As the royal family prepares for the grand Trooping the Colour parade on Saturday, 14 June, many may wonder why King Charles celebrates his birthday twice each year.
While the King’s actual birthday falls on 14 November, his official birthday is marked during the summer — a long-standing royal tradition designed to take advantage of better weather for public festivities.
The custom dates back to the reign of King Edward VII, who was born in November but chose to hold his official birthday in May or June to ensure more favourable conditions for a military parade. The practice continued with Queen Elizabeth II, whose real birthday was on 21 April, while her official celebrations were held in June.
This dual birthday tradition blends pageantry with practicality, allowing the monarchy to honour the sovereign’s birthday with full ceremonial splendour during a time of year more suitable for public celebrations.
What is Trooping the Colour?
Trooping the Colour is a centuries-old military ceremony performed by regiments of the British Army. It marks the sovereign’s official birthday and includes a grand display of precision marching, military bands, and the presence of senior members of the royal family.
