Catherine, Princess of Wales, commonly known as Kate, is set to participate in the Trooping the Colour celebration on Saturday, which marks the King's official birthday parade. This appearance will be her first public outing since revealing her cancer diagnosis.
The Princess of Wales will observe the parade alongside her family and is expected to join other members of the royal family on the balcony. This event signifies a significant milestone in her recovery journey, as it will be her first public appearance since Christmas Day, which was before her cancer diagnosis was disclosed.
In a recent update on her health, Kate mentioned that she has been making good progress in her recovery. However, she acknowledged that her treatment is ongoing and anticipates it will continue for several more months, emphasizing that she is not yet completely in the clear.
King Charles III, who is also undergoing cancer treatment, will be participating in the Trooping the Colour event. This grand military spectacle involves 1,400 officers, 400 musicians, and 200 horses parading through the streets of London from Buckingham Palace to Horse Guard’s Parade, drawing crowds along the route.
Trooping the Colour has been a longstanding tradition, dating back over 260 years, to commemorate the official birthday of the British sovereign. While Charles's actual birthday falls in November, the tradition of celebrating the monarch's official birthday with a public event originated in the 18th century.
Following the parade, the royal family traditionally gathers on the palace balcony to acknowledge the cheering well-wishers below. Notably, King Charles will be participating in a carriage this year, a change from his previous horseback procession, due to his ongoing cancer treatment.
Despite his health challenges, doctors have been pleased with King Charles's progress, allowing him to resume public engagements. For the upcoming celebration, he will review the troops from an Ascot landau carriage alongside Queen Camilla.
Additionally, three of the British Army's horses that caused a stir in London in April have returned to duty and are expected to participate in the birthday parade. The remaining two horses are currently enjoying a break in the Chilterns and will rejoin service in due course.