A Night of Diplomacy, Elegance and Royal Splendour at Windsor Castle
German president accepts invitation for state visit to U.K. in December – Washington Times

Windsor Castle shone with unmatched grandeur this evening as King Charles III and Queen Camilla welcomed Federal President Frank-Walter Steinmeier and Mrs. Elke Büdenbender for a breathtaking State Banquet — a night that blended political significance with royal tradition in the most dazzling way.

From the moment guests began arriving at St George’s Hall, it was clear that this would be a banquet to remember. The castle’s historic corridors glowed with warm light, ceremonial guards lined the entrance, and the air carried that unmistakable sense of royal occasion.

A Banquet Symbolising Friendship and Respect
State Banquets are among the most prestigious events a monarch hosts, reserved for honouring key international partners. Tonight’s event celebrated the long-standing relationship between the United Kingdom and Germany, highlighting cooperation, shared values, and cultural ties that span centuries.

King Charles and Queen Camilla greeted President Steinmeier and Mrs. Büdenbender with full ceremonial honours before leading them into the hall — a symbolic gesture that reflects the deep respect between the two nations.

Inside St George’s Hall: A Scene Worthy of a Fairytale
Guests stepped into a hall transformed into a masterpiece of royal décor.
The banquet table stretched nearly the entire length of the room, dressed with:

glittering crystal glassware

polished silver gilt pieces from the Royal Collection

floral arrangements designed in soft seasonal colours

hundreds of candles reflecting off centuries-old shields and stonework

Every setting was measured with precision, every detail chosen to honour the distinguished guests. The atmosphere was both majestic and warmly festive — a balance Windsor Castle does better than anywhere else.

A Touch of Christmas Magic
German president gets royal treatment on UK state visit

Adding to the enchantment was the castle’s iconic Christmas décor, including the towering Nordmann Fir tree rising above the hall’s decorations. Laden with thousands of lights, it added a glow that made the evening feel not only official but also beautifully atmospheric.

Speeches, Toasts, and Moments That Mattered
During the banquet, King Charles delivered a heartfelt speech celebrating the enduring friendship between the UK and Germany, acknowledging shared history, cultural ties, and the importance of unity.
President Steinmeier responded with warm words of appreciation, emphasising cooperation and the significance of the occasion.

The evening carried a tone of optimism — a reminder that diplomacy can be elegant, meaningful, and full of humanity.

A Royal Night That Captivated the World
King Charles and Queen Camilla Host a State Banquet for the German President

With royalty, world leaders, and distinguished guests seated together in one of the most historic rooms in Europe, tonight’s banquet reminded everyone why Windsor Castle remains a symbol of ceremony, tradition, and global connection.

The gowns, the jewels, the speeches, the setting — every part of the evening combined to create a night that will be remembered far beyond the castle walls.