What is Trooping the Colour?
Marking the King’s official birthday, the Trooping the Colour ceremony takes place each June. Learn more about it below.
The Trooping the Colour ceremony, also called the “King’s Birthday Parade” marks the sovereign’s official birthday. It is an annual ceremony dating back to King Charles I. This year, the ceremony will take place on June 15th with over 1,400 officers and soldiers participating in the parade. The procession will travel from Buckingham Palace, down the Mall and back. Due to his ongoing cancer battle, King Charles will ride in the carriage alongside Queen Camilla, instead of on horseback. Members of the royal family will then gather on the balcony of Buckingham Palace to watch a fly-by performed by the Royal Air Force.
Origins of Trooping the Colour
Historically, regimental flags of the British Army were displayed during battle, known as ‘colours’. These flags would be raised in battle as a rallying point for soldiers on the battlefield.
Breaking Down the Ceremony
This year, the King will travel down the Mall in a carriage instead of on horseback, escorted by the Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment.
The King will then arrive to take the Royal Salute from the Household Division on parade.
Next, the King will inspect the troops on parade.
The massed bands will then perform a musical ‘troop’. The Regimental Colour will be escorted through the ranks of Guards.
Next, The Foot Guards and Household Cavalry march past the King. The King’s Troop, Royal Horse Artillery will follow.
King Charles will then return to Buckingham Palace, taking a salute as the troops pass him on their way to the barracks.
Finally, the King joins other members of the Royal Family on the balcony of Buckingham Palace to watch a fly-by performed by the Royal Air Force.
Where to Watch?
The ceremony will be broadcast on BBC One and the BBC iPlayer.
