As preparations get underway for this year’s Trooping the Colour, we take a look back at the grand event over the years.
In honour of Queen Elizabeth’s 90th birthday the annual tradition of the Trooping the Colour ceremony will see all our favourite royals. It will also mark (fingers crossed) Princess Charlotte Elizabeth Diana of Cambridge’s first official balcony debut since her birth on May 2nd last year.
The event is one of the most spectacular days in the royal calendar and dates all the way back to the 17th century.
Trooping the Colour is performed by regiments of the British and Commonwealth armies. In the past, it took place on battlefields and regiment’s colours or flags were used as rallying points.
These days, Trooping the Colour is a celebratory parade in honour of the Queen’s birthday – despite it actually being on April 21. It is carried out by fully trained troops from the Household Division (Foot Guards and Household Cavalry) on Horse Guards Parade in Whitehall.
It is expected that over 1,400 officers, 400 musicians and 200 horses will attend. The Queen herself will travel by carriage from Buckingham Palace to Horse Guards Parade across St. James’s Park to inspect her troops, receive a royal salute and take a salute of her own.
The glorious event has been watched by generations of the Royal Family, invited guests and members of the public.
In honour of this exciting day, we take a look back at Duchess Catherine, Princess Diana and the royal family enjoying the Trooping the Colour over the past years.
Last year, gorgeous George made his balcony debut at the historical event!
The royal cutie stole thousands of hearts when he gave this wave.
In honour of Queen Elizabeth’s birthday the annual tradition of the Trooping the Colour ceremony – we will see all our favourite royals enjoying the spectacular event.
Hats off to Duchess Catherine, who always looks elegant at the celebrations.
The royals all ride in carriages to the event.
The big day is a celebration to each British monarch’s official birthday, although Her Majesty’s actual birth date is April 21.
It is carried out by fully trained troops from the Household Division (Foot Guards and Household Cavalry) on Horse Guards Parade in Whitehall.
It is expected that over 1,400 officers, 400 musicians and 200 horses in tow, the Queen is paraded in a carriage from Buckingham Palace to Horse Guards Parade across St. James’s Park to inspect her troops, receive a royal salute and take a salute of her own.
Duchess Catherine and Prince William always have a blast during the spectacular proceedings.
The Buckingham Palace balcony is the place to be. You can expect to see all the royals enjoying their day from there.
We can’t help but notice how much Duchess Catherine reminds us of, Princess Diana.
Both of the beautiful royals always made the children feel at ease over the years.
Harry, Kate and William share a laugh at the 2011 ceremony. Watch George charm the crowds in the next slide. Gallery continues…
A young William and Harry lark about, much to the delight of their parents and grandparents.
Princess Anne shows off her impressive equestrian skills.
The event is the perfect opportunity for the young royals to get involved.
Just like her late mother-in-law, Princess Diana, Kate knows how to step up her style.
Prince Harry was cheeky from the beginning!
The Queen, the Queen Mother and Princess Diana watch on intently.
