Prince George and his younger sister, Princess Charlotte, made a rare public appearance Thursday, gleefully acting their ages as they chased after bubbles and balloons during a children’s party thrown for local military families.
The young siblings mingled with other youngsters on the gardens of Victoria’s Government House, where the royal family is staying during their weeklong visit to Canada.
The outdoor party featured a petting zoo, puppet show and pony rides, but it was a balloon arch that immediately caught the attention of 16-month-old Charlotte, who was overheard by some squealing, "pop!"
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Meanwhile, Charlotte’s 3-year-old big brother, George, kept himself amused by chasing after bubbles, and even creating some with a fish-shaped bubble gun.
Both took a turn among the animals on the grounds. George went for a ride on a miniature horse.
Meanwhile, Charlotte pounced upon a very patient dog named Moose who works with cancer patients.
Always within arm's reach of the royal siblings were their parents, Prince William and Kate, Duchess of Cambridge. The entire family arrived in Canada last Saturday. While the children have remained with their nanny at the Government House, the duke and duchess have paid official visits to various locations throughout British Columbia and Yukon.
Thursday's royal play date marks the public's first occasion to see Charlotte interact with others. Her parents drastically reduced their public appearances of both Charlotte and her brother after complaining about aggressive and dangerous tactics paparazzi used to take pictures of George. As a result, they have mainly been seen through carefully staged events or photographs released by her parents.
Following the children's party, the royal family spent the remainder of the day privately.