Trooping the Colour, the King's official birthday parade, takes place later today, culminating in a Buckingham Palace balcony appearance reserved for working royals only. This means Prince Harry and Meghan, who stepped back from royal duties in 2020, will not join the festivities.
Harry's Absence Expected
Former BBC royal correspondent Jennie Bond told the Mirror that Harry will likely skip the event, despite his past enjoyment of participating in military uniform. She noted the King is right to keep the balcony focused on working royals, as they are funded by taxpayers to perform public duties.
Changes to the Tradition
The ceremony, dating back over 260 years, involves 1,400 soldiers, 200 horses, and 400 musicians. The royals travel from Buckingham Palace to Horse Guards Parade for the military display, then return for the RAF flypast, including the Red Arrows.
Family Tensions
Harry and Meghan last attended Trooping in 2022 for the late Queen's Platinum Jubilee but did not appear on the balcony. Their relationship with the royal family has been strained since their Netflix documentary and Harry's memoir, Spare. Despite Harry's recent talk of reconciliation, he is not expected to watch the parade from California.
A Show of Unity
This year's event follows a period of instability, including Prince Andrew's arrest. Bond believes the royals hope to demonstrate continuity and stability, despite ongoing scandals. She added that a quieter summer is unlikely, with Harry's Invictus Games publicity and Andrew's legal issues looming.
