Princess Lilibet, the youngest child of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, was spotted alongside her father at the Independence Day parade in Montecito.
This event took place just hours before her grandfather, King Charles III, attended his second coronation ceremony in Edinburgh.
The Duke of Sussex seemed to emphasize his departure from the royal family as he brought his daughter to the California celebration on July 4th, coinciding with America’s commemoration of its independence from British rule.
While Prince Harry introduced two-year-old Lilibet to the festivities of the Montecito Association’s Village Roadshow, his father, King Charles, was preparing for a significant moment in his reign – his second coronation in the country that his son once called home.
Amidst countless American flags, cheering crowds, and nationwide parties, Prince Harry carried his precious daughter in his arms, trying to maintain a low profile.
He wore blue jeans, a green skirt, a green cap pulled over his face, and sunglasses, while Lilibet donned a blue dress, white socks, and red shoes.
She curiously peered out of the passing motorcade during the parade.
The event Prince Harry attended showcased vehicles adorned with Independence Day-themed decorations.
However, it occurred just before one of the most significant days in his father’s life.
As Prince Harry joined the celebrations as a British royal, some members of the crowd expressed their surprise and disappointment.
Shouts of “Why are you here?
Go back to England!”
filled the air, reflecting the mixed sentiments towards his presence.
Criticism also arose regarding Lilibet’s outfit, which was deemed unsuitable for the occasion.
However, given the scorching July weather in Southern California, it is understandable that she was dressed in a manner more suited to a seaside town like Santa Monica, rather than adhering to traditional royal attire.
The choice of a knee-length dress and knee socks for a toddler in the hot sun raised eyebrows among onlookers.
Many felt that a more comfortable and weather-appropriate outfit, such as a t-shirt and shorts in variations of red, white, and blue, would have been more fitting for a Fourth of July parade.
Lilibet’s dress and Mary Jane shoes seemed excessive for the occasion, leading to speculation that she was dressed up solely for public consumption and media attention.
The irony of Prince Harry, a prince from the United Kingdom, celebrating America’s Independence Day was not lost on some observers.
The founding fathers declared the thirteen colonies free and independent from the rule of King George III, making the United States a sovereign nation.
As Prince Harry enthusiastically participated in the American celebration, his father’s coronation took place, symbolizing the continuation of the British monarchy.
This contrast prompted questions about the true significance of Harry’s participation in the event.