A former royal butler has suggested that when Prince William ascends to the throne, the longstanding tradition of the monarch having two birthdays may be reconsidered. The custom, which dates back to the 18th century, involves celebrating the actual birthday privately and an official birthday with the Trooping the Colour parade. King Charles III's actual birthday is on November 14, but his official celebration takes place in June to ensure better weather.
Historical Background
The two-birthday system was standardised by Edward VII, who reigned from 1901 to 1910. Born in November like King Charles, Edward VII moved the official celebration to summer to avoid poor weather. The Trooping the Colour event features military pageantry, a carriage procession, and a Royal Air Force flypast.
William's Birthday in June
Prince William was born on June 21. Grant Harrold, a former butler to King Charles III, told Heart Bingo Online: “There is no guarantee that Prince William will scrap the two-birthday tradition when he eventually becomes King, but some royal watchers have speculated that he could choose to review it. Because his birthday falls on the 21st of June, there would be less practical need for a separate official birthday, as the date already coincides with the time of year traditionally used for royal celebrations.”
Harrold added that the official birthday is a public celebration marked by Trooping the Colour, while the actual birthday is usually a private affair with family and close friends.
On Saturday, the Royal Family appeared on the balcony of Buckingham Palace for Trooping the Colour, including Prince William, Catherine, Princess of Wales, and their children Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis. An RAF flypast featuring the Red Arrows also took place.
