What is Trooping the Colour?

In the past, the Queen used to participate on horseback. But with the growing age, she prefers to ride a carriage now. On the day, royalty travels in procession through the horse-drawn carriage of Buckingham Palace, along the Mall to the Horse Guards Parade, Whitehall and vice versa. After the military bands presented themselves, the regimental color, or flag, escorted is processed by the ranks of soldiers. More than one hundred words of command are used by the officer in charge of the parade to direct the several hundred soldiers.

Once the foot Guards pass through the Queen, she returns to Buckingham Palace in front of the soldiers, before making the salute to greet crowds and watch the RAF's spectacular flight.

This year's Trooping the Colour ceremony is a little special, since it is the first time of the Duchess of Sussex and her first appearance on the balcony of Buckingham Palace.

The Queen's extended family also appears on the veranda along with her closest relatives. It is truly a great celebration event for the monarch along with the country and the family.

In the photo, Princess Elizabeth represented the king at the Trooping of the Colour ceremony in London on June 7, 1951.