Prince George Fights Back a Sneeze During the National Anthem, Laughs Along with Kate Middleton
Prince George briefly became the focus of attention during the 2026 Trooping the Colour after seemingly trying to hold in a sneeze while the royal family stood on the balcony of Buckingham Palace for the Royal Air Force flypast. A video shared on X by The Telegraph showed the 12-year-old prince at attention during the national anthem before covering his nose and mouth and sneezing just as the ceremony concluded. He then laughed about the moment with his mother, Kate Middleton, the Princess of Wales, who gently placed a hand on his back as the family prepared to leave the balcony.
The annual military parade, which celebrates the official birthday of the British sovereign, took place in London with more than 1,400 soldiers, horses and musicians taking part at Horse Guards Parade. Prince William, Princess Charlotte, Prince Louis, King Charles and Queen Camilla joined Kate and Prince George for the traditional appearance on the palace balcony, where they waved to the crowd.
Kate Middleton also had a sneeze of her own earlier in the day during the festivities at Horse Guards Parade, adding a lighthearted note to the royal event. But the biggest talking point among royal watchers was once again Prince Louis, who continued his reputation for animated and playful behavior. The 8-year-old prince made a series of expressive faces during the ceremony, including a surprised look as he scanned the crowd. Photos from the day also showed him accompanying his mother during the carriage procession.
Louis has become known for his exuberant appearances at royal events. In previous years, he has waved long after other family members lowered their hands, danced to the music of military bands, and made humorous facial expressions that regularly draw public attention. His behavior has turned him into one of the most memorable figures at major royal celebrations, often providing a more spontaneous contrast to the formality of the occasion.
This year’s Trooping the Colour also drew attention for Kate Middleton’s outfit. The Princess of Wales wore a powder blue Catherine Walker coat dress that echoed a similar look once worn by Princess Diana, the late mother of Prince William. The resemblance added a symbolic touch to the appearance, underscoring the continuing public interest in the Wales family and the traditions associated with the annual celebration.
Overall, the 2026 ceremony mixed pageantry and family moments, with Prince George’s sneezing fit and Prince Louis’s playful expressions offering a glimpse of the royal children’s personalities amid one of the monarchy’s most formal and closely watched public events.
