King Charles III’s upcoming address to Parliament marks a significant milestone in Canada’s relationship with the monarchy – the first throne speech delivered by a reigning monarch on Canadian soil in over 60 years.
The King’s visit comes at a delicate moment for the Royal Family and the Commonwealth. As Canadians prepare for this historic occasion, many are wondering how to witness this rare royal appearance in Ottawa.
The monarch will deliver the speech from the Senate Chamber on May 20, outlining the government’s legislative priorities in a tradition dating back to Confederation. While Queen Elizabeth II visited Canada 22 times during her reign, she never delivered a throne speech, making this event particularly noteworthy.
“This represents a meaningful opportunity to celebrate our constitutional monarchy,” said Dr. Barbara Messamore, professor of history at the University of the Fraser Valley. “The King’s presence underscores the living connection between our parliamentary system and the Crown.”
For those hoping to watch, CBC and CTV will provide live coverage beginning at 3:30 p.m. Eastern. The speech itself is expected to start around 4 p.m., with royal watchers anticipating the King will blend traditional elements with his own personal touches – possibly including references to climate action, a cause he has championed for decades.
The royal visit includes several other public events. Their Majesties will participate in a wreath-laying ceremony at the National War Memorial earlier in the day. Following the throne speech, a reception at Rideau Hall will welcome community leaders and dignitaries from across the country.
Security measures have been heightened throughout downtown Ottawa, with the Parliamentary Protective Service coordinating with the RCMP. Road closures will affect Wellington Street and surrounding areas throughout the day, with officials recommending public transit for anyone hoping to catch a glimpse of the royal motorcade.
This throne speech comes as Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s government faces significant political headwinds. Recent polls from Abacus Data show Liberal support at just 25 percent nationally, with the Conservatives maintaining a commanding lead heading toward a likely 2025 election.
“The timing is interesting politically,” noted Lori Turnbull, Director of the School of Public Administration at Dalhousie University. “The government needs to reset the narrative, and having the King deliver their agenda creates an opportunity to do that with added gravitas.”
The King’s health has been a concern following his cancer diagnosis earlier this year, but Buckingham Palace confirmed he has been cleared by doctors for the Canadian journey. The trip has been shortened from initial plans, focusing primarily on events in Ottawa rather than a cross-country tour.
For many Canadians, this represents a rare chance to see the monarch performing one of his constitutional duties. While opinions on the monarchy’s relevance vary widely across the country – particularly among younger Canadians – the historic nature of the occasion has generated significant interest.
“I’ll definitely be watching,” said Ottawa resident Marie Levesque, 67. “I remember seeing Queen Elizabeth visit when I was a child. To see King Charles actually giving a throne speech feels like witnessing a piece of history.”
For those unable to watch live, recordings will be available on CBC Gem and CTV’s digital platforms immediately following the broadcast. Parliament’s website will also feature the full text of the speech shortly after its delivery.
The throne speech traditionally outlines the government’s agenda for the upcoming parliamentary session, touching on priorities across healthcare, housing, economic development, and foreign policy. Having the King deliver this message adds symbolic weight to the proceedings, though the content reflects the elected government’s priorities rather than the monarch’s personal views.
As Canada navigates complex challenges from housing affordability to international tensions, this historic royal moment offers a brief window into our constitutional traditions – a reminder of how our parliamentary democracy functions and evolves with time.
