International Travel — U.K.
London, England
London Attractions
Trooping the Colour
Saturday, June 15, 2013
— Queen's Birthday Parade
— Horse Guards Parade

Royal Air Force Fly-Past
Where to See Tropping the Colour

Annual Trooping of the Colour
— Biggest Royal Event of the Year
Trooping the Colour, also known as the Queen's Birthday Parade, is the biggest Royal event of the year.

The ceremony (military parade and march-past) takes place every June on the Queen's "official birthday." Although The Queen's birthday is actually April 21, the official celebration is held in June because the weather in London is typically better at that time.

The Trooping the Colour ceremony dates back to the early 18th century — before battle, the Colours (or flags) of the battalion were carried (or trooped) slowly down the ranks of soldiers so that they could be familiar with their battalion's flag.

The Queen carries out an inspection of the troops at Horse Guards Parade in Whitehall and then receives the royal salute. Following the ceremony, the Queen leads the troops down the Mall to Buckingham Palace where she gives the royal salute.

RAF Fly-Past
After the event, the Queen joins other members of the Royal Family on the balcony at Buckingham Palace for a fly-past (fly-over) by the Royal Air Force at 1pm.

The parade is also broadcast live on the BBC in the UK, so if you can't be there in person, watch it on TV.

Trooping the Colour is usually followed by the Changing of the Guard.

Where to See
Trooping the Colour
Trooping the Colour can be seen from Horse Guards Parade, St. Jame's Park and along the Mall to Buckingham Palace, beginning around 11am. The event is free to the public. Arrive early for the best views — and expect crowds.

More Info
Trooping the Colour

Official Royal Web Site
British Monarchy Web Site
(020)-7766-7300

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