Trooping the Colour returned in full regalia on June 14 as the British royal family gathered in London to celebrate King Charles III’s official birthday. The grand annual military parade, a cornerstone of royal tradition, marked the monarch’s third Trooping the Colour since ascending the throne in 2022.
Under sunny skies, thousands of spectators lined the streets to catch a glimpse of the royal procession. Among the most anticipated appearances were Prince William and Princess Kate, who were joined by their children—Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis—for the iconic event.
A Family Affair on Parade
Prince William, 42, fulfilled his ceremonial role as Colonel of the Welsh Guards, riding on horseback alongside senior royals like Princess Anne and Prince Edward. Meanwhile, Princess Kate, 43, rode in a horse-drawn carriage with their children, dressed elegantly in an aquamarine Catherine Walker coatdress paired with a matching Juliette Botterill hatand Queen Elizabeth’s earrings—a subtle nod to the late monarch.
Princess Charlotte stood out with a special touch: a diamond horseshoe brooch, a keepsake gifted by Queen Elizabeth, previously worn at her state funeral in 2022. It was a sentimental detail that royal watchers immediately picked up on.
Prince George debuted a fresh new haircut, while Prince Louis, ever the crowd favorite, charmed fans with his energetic expressions and waves from the carriage.
The Buckingham Palace Balcony Moment
As tradition dictates, the day concluded with the entire royal family appearing on the Buckingham Palace balcony to witness the RAF flypast, a symbolic and stirring finale. King Charles and Queen Camilla took center stage, flanked by working royals including the Prince and Princess of Wales and their children.
Unlike last year, where the event was impacted by rain and required closed carriages, 2025’s Trooping the Colour enjoyed clear skies, allowing the royal family to enjoy a full ceremonial experience with the public.
King Charles Takes a Carriage
Due to his ongoing cancer treatment, King Charles opted for a carriage ride rather than horseback this year. Despite health concerns, the monarch maintained his royal duties with grace, riding alongside Queen Camilla and receiving a warm welcome from the crowd.
A Royal Success
This year’s Trooping the Colour was more than a ceremonial event—it was a display of unity, tradition, and royal continuity. From Princess Kate’s poised presence to Prince George and Princess Charlotte’s growing public confidence, the 2025 celebration gave royal fans worldwide plenty of moments to cherish.
As the Royal Family continues to balance tradition with modern expectations, Trooping the Colour remains a defining symbol of their enduring connection to the people and the crown.
