This Saturday June 15th, 2013 is the annual
Trooping of the Colour in London. I bet you are wondering what exactly this
Trooping thing is. Well, every year on a
Saturday in June London celebrates the official birthday of the Sovereign. Although
the actual birthday of Queen Elizabeth II is April 21st - a day in
the summer has been set aside to celebrate the Monarch’s birthday in
the hopes of better weather. Also known as the Queen’s Birthday Parade the
Trooping is a fabulous passing of marching troops and military bands in all of
their glory. This is a military ceremony dating back to the 18th
century where the colours (flags) were carried (trooped) so that a particular
division could be recognized.
The public can stand along the Mall to watch the procession
of troops while the majority of marching and performances take place inside
Horse Guards Parade in a grand stand area.
Interesting facts:
- Since Edward VII the Sovereign has taken the salute in person
- Queen Elizabeth II has attended every trooping except for 1955 when a rail strike cancelled the event
- Queen Elizabeth II rode a mounted horse during the trooping until 1987 – she now goes by carriage
- In 1981 on horseback the Queen’s horse was startled by someone firing a gun with blanks at her during the ceremony
The last time I was in London I happened to catch the Colonel’s
Review – which is the dress rehearsal for the actual trooping ceremony. This happens
one week before the actual Trooping of the Colour. I stood along the Mall as
the participants marched down to Horse Guards Parade. Here are some of my
pictures!
Happy Birthday Your Majesty!
Royal Alert! That's Prince Philip!
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