Queen Elizabeth II will be front and centre for the Royal Family in 2026 - here's why

 

The year 2026 promises to be a big one for the Royal Family. After a time of change in 2025, these coming twelve months will see them in the spotlight more than ever with big events already planned and others already rumoured. In the midst of it all will be one, very special and rather poignant moment. For in April 2026, the Royal Family will mark 100 years since the birth of Queen Elizabeth II.

Several events are already planned. We know that one of the palaces she used to call her own will be filled with the clothes that made the image of a woman who changed the Monarchy forever. In April 2026, The King's Gallery at Buckingham Palace will open an exhibition on the style of Queen Elizabeth II and everything, from her legendary Coronation gown to the headscarves that became her off duty calling card, will be on show. Called Queen Elizabeth II: Her Life in Style, it will include thousands of pieces. It's being organised by the Royal Collection Trust.

Queen Elizabeth II's wedding gown, designed by Norman Hartnell, will be part of a major show on her style

The RCT has already released its own set of commemorative china to mark the centenary, the first and possibly classiest of all the souvenirs that will pop up as this 100 year anniversary is reached. Made in spring colours, including the pale pink that always seemed to be a favourite of Queen Elizabeth II, Books, including a stunning collection of newspaper pages produced by Historic Newspapers, are also already on sale.

Cups, mugs and plates marking the anniversary of the birth of Queen Elizabeth II are already on sale

The day itself will no doubt see commemorations led by the Royal Family. The national memorial to Queen Elizabeth II will also take centre stage that day with the final design from Foster + Partners set to be revealed by April 21 2026. The memorial will be in St. James' Park, close to Buckingham Palace, and will include themed gardens, a ''Unity Bridge'', a public space named in honour of the late Queen as well as statues of Elizabeth II and her consort, Prince Philip.

It means that, three and a half years after her death, Elizabeth II will once more be front and centre for the Royal Family. In a year when the spotlight will fall on them more than ever, that might well be a good thing.