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Royal Parties

I couldn't believe the change that the Christmas Party brought about in my daughter. Meeting up with other Service people has made her sparkle again.

The Garden Party

By kind permission of Her Majesty The Queen, we hold an annual Garden Party at Buckingham Palace for the benefit of War Pensioners and service personnel who have received compensation from the Armed Forces Compensation Scheme. This event brings together more than 2,000 beneficiaries of all ages and services with their carers and escorts.

The Garden Party is hosted by one or more senior members of the Royal Family. Some of our beneficiaries will be presented to a Royal guest who will chat to them about their service experiences. For men and women who are proud to have served their country this is a huge honour and a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity which they will never forget, the impact of which cannot be overstated.

​We are indebted to Her Majesty for continuing to grant us the huge privilege of staging this unique event which we are proud to deliver on behalf of all the Armed Services and the Merchant Navy, as well as the wider service community.

The Christmas Tea Party

In a tradition dating back to 1921, we are hugely privileged to be permitted to hold an annual Christmas Tea Party for War Pensioners and recipients of the Armed Forces Compensation Scheme in the State Apartments of St. James’s Palace.

​One or more senior members of the Royal Family will be in attendance and will make their way around the Throne, Entrée and Queen Anne Rooms chatting to each of our beneficiaries at their tables, listening to their stories and experiences, and delighting them with their genuine interest. As they do so, some 300 guests enjoy a sumptuous afternoon tea whilst being entertained by singers, magicians, caricaturists, balloonists, silhouettists, celebrities and a military quintet.

​After the Royal guests depart, everyone moves to the adjoining Picture Gallery for the afternoon’s finale; a highly entertaining variety show featuring top class comedy, music and song with something for everyone.

​This unique event always brings a great deal of pleasure, joy and cheer to our guests. It is an opportunity to meet other service men and women of all ages, swap stories, share experiences, make new friends and renew old acquaintances. The magnificent location and happy, relaxed atmosphere help to create lasting memories and everyone leaves with their spirits raised.

ATTENDING THE GARDEN PARTY

It is not possible to directly apply for an invitation to the Not Forgotten Garden Party. However, if you would like to register your interest in future Royal Parties and any other Not Forgotten events, then please fill out a General Information Form by following the instructions on the Getting Our Help section of this website.

We also invite regimental and military associations, veterans’ organisations, Personnel Recovery Centres/Units, rehab troops and other service charities to nominate members or service users for our events. We therefore additionally recommend contacting your local military association to express your interest in The Not Forgotten’s events.
For Gentlemen:

The dress code for men is lounge suit or blazer with tie and smart trousers.

For Ladies:

For women, we advise a summer dress / skirt, or a trouser suit, with a hat or fascinator. Shoulders should be covered. 

For Serving Personnel:

Uniform or lounge suits / blazers may be worn:
RN – 1B
RM – 1B (Lovats)
Army – Service Dress (No.2)
RAF – No. 1 Service Dress
The Royal Household will announce which member of the Royal Family is attending the Garden Party a few weeks before the event.
Yes, if you are invited to the Garden Party you may be accompanied by one guest or carer. 
Medals are not compulsory but we do encourage you to wear them. Many who attend do choose to wear their medals, but not all do.
Parking will only be available for blue-badge holders and cannot, at this stage, be guaranteed. We strongly encourage those who are not granted a parking permit to use public transport or taxis as they are often the most reliable options.
Unless already informed otherwise, we ask guests to make their own accommodation and travel arrangements to and from the Palace.
A generous afternoon tea is provided at the Garden Party, but we do suggest that guests have a light lunch before the event. Victoria has a wide selection of eateries within striking distance of the Palace.