Since the 18th century, Trooping the Colour has been a tradition of the British Infantry Regiments and marked the official birthday of the British sovereign. For the last 70 years, it was a celebration of Queen Elizabeth II. Now, it’s time for her son, King Charles III as he marks his first Trooping the Colour as sovereign.
Taking place on a Saturday in June, the pageantry includes The King’s personal troops, the Household Division, on Horse Guards Parade, and His Majesty attending and taking the salute. More than 1,400 officers and men are expected to be on parade. That’s in addition to the 200 horses, more than 400 musicians from 10 bands, and corps of drums. About 113 words of command will be given by the Officer of Command during the event.
The parade begins at Buckingham Palace and moves down The Mall to Horse Guards Parade, Whitehall. During the ceremony, His Majesty will be greeted by a Royal salute and carry out an inspection of the troops. On the way back to the Palace, His Majesty will ride back as head of his Guards before he takes a salute at the Palace. As troops return to barracks, other members of the royal family will join The King and Queen for a balcony appearance as the Royal Air Force makes a fly-past.
The King is expected to ride on horseback alongside the Prince of Wales during the event. It is nearly certain The Princess Royal will be on horseback as she continues her role as Colonel of the Blues and Royals Household Cavalry. Other members of the Royal Family will be in carriages following His Majesty. Not only is this a new era of the annual event for the Royal Family, but many members will also hold new roles.
Following his accession, The King appointed several family members with ceremonial military roles. The Princess of Wales is now Colonel of the Irish Guards, a role previously held by her husband who is now the Colonel of the Welsh Guards. Her Majesty The Queen is Colonel of the Grenadier Guards. This honour was previously held by Prince Andrew until January 2022.
Trooping the Colour begins at 10 am Saturday 17 June. The fly-past is scheduled for 1 pm.
