King Charles will celebrate his official birthday during the annual parade, Trooping the Colour, which this year takes place on Saturday 13 June.
But given that the monarch's birthday actually falls on 14 November, some people may wonder why the monarch marks his birthday twice?
It's all down to a tradition which dates way back to the 18th century, with the monarch having an official birthday (Trooping the Colour) and an unofficial birthday (in Charles' case – 14 November).
Official celebrations to mark the sovereigns' birthdays have often been held on a day other than their actual birthday, particularly when the day has not fallen on a day in the summer.
© Getty ImagesKing Edward VII was born on 9 November, but his official birthday was marked throughout his reign in May or June when there was a greater likelihood of good weather for the birthday parade, also known as Trooping the Colour.
Similarly, the late Queen Elizabeth II's birthday was 21 April, but she always celebrated it officially on a Saturday in June.
Trooping the Colour
© Getty ImagesFor more than 260 years, Trooping the Colour has served as the official birthday celebration for the reigning British monarch. The spectacular showcase of musical and military precision features upwards of 1,400 soldiers, 400 musicians, and 200 horses. The processional route stretches from Buckingham Palace down The Mall to Horse Guards Parade, culminating with an impressive Royal Air Force flypast.
The day's events begin with the Royal Family travelling by horse-drawn carriage along The Mall to Whitehall. Upon arriving at Horse Guards Parade, the King is greeted with a royal salute before inspecting his troops. The massed bands perform a musical troop as the regimental flag, known as the colour, is escorted down the ranks. Following the display, the monarch leads his Guards back to Buckingham Palace.
© GettyThe celebration always concludes with the Royal Family gathering on the Buckingham Palace balcony to wave to the gathered crowds and watch the overhead RAF aircraft display. This balcony appearance is highly anticipated by royal fans, as it offers a first glimpse of the family's youngest members, who are still too young to join the morning's carriage procession.
In recent years, Prince Louis has stolen the show by putting on very animated displays, namely in 2019 when he made his adorable debut. The event is traditionally scheduled for the second Saturday of June; this year's parade takes place on June 13.
