The annual Trooping the Colour ceremony on Saturday, June 14, 2025. This particular event coincided with the official birthday celebrations of King Charles III. This remarkable undertaking began in the 17th century. What it has become instead is one of the joyful, colorful celebrations—more like a carnival really—that now occurs annually ever since the time of King George III in the 18th century. The ceremony combines an exciting military spectacle with majestic pageantry and a reminder of the service and sacrifice that protects national values. This year, the Coldstream Guards provided a dazzling performance that thrilled the crowd.
King Charles III reviewing the parade. He carried out the whole rehearsal in the Coldstream Guards Tunic and Forage Cap – the Dress Uniform of the Regiment Trooping the Colour. He donned the ceremonial green jacket uniform that proudly displayed the cypher of his late mother, Queen Elizabeth II. In this position, he acted as her Personal Aide-de-Camp. This year, the royal family really knocked it out of the park—pun intended. Among these, the Princess of Wales shone most brightly as she dutifully carried out her role as Gold Stick-in-Waiting.
The ceremony opened with a moment of reflection. Members present at the gathering observed a moment of silence to pay tribute to the lives lost in last week’s Air India plane crash in southern India. A spokesperson for Buckingham Palace stated, “as a mark of respect for the lives lost, the families in mourning and all the communities affected by this awful tragedy.” This tribute was felt across the event, emphasizing a strong feeling of national solidarity and commemoration.
The Princess of Wales dazzled as she arrived in an open top, elegant Ascot Landau carriage. She was joined by her three little ones, Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis. She wore a solid aquamarine wool coatdress by Catherine Walker, with ivory matching lapels and cuffs. Princess Charlotte matched her mother’s ensemble in a delightful aqua dress, showcasing their close bond and shared sense of style.
The new King Charles III and Queen Camilla accompanied the procession, walking side by side. They lived under the watchful eye of royal family members in gold embellished carriages. To that end, this year, King Charles went off-script. Rather than travel on horseback, he decided to make the trip in a carriage with his wife. The new Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh arriving at Buckingham Palace by car. Their arrival increased the royal presence at this prestigious occasion.
As part of the parade, senior officers and participants donned black armbands to further commemorate the victims of the Air India tragedy. The Coldstream Guards performed their ceremonial duties with precision and pride, emphasizing the military’s role in upholding traditions while acknowledging contemporary events that have impacted society.
Prince William very proudly represented his regiment, donning the Full Ceremonial Guard Order of the Welsh Guards. This uniform represents his deep, steadfast commitment to duty and service under the royal crown. The parade concluded in impressive fashion with more thrilling performances and exhibitions. These events were a reminder of the huge history and great vibrant pageantry that is Trooping the Colour.
