The King, accompanied by Queen Camilla, traveled in the Diamond Jubilee State Coach from Buckingham Palace to Westminster for the ceremony, which dates back centuries.
Protesters with placards were present as the royal procession made its way to Parliament. Upon arrival, King Charles used the Sovereign's Entrance and proceeded to the throne in the House of Lords. Queen Camilla, dressed in her coronation attire, joined the King.
In the Robing Room, King Charles donned the Imperial State Crown and ceremonial robes before delivering his speech in the House of Lords. MPs were summoned to the Lords by Black Rod, while the Commons Speaker, Sir Lindsay Hoyle, led the procession into the House of Commons.
During his speech, King Charles paid tribute to his mother, Queen Elizabeth II, for her "legacy of service and devotion to this country." He outlined the government's current priorities, which included investment in transport, anti-smoking laws for children, and tougher sentences for serious offenders.
The State Opening of Parliament is a rare ceremonial event, and the last King to oversee it was George VI in 1950. After the speech, King Charles and Queen Camilla returned to Buckingham Palace in the Diamond Jubilee State Coach.