Trooping the Colour, the annual military parade celebrating the British monarch's official birthday, returns on Saturday, June 13, 2026. King Charles and Queen Camilla will lead the procession from Buckingham Palace to Horse Guards Parade and back, with the Grenadier Guards trooping the colour. The event features around 1,600 soldiers, 400 musicians, and over 200 horses, alongside a spectacular RAF flypast at 1pm.
What is Trooping the Colour?
Trooping the Colour marks the official birthday of the British monarch. Though King Charles was born on November 14, the event is held in June to maximize the chance of good weather. The tradition began under King George III in 1760, but its origins date back to King Charles II's reign. It also coincides with the publication of the Birthday Honours List.
What Happens at the Parade?
The ceremony starts at Horse Guards Parade at 11am. The King inspects his troops after a Royal Salute and a 41-gun salute from The King's Troop Royal Horse Artillery. Members of the Royal Family arrive on horseback or in carriages. The Prince of Wales, Duke of Edinburgh, and Princess Royal typically ride, while the Princess of Wales travels with Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis. After the parade, the King leads the family onto the Buckingham Palace balcony for the RAF flypast.
Timetable for the Day
- 09:15am: Troops assemble on Horse Guards Parade.
- 10:45am: The King and Royal Family leave Buckingham Palace.
- 11:00am: The King arrives, takes the Royal Salute, and reviews the troops.
- 12:20pm: The King returns to Buckingham Palace.
- 12:52pm: A 41-gun salute is fired in The Green Park.
- 12:55pm: The Royal Family appears on the balcony.
- 1:00pm: RAF Flypast.
How to Watch
Thousands gather on The Mall or near St James's Park to watch in person. The event is broadcast live on the BBC. Grandstand tickets are sold out via ballot.
Expected Royal Attendees
- King Charles and Queen Camilla
- The Prince and Princess of Wales, with Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis
- The Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh
- Princess Anne and Vice Admiral Sir Timothy Laurence
- The Duke and Duchess of Gloucester
- The Duke of Kent
