Trooping of the Colour: What exactly is it and why do the royals celebrate it each year?

Name: Trooping of the Colour: What is it and why do the royals celebrate it? | Woman's Day
Uploaded: 2021-06-11T12:00:00
Description: In honour of this year's scaled back Trooping the Colour, we take a look back at the rich history of the event in all its amazing pomp, fanfare and glory.

In honour of this year's scaled back Trooping the Colour, we take a look back at the rich history of the event in all its amazing pomp, fanfare and glory.

Jun 11, 2021 12:00pm

By Chloe Lal

In honour of Queen Elizabeth's birthday, the annual tradition of the Trooping the Colour traditionally sees all our favourite royals out in action.

It's a time of high anticipation on any royal fan's calendar - from seeing the specially picked outfits of Duchess Catherine and Meghan, to seeing the youngest royals grace the balcony and get up to all kinds of mischief.

Of course, 2021's event has once again been scaled back in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic - but that won't stop us from basking in Trooping's rich history.

There's always something light-hearted happening on that balcony!

What is Trooping the Colour?

The special event gives avid royal watchers the chance to see the modern monarchy in their element - big hats, bright colours, royal waves and all!

The event is one of the most spectacular days in the royal calendar and dates all the way back to the 17th century.

Trooping the Colour is performed by regiments of the British and Commonwealth armies. In the past, it took place on battlefields and regiment's colours or flags were used as rallying points.

These days, Trooping the Colour is a celebratory parade in honour of the Queen's birthday - despite it actually being on April 21.

It is carried out by fully trained troops from the Household Division (Foot Guards and Household Cavalry) on Horse Guards Parade in Whitehall.

Traditionally, over 1,400 officers, 400 musicians and 200 horses attend the grand event. The Queen herself travels by carriage from Buckingham Palace to Horse Guards Parade across St. James's Park to inspect her troops, receive a royal salute and take a salute of her own.

The glorious event has been watched by generations of the Royal Family, invited guests and members of the public.

We take a look back at the royal family enjoying the Trooping the Colour in all its pomp, fanfare and glory.

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In 2018, the then 1-year-old Prince Louis managed to steal the entire show with his gorgeous frantic waving from the balcony - already a natural!

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Of course, the same year marked a very exciting appearance from Duchess Meghan, who had just given birth to her son, Archie.

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The Cambridges were a balcony highlight in 2017.

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While Catherine and Charlotte were princess perfection...

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Jr Cambridge Prince George had his family in giggles with his unimpressed demeanor.

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In 2016, Princess Charlotte got in on the timeless tradition as the newest balcony inductee.

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Cheeky as ever, the royal siblings stole the show.

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The pageantry and spectacle played out in front of millions across the globe.

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George is astounded by the RAF flypast.

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Prince Harry can relate to his young nephew's boredom.

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In 2016, our favourite Prince rocks his dad's outfit, from Prince Harry's christening.

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In 2015, gorgeous George made his balcony debut at the historical event!

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The royal cutie stole thousands of hearts when he gave this wave.

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In honour of Queen Elizabeth's birthday the annual tradition of the Trooping the Colour ceremony - we will see all our favourite royals enjoying the spectacular event.

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Hats off to Duchess Catherine, who always looks elegant at the celebrations.

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The royals all ride in carriages to the event.

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The big day is a celebration to each British monarch's official birthday, although Her Majesty's actual birth date is April 21.

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It is carried out by fully trained troops from the Household Division (Foot Guards and Household Cavalry) on Horse Guards Parade in Whitehall.

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It is expected that over 1,400 officers, 400 musicians and 200 horses in tow, the Queen is paraded in a carriage from Buckingham Palace to Horse Guards Parade across St. James's Park to inspect her troops, receive a royal salute and take a salute of her own.

(Getty)