How to watch Trooping the Colour 2023
2023’s event marks the first Trooping the Colour for King Charles.
Trooping the Colour is an annual event of pomp and pageantry that has celebrated the birthday of the sovereign since the 18th century.
This year’s event will mark the first of King Charles III’s reign since he became monarch in September 2022.
What's more, Buckingham Palace has announced King Charles will join his first birthday parade on horseback, marking the first time the reigning monarch has ridden in the parade in 30 years.
So, without further ado, read on for everything you need to know about how to watch Trooping the Colour 2023.
How to watch Trooping the Colour 2023
Live coverage of the King’s Birthday Parade will start at 10.30am on Saturday, 17th June on BBC One and BBC iPlayer.
The parade itself will last for two hours, while the whole celebration will last for around four hours.
Highlights of the day’s events will then be broadcast on BBC Two and BBC iPlayer from 6.10pm.
What is the schedule for Trooping the Colour and what time does it begin?
The royal family will officially kick off the celebrations in a procession from Buckingham Palace to the Horse Guards. See below for an estimated order of events for the day:
- 10am - Royal family to begin celebrations in a procession from Buckingham Palace towards Horse Guards
- 10:30am - The Horse Guard Parade
- 12:25 - Royal family to head back to Buckingham Palace
- 12:55pm - Royal family to assemble on the balcony of Buckingham Palace
- 1:00pm - Royal flypast rescheduled from the Coronation celebrations
Does Trooping the Colour take place on the King’s actual birthday?
No, King Charles III’s actual birthday is 14th November - he was born on 14th November 1948.
However, Trooping the Colour is his official public birthday celebration, which dates back to the 18th century.
Since then, monarchs have had the option of an official summertime birthday.
Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II’s official birthday was marked by a celebration in June, despite her actual birthday falling on 21st April.
Live coverage of Trooping the Colour - The King's Birthday Parade begins at 10am on Saturday, 17th June on BBC One and BBC iPlayer. If you’re looking for more to watch, check out our TV guide.
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Authors
Molly Moss is a Trends Writer for Radio Times, covering the latest trends across TV, film and more. She has an MA in Newspaper Journalism and has previously written for publications including The Guardian, The Times and The Sun Online.
