Prince William's birthday celebrations kick off with Queen's message and colorful balloons

Prince William's birthday celebrations have officially commenced with a sweet message from the Queen, well wishes from fans, and balloons from Kate Middleton. 

• Prince William's birthday plans are underway following the release of a sweet message from his grandmother, the Queen. 
• The Duke of Cambridge, born on June 21, 1982, will spend his 39th birthday with his wife, Kate Middleton, and three children at Sandringham Estate. 
• In other royal news, the Queen continues the floral trend at Royal Ascot with a stunning mint green hat—and there's a special significance behind it.

Prince William's birthday celebrations kicked off this morning with a sweet message from the Queen, followed by an outpouring of well-wishes from both Royal Family members and loyal fans. 

The Duke of Cambridge may be ringing in his birthday in lockdown for the second year in a row, but that doesn't mean he can't enjoy the joyful occasion. Prince William is expected to celebrate turning 39 at Kensington Palace with his wife, Kate Middleton, and their three children, in what will be a lowkey yet "special" event. 

The Queen was one of the first to wish her grandson a happy birthday, taking to Twitter to say, "Wishing The Duke of Cambridge a very Happy Birthday today. #HappyBirthdayHRH."

The Prince of Wales and the Duchess of Cornwall followed suit, posting a nostalgic message in honor of the royal heir's summer solstice birthday. Prince Charles shared a rare photo of him and Prince William as a baby in a sweet birthday tribute in a move that delighted fans and highlighted their close father-son relationship. 

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge's social media also embraced the birthday spirit. The royal couple's Twitter profile greets visitors to the page with floating, animated balloons, as well as a thank you message from Prince William for all the well-wishes. 

As for the day's itinerary, it looks like the Duke will be marking the occasion by celebrating with his immediate family. Coronavirus restrictions forbid him from having a proper bash, which means he'll have to make do with a quieter affair in the privacy of his home at Kensington Palace. 

Fortunately, Kate has a reputation as being quite the event planner when it comes to special occasions. Having previously worked for her parents' party supplies business, she knows all the secrets to jazz up a shindig with limited resources. 

"Kate always makes birthdays and celebrations special for William and the children," royal biographer Katie Nicholl told OK! magazine. "She's very much like her mother Carole in that respect." 

According to Nicholl, it's especially important for Kate this year to treat her husband on his birthday. After the first Father's Day without Prince Philip and the ongoing rift with his brother, Prince Harry, the Duchess desperately wants William to have a relaxing day. She is predicted to organize a wholesome party for him and their three kids, complete with a freshly baked cake and homemade cards. 

"Kate keeps William very grounded and she likes to show how important he is to her and the children," Nicholl explained.

"She'll be aware that this year has been tough for William and will want both his birthday and Father's Day to be special for him."