Tomorrow is the official birthday of Queen Elizabeth II and it is marked by the traditional Trooping the Colour parade on Horse Guards Parade in Whitehall, which takes place on the nearest Saturday (today).
The parade is carried out by the Household Division (Foot Guards and Household Cavalry) and the British Monarchy website explains it:
“Since 1748, this parade has also marked the Sovereign’s official birthday. From the reign of Edward VII onwards, the Sovereign has taken the salute in person at Trooping the Colour.
During the ceremony, The Queen is greeted by a Royal salute and carries out an inspection of the troops.
After the massed bands have performed a musical ‘troop’, the escorted Regimental Colour is carried down the ranks.
The Foot Guards and the Household Cavalry then march past Her Majesty, and The King’s Troop, Royal Horse Artillery, rank past.
The Queen rides in a carriage back to Buckingham Palace at the head of her Guards, before taking the salute at the Palace from a dais. The troops then return to barracks.
Her Majesty then joins other members of the Royal Family on the palace balcony for a fly-past by the Royal Air Force.”
If you’re in London today, you’ll be able to watch it from the Mall at 10am and then the fly-past takes place at 1pm. UK viewers will be able to watch it live on BBC1.
Here is a video of the Trooping the Colour Parade from 1986:
Find out more and watch further videos at The British Monarchy website
