Kate Middleton, the Princess of Wales, enjoyed a rare birthday honor this year that only a few other royals receive: the ringing of the bells at Westminster Abbey.

This tradition, reinstated in 2023 after being halted due to financial constraints during the COVID-19 pandemic, celebrates the birthdays of the most senior royals.

Currently, the only other royals who receive this honor are King Charles III, Queen Camilla, and Prince William​ 

Westminster Abbey had previously discontinued the bell-ringing for Kate and William in 2021 due to budget cuts, limiting the honor to Queen Elizabeth II and then-Prince Charles.

However, following Queen Elizabeth’s death and the subsequent changes within the royal family, this tradition was restored for Kate, marking her vital role in the monarchy​

Despite this special recognition, it is uncertain if the bell-ringing will continue in the future as royal traditions can evolve with changing circumstances and priorities within the family and the institution