How Kate Middleton’s moving St Patrick’s Day traditions put the holiday back on the map for the royals after 100 years

For more than a century, royal women have upheld the St Patrick’s Day tradition of presenting shamrocks to the Irish Guards. Since marrying Prince William, Kate Middleton has embraced this role, regularly attending the annual parade – and establishing it as a key event in the royal calendar.

The Irish Guards was founded in 1900 by Queen Victoria, and the custom of handing out shamrocks began in 1901, introduced by her daughter-in-law, Queen Alexandra. Each year on St Patrick’s Day shamrocks are distributed to the Irish Guards who serve in the British Armed Forces.

During times of war shamrocks are sent to troops on active duty, often placed inside their Kevlar helmets for good luck. For those stationed at home, the highest honour is to receive the shamrock directly from a senior royal. This duty became a hallmark of the Queen Mother until her death. Princess Anne continued the tradition for some time, but since 2012 it has been carried out by Kate, as William served as the Royal Regiment Colonel.

However, in 2023, Kate became the Honorary Regiment Colonel of the Irish Guards, succeeding her husband. Dressed in his Irish Guards Frock Coat, William delivered a heartfelt speech in which he expressed his sadness for stepping aside and described the role as ‘one of the great honours of my life’. 

‘I may be stepping aside, but in Colonel Catherine you have a committed, focused and already incredibly loyal 11th Colonel,’ he said. ‘As you serve together over the years ahead, know that I will continue to watch you, with huge pride in having been one of you.’

Each year, around 400 soldiers march across Parade Square, followed by a traditional group photo with William and Kate, who then attend a special reception.  In 2019, the couple appeared delighted to be reunited with Domhnall, the Irish wolfhound mascot they had met on several occasions. Domhnall, whose name means ‘world leader’ in Gaelic, traditionally led the soldiers during the parade. 

Kate was seen warmly patting the dog as she presented him with a shamrock, showing her affection for the beloved canine, who officially retired from his ceremonial role that September after nearly seven years of service. During the reception, William presents medals to officers and guardsmen of the 1st Battalion, and the couple spend time speaking with soldiers and their families. 

In a nod to Ireland’s national day, Kate typically wears outfits in varying shades of green, breaking from tradition only once in 2015 when she opted for a chestnut brown ensemble. Her most recent look was perhaps her most striking yet, as she chose head-to-toe teal, subtly reflecting the Irish Guards’ plume. 

Her bespoke Catherine Walker coat featured a stand collar and distinctively spaced buttons, mirroring the official uniform. At every parade, Kate adorns her outfit with a delicate gold shamrock brooch by Cartier, loaned by the Irish Guards. The piece was previously worn by both the Queen Mother and Princess Anne, adding historical significance to her appearance.