The royal family gathered in full force for King Charles’ official birthday celebration at Trooping the Colour on June 14. Members of the royal family, including King Charles, Queen Camilla, Prince William, Kate Middleton, and their three children, Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis, came together at Buckingham Palace to mark the occasion.
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Trooping the Colour is a significant event on the British royal family’s annual calendar, showcasing their historic ties to the armed forces. The parade featured King Charles travelling by carriage as he continues his treatment for cancer. Following the procession at Horse Guards Parade, the family gathered on the Buckingham Palace balcony to witness the Royal Air Force flypast, with Queen Camilla by King Charles’ side.
Among the attendees were King Charles’ siblings, Princess Anne and Prince Edward, along with their spouses. The King’s cousins, Prince Edward, the Duke of Kent, and Prince Richard, the Duke of Gloucester, also joined in the celebration. Despite the festivities, notable absentees included Prince Andrew, Prince Harry, and Meghan Markle, who are no longer full-time working royals.
Prince Andrew has not been seen at Trooping the Colour since 2019, amid controversy surrounding his ties to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. His absence reflects his official transition away from royal duties, as he was stripped of his military titles and patronages in 2022. Similarly, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have not participated in the parade since stepping back from their royal roles in 2020.
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex last attended Trooping the Colour in 2019, shortly after the birth of their son, Archie. While they returned for a special edition in 2022, they have not been invited back since. Their children, Archie and Lilibet, have yet to attend the event publicly. Prince Harry’s recent comments about his children missing out on experiences in the UK further highlight their distant relationship with royal events.
Trooping the Colour holds a special place in the royal family’s traditions, symbolising unity and celebration. While the event has witnessed changes in attendance over the years, it continues to serve as a momentous occasion for the monarch and their family members to come together in ceremonial splendour.