Jill Biden Attends Coronation of King Charles III

First Lady Dr. Jill Biden and British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak share a laugh during a “Big Lunch” in celebration of the Coronation of King Charles III at 10 Downing Street in London on Sunday, May 7, 2023 (Official White House Photo by Erin Scott).

The First Lady traveled to London solo, as President Biden would not be in attendance.

Article by Georgia Simon, Assistant White House Editor

LONDON - Dr. Jill Biden, alongside her granddaughter Finnegan Biden, traveled to London on May 5th for the royal Coronation of King Charles III. The President will not be in attendance as no American President has ever been to a British Coronation.

“It’s an honor to represent the United States for this historic moments and celebrate the special relationship between our countries,” Dr. Biden wrote on social media before leaving for London. 

Arriving on Friday, the First Lady greeted Mrs. Akshata Murty, wife of British Prime Minister, Rishi Sunak before a meeting at 10 Downing Street.  

Alongside their meeting at the Prime Minister's residence, they also participated in a health and wellness program with veterans as well as a visit to a nearby school that was hosting a fair for the Coronation. 

Later that day, Dr. Biden visited the United States Embassy to greet the staff and families of U.S. diplomats. 

That night, Dr. Biden attended the reception at Buckingham Palace, hosted by the Royal Family. 

Representing America, the First Lady attended the Coronation of King Charles III and Queen Consort Camilla the following morning at Westminster Abbey.

Following the ceremony, Dr. Biden attended a reception hosted by Jane Hartley, United States Ambassador, later that evening. 

Before flying home on Sunday, the First Lady also attended a luncheon at the Prime Minister’s residence called a Coronation “big lunch.”