queen Camilla were caught in a heavy downpour during the celebration of Antigua and Barbuda's Independence Day, as reported by Euronews. The ceremony took place at the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium, where the royal couple was greeted by Governor-General Rodney Williams. The King and Queen sat next to the country's Prime Minister, Gaston Browne.

Context of the visit

The ceremony honoured citizens for their contributions to national development. The visit coincided with the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) being held in Antigua and Barbuda from 1 to 4 November, bringing together leaders to discuss investment, development and international cooperation. The date of the celebration is no coincidence: the Caribbean nation gained independence from the United Kingdom on 1 November 1981, meaning 2026 marks the 45th anniversary of independence.