King Charles has not long since celebrated his 74th birthday in November, but with his Coronation looming next month, many people are asking whether he will follow in his mother’s footsteps and celebrate two birthdays.
The late Queen famously celebrated her actual birthday on April 21 and marked her “official” birthday at Trooping the Colour in June. However, the two-birthday tradition wasn’t unique to Her Majesty.
In the 1740s, King George II began the tradition of celebrating his birthday twice when he marked his “official” birthday at the military parade. His actual birthday was in October but the June weather was much more desirable.
Trooping the Colour is the official birthday parade of the Monarch and takes place each year. The Palace has confirmed that King Charles will celebrate his birthday twice.
Read more: Prince Harry returns to UK, as he makes High Court appearance over ‘information misuse’ case
When is King Charles III’s actual birthday?
King Charles III was born on November 14 1948. This is when the monarch celebrates his actual birthday.
When will King Charles III’s official birthday be?
Trooping the Colour is held in June each year and will be used to mark King Charles III’s birthday. This year, the day will be marked on June 17 in central London.
What happens at Trooping the Colour?
One of the biggest military parades of the British calendar, Trooping the Colour sees more than 1,400 parading soldiers, 200 horses and 400 musicians come together. The parade travels from Buckingham Palace down The Mall to Horse Guard’s Parade.
Members of the Royal Family, including the King, Queen and Prince and Princess of Wales, will follow by horseback and in carriages. The celebration concludes with a spectacular fly-past from the RAF, watched by members of the Royal Family from the Buckingham Palace balcony.
How to watch Trooping the Colour
Many Royal fans choose to visit the capital themselves to see the parade in person, with thousands of people lining the streets to catch a glimpse of the spectacular display. For those who prefer to stay out of London, Trooping the Colour is usually televised by the BBC with coverage lasting a couple of hours.
Read next:
Princess Anne visits Coronation Street over ITV soap's harrowing new acid attack storyline
King Charles shares Mother's Day photo of the late Queen with poignant message
George, Charlotte and Louis set to play important role in King Charles' Coronation
King Charles' coronation to be shown on big screens across the North East
