How to Watch King Charles III's Trooping the Colour Parade 2025

On Saturday, June 14, 2025, King Charles III will be celebrated with his official birthday parade, known as Trooping the Colour, held at Horse Guards Parade in London. The event marks the Sovereign’s official birthday, distinct from his actual birthday on November 14. This year, the celebration will feature a grand display of military precision, music, and the traditional RAF flypast, culminating in the royal family’s appearance on the iconic balcony of Buckingham Palace.

Coverage of the Trooping the Colour will commence at 10:30 AM (BST) on BBC One and BBC iPlayer, with Clare Balding serving as the host for the live broadcast. The event promises to be a spectacle of royal tradition, showcasing the Coldstream Guards as they troop their colour, a ceremonial display that dates back to the 17th century. Radzi Chinyanganya will be on-site to provide insights and interviews with participants of the day’s events.

According to an official statement from Buckingham Palace, the Trooping the Colour is not only a celebration of the Sovereign's birthday but also serves as a demonstration of the UK’s military heritage and pageantry.

The event will be accessible to a wide audience, with audio-described commentary available on Red Button and BBC iPlayer. Additionally, viewers can enjoy uninterrupted coverage of the live events through iPlayer, making it easier for those who wish to experience the full grandeur of the day.

Subsequent highlights of the parade will be aired on BBC Two and iPlayer starting at 7 PM, providing further opportunities for viewers to engage with this significant royal occasion.

The tradition of Trooping the Colour has evolved over centuries, with its origins tracing back to the 1748 when it was first celebrated in its current form. The event has become a focal point of the British royal calendar, symbolizing both the monarchy's enduring presence and the pageantry of British culture.

As anticipation builds for this year's celebration, experts suggest that it remains an essential aspect of national identity. Dr. Helen Lewis, a historian at the University of London, emphasizes the importance of such royal events in maintaining public interest in the monarchy, stating, “Trooping the Colour not only honors the King but also reinforces the historical connection between the British people and their monarchy.”

For those unable to attend in person, the BBC provides a comprehensive platform for viewing the festivities, ensuring that the majesty of the occasion is accessible to all across the nation and beyond. The Trooping the Colour serves as a reminder of the British monarchy’s relationship with its people and the ceremonial traditions that continue to thrive in modern Britain.