With the Platinum Jubilee fast approaching, the eyes of the world will be turning to London to watch the celebrations. Each of The Queen’s Jubilees have looked different, but there are a few events that stay constant throughout the years. We typically see a Service of Thanksgiving at notable royal events and will at the Platinum Jubilee. However, we will see an annual event happening this year- Trooping the Colour! It’s a bit of an odd name, and a lot of people are left wondering what exactly it is. So, ahead of the big day: what is Trooping the Colour and what is the history of it?
What is Trooping the Colour?
Trooping the Colour (also known as “Trooping of the Colour”) is a historic ceremony that dates back to the eighteenth ceremony where different regiments will present their colours to the sovereign. Their colours or their flag are meant to embody the spirit of the regiment and were a rallying cry/sight for soldiers.
The Queen travels down the Mall in a state carriage (she rode on horseback until 1987), and then inspects the troops of the Household Division. She and the rest of the Royal Family then gather on the balcony of Buckingham Palace to watch a flyover.
What is the history of Trooping the Colour?
Trooping the Colour is the official celebration of the British sovereign’s birthday. Historically it is held on the second Saturday of June, though is shifting to the first Thursday of June for the Platinum Jubilee. (June was partially chosen for weather- you have a much better chance of nicer weather.)
The first recorded Trooping was under King Charles II, but King George II in 1748 decided that a Trooping ceremony would mark his official birthday, and King George III made it an annual event. The celebration has continued on thus, no matter when the sovereign’s birthday actually is.
What Will You See?
You will see a few iconic things that are tied to the British Royal Family’s public image. Firstly, you will see the BRF on the balcony at Buck House- you normally see the extended royal family with the Gloucester and Kent branches attending. You will also see the Household Division parading in their ceremonial uniforms, as well as the RAF flyover. It is an important and traditional event in the royal calendar, and well worth watching!
Have you seen Trooping the Colour?
Cheers,
The Historian
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