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FRONT ROYAL, Va.<\/strong> – <\/span>A rare sense of pageantry is sweeping through the Shenandoah Valley as the town of Front Royal prepares to welcome King Charles III and Queen Camilla<\/a> on Thursday, part of the royal couple\u2019s ongoing tour of Virginia<\/a>.<\/p>\n For this community of roughly 16,000 residents, the visit is as unexpected as it is historic. While larger cities might have seemed likely royal stops, many residents say the selection of Front Royal carries special meaning\u2014particularly as the town marks its 250th anniversary.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n “It\u2019s not every day the King and Queen of England visit your hometown,” one resident said, capturing the sense of disbelief and excitement shared across the area.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n RELATED: <\/strong>King Charles III highlights US UK bond in DC; New York 9\/11 Memorial visit set for Wednesday<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n <\/p>\n What we know:<\/p>\n <\/p>\n The royal itinerary is set to highlight both local heritage and natural beauty. Charles and Camilla are expected to take part in a parade through downtown before visiting the Shenandoah National Park, a major regional destination known for its sweeping mountain views.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Preparations have transformed the town in the days leading up to the visit. Warren County Public Schools will be closed Thursday, allowing families to attend the event. Security measures\u2014including fencing, road closures<\/a>, and checkpoints\u2014have also been implemented, creating an atmosphere more reminiscent of a high-profile state visit.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n What they’re saying:<\/p>\n <\/p>\n “It\u2019s kind of like something you\u2019d see at the White House, not in Front Royal,” said Paul Carr, whose business sits near newly installed security barriers.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Local businesses are leaning into the moment. At a downtown caf\u00e9, called “Melanie\u2019s,” a special dessert has been crafted in honor of the visiting royals, with owners hoping the occasion will bring broader attention to the town\u2019s charm and history.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n “The royalty, the history\u2014it\u2019s all descending on our very small town,” said one co-owner. “It\u2019s exciting to share a piece of our world.”<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Residents describe a mix of enthusiasm and astonishment. Some say the news took time to sink in, while others point to Front Royal\u2019s role as a gateway to the Shenandoah Valley as a fitting reason for the royal stop.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n The parade route access will open at 10 a.m. Local officials are urging visitors to arrive early due to limited parking and expected crowds. Attendees are also advised to prepare for security screenings and review prohibited items in advance.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n For many, the visit represents a once-in-a-lifetime moment\u2014one that is already placing Front Royal firmly in the national spotlight.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n The Source:<\/b> Information in this story is from the town and residents of Front Royal, Virginia.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n <\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/images.foxtv.com\/static.fox5dc.com\/www.fox5dc.com\/content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/932\/524\/front-royal-royal-visit-parade-route.png?ve=1&tl=1\")
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