The streets of London are alive with excitement this morning as one of Britain’s most treasured royal traditions returns — Trooping the Colour.
But this year’s event, which marks King Charles III’s official birthday, carries a deeper emotional weight, as the monarch has asked the Royal Family to wear black armbands to honour the victims of the recent Air India plane crash in Ahmedabad.
With history, ceremony, and a sense of national unity in the air, thousands are gathering to witness the spectacle unfold.
King Charles Marks His Third Trooping Ceremony Amid Health Battle
Despite undergoing regular treatment for cancer, King Charles is taking part in his third Trooping the Colour since becoming monarch.
However, unlike previous kings who might have ridden on horseback, Charles will instead travel in a carriage from Buckingham Palace to Horse Guards Parade.
Even though his mobility is limited, the King’s presence remains a central part of the celebration.
His message this week — acknowledging the tragic loss of 241 lives in the Air India crash — also added a note of solemn reflection to the festivities.
Prince William and Other Royals Saddle Up for the Procession
Prince William, Princess Anne, and Prince Edward are set to ride on horseback, bringing a traditional and majestic flair to the royal procession.
William, Colonel of the Welsh Guards, will take a lead role alongside Anne, who serves as Colonel of the Blues and Royals.
They’ll accompany King Charles to the iconic parade ground, a tradition dating back centuries that blends military precision with royal spectacle.
Coldstream Guards Step Into the Spotlight
This year, the honour of Trooping their Colour goes to Number Seven Company of the Coldstream Guards — and it’s a first for the regiment under King Charles’ reign.
The moment is especially significant as His Majesty presented new Colours to the Coldstream Guards just yesterday, commemorating their 375th anniversary.
The troop’s participation is set to be a proud moment, both for the soldiers and for the royal family.
Early Morning Buzz on The Mall
Crowds began lining The Mall in the early hours, waving Union flags and soaking in the festive atmosphere.
Among them, a group proudly displayed cardboard cutouts of King Charles and the Princess of Wales, showing just how deeply the British public embraces these moments of national pride.
The streets are decked out in red, white, and blue as fans await the traditional carriage procession and the grand finale — the Royal Family’s balcony appearance.
A Tradition Steeped in Centuries of Pageantry
Trooping the Colour isn’t just a show — it’s a ritual that’s marked the monarch’s official birthday for more than 260 years.
What began in 1748 became an annual tradition under King George III in 1760.
Every year, over 1,400 soldiers, 200 horses, and 400 musicians deliver an extraordinary display of coordination and military pride.
The pageantry, the uniforms, and the historical setting remind everyone of the long-standing traditions that tie the monarchy to British national identity.
RAF Flypast and the Famous Balcony Moment Still to Come
Following the grand procession and parade, eyes will turn to the skies for the much-loved RAF flypast.
The Royal Family will gather on the Buckingham Palace balcony to wave to the crowds as aircraft soar overhead — an image that’s become symbolic of national unity and celebration.
Today’s flypast will carry extra meaning as it serves not only to celebrate the King but also to offer a moment of silence and remembrance for the victims of the Air India tragedy.
Royals to Wear Black Armbands for Air India Crash Victims
In a moving gesture, King Charles has requested all participating royals wear black armbands during the ceremony to honour those who lost their lives in Thursday’s plane crash in Ahmedabad.
The King expressed his “deepest possible sympathy” and called for a moment of silence to remember the 241 people who perished.
The decision adds a layer of somber dignity to what is otherwise a joyous national celebration.
Coverage Begins as Crowds Fill London’s Historic Parade Ground
The BBC began its live coverage from 10:30am, but the formation of troops started as early as 9:15am.
Spectators, some camping out to secure a spot, have come from all over to witness this uniquely British occasion.
As always, Trooping the Colour offers a snapshot of both history and modern monarchy — a moment where tradition meets the present day, and the Royal Family steps out not just in ceremonial splendour, but also with heart.