London celebrates the King’s official birthday with an impressive military parade every June known as Trooping the Colour, which has been taking place since 1820.
The 2026 Trooping the Colour programme took place in June. The Household Division listed the Major General’s Review on 30 May 2026, the Colonel’s Review on 6 June 2026 and the King’s Birthday Parade (Trooping the Colour) on 13 June 2026, all at Horse Guards Parade. The official 2027 dates should be checked when published.
This event is usually attended by diplomatic representatives from different countries as well as thousands of people, and during this ceremony, the King pays tribute to British citizens who deserve to be recognised for some reason.
Numerous grandstands with chairs are set up at the Horse Guards Parade, but these tickets are unfortunately not easy to get, and are sold out several months before the event. Seeing the parade from “The Mall” avenue, which is usually decorated with hundreds of flags for this event several weeks before, is completely free, but you must arrive early to get a good place!
Rehearsals
It’s good to know that rehearsal takes place for this important event, and these are not usually as crowded, making it a great option to watch the King’s birthday parade, even if the King isn’t around on those days. The official programme also includes separate rehearsal parades at Horse Guards Parade; check dates on the Household Division website each year.
In 2026, the Major General’s Review took place on 30 May and the Colonel’s Review on 6 June. Future dates should be checked with the organisers. It is possible to buy tickets for these events through the official website here.
Information about the Trooping The Colour in London
When: The 2026 King’s Birthday Parade took place on 13 June. Check the Household Division for the next confirmed date and start time.
Where: Horse Guards Parade – Buckingham Palace
Official website: Trooping the Colour
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