Luca Teuchmann/WireImageSt. Patrick's Day looked a bit different this year for the Irish Guards.
Instead of being presented with a sprig of Shamrock from Princess Kate Middleton—which they've experienced over the last five years—Prince William decided to carry out the tradition this year.
A Kensington Palace spokesperson tells E! News, "The Duchess has very much enjoyed the occasions when she has been able to attend, but the Duke is the Colonel of the Regiment and is looking forward to presenting the Irish Guards with their Shamrock."
Worry not, though, nothing substantial has occurred in the royal home. Rather, the Duchess of Cambridge has decided to stay close to her children, Prince George and Princess Charlotte, in Norfolk ahead of leaving for lengthy state visits to India and Bhutan later next month.
"The Duchess looks forward to marking St Patrick's Day with the Irish Guards many times in the future," the Kensington Palace spokesperson added.
Kate's absence from the parade on Thursday may have raised eyebrows due to the recent controversy surrounding the royal family.
Prince William came under some scrutiny last week after reports were released that stated he only carried out less than half the appearances as his 94-year-old grandfather, the Duke of Edinburgh. Though people began referring to William as a "part-time" royal, the Duke shrugged off the criticism as simply a "part of the job."