Rituals and events mark the calendar year for the castle and its staff.

Rituals and events mark the calendar year for the castle and its staff. With Easter, the royal year begins in earnest, as the queen conducts her engagements from the castle. Two of the year's largest events take place in June. The Order of the Garter ceremony, an annual celebration of Britain's oldest and highest order of chivalry, draws former politicians, national heroes, long-serving representatives of the crown and crowds of spectators. The biggest event in the racing calendar, the Royal Ascot, takes place on the impressive castle grounds. From horse racing to waging bets on the color of the queen's hat, this event brings together the demimonde and high society for a celebration of pomp and horseflesh.