
Upon ascending the throne in 1952, Queen Elizabeth II not only became the monarch of the United Kingdom but also became head of the Commonwealth. Originally, this included seven independent states – the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, Pakistan, and Ceylon. Since then, the Commonwealth has grown to 16 realms and 54 independent member states.
Traditionally, Commonwealth Day is celebrated with an Anglican service at Westminster Abbey in March. The Queen is known to give a speech broadcast throughout the Commonwealth, and she is joined by other members of the Commonwealth and the Royal Family.
Because of the pandemic, the 2021 service is cancelled. In light of the cancellation, Royal Central is taking a look at the outfits Her Majesty has worn to the annual service throughout the years.
9 March 2020
[getty src=”1211453693″ width=”349″ height=”594″ tld=”com”]11 March 2019
[getty src=”1135170215″ width=”384″ height=”594″ tld=”com”]12 March 2018
[getty src=”930998032″ width=”308″ height=”594″ tld=”com”]13 March 2017
[getty src=”652890558″ width=”404″ height=”594″ tld=”com”]14 March 2016
[getty src=”515565948″ width=”370″ height=”594″ tld=”com”]9 March 2015
[getty src=”465685870″ width=”452″ height=”594″ tld=”com”]10 March 2014
[getty src=”477689977″ width=”391″ height=”594″ tld=”com”]12 March 2012
[getty src=”141193239″ width=”423″ height=”594″ tld=”com”]14 March 2011
[getty src=”110065273″ width=”450″ height=”594″ tld=”com”]8 March 2010
[getty src=”158139237″ width=”386″ height=”594″ tld=”com”]9 March 2009
[getty src=”85312580″ width=”380″ height=”594″ tld=”com”]10 March 2008
[getty src=”1264267361″ width=”350″ height=”594″ tld=”com”]12 March 2007
[getty src=”1272750312″ width=”461″ height=”594″ tld=”com”]13 March 2006
[getty src=”57064968″ width=”414″ height=”594″ tld=”com”]For Commonwealth Day 2006, Her Majesty was in Australia on a five day visit. The annual service was held at St Andrews Cathedral in Sydney.