Unveiling the Magnificence: Unraveling Trooping the Colour, King Charles III's Spectacular Birthday Parade

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King Charles III’s first-ever Trooping the Colour as monarch is rapidly approaching — but what exactly does the tradition commemorate?

The annual parade, known as Trooping the Colour, is held in commemoration of the Sovereign's birthday. Royal expert Gareth Russell explained that the parade involves a group of regiments called the household division, consisting of seven cavalry regiments. These regiments are responsible for guarding the official royal residences. The highlight of the parade is when the king and queen lead a procession from Buckingham Palace down the mall to Horse Guard Parade, where the soldiers are inspected by the king. This tradition dates back to the reign of King Charles II, but it gained its status as a time-honored tradition during the reigns of George II and his grandson George III. George II ruled from 1727 to 1760, while George III served as the monarch from 1760 to 1820.

The modern event of "trooping the colour" attracts a significant crowd, according to Russell. It serves as an opportunity for the seven regiments to gather and receive formal recognition from the monarchy for their year-round role in protecting them.

The Welsh Guards rehearse the Trooping the Colour Guy Bell/Shutterstock

Charles' Trooping the Colour, scheduled for Saturday, June 17, will mark the celebration of his birth, even though his actual birthday is on November 14. In a departure from the late Queen Elizabeth II's previous celebrations, Charles' ceremony promises to be more extravagant. Buckingham Palace recently announced that the king will participate in the parade on horseback, a tradition that has not been seen in almost three decades. In comparison, Queen Elizabeth last rode on horseback in 1986 and subsequently opted for a carriage ride for the remainder of her celebrations. The royal family's official website reveals that over 1,400 soldiers, 200 horses, and 400 musicians will be part of the festivities.

"It is a significant occasion, regardless of its size, particularly as it marks the beginning of Charles III's reign. As a result, we are witnessing a greater number of soldiers participating," stated Russell, the renowned author of Do Let's Have Another Drink!: The Dry Wit and Fizzy Life of Queen Elizabeth the Queen Mother. "Charles definitely intends to take the salute while mounted on a horse. This aligns with the overall tone of the inaugural Trooping of the Colour ceremony for his reign."