Trooping the Colour has been cancelled for 2020, Buckingham Palace announces.
“In line with Government advice, it has been agreed that The Queen’s Birthday Parade, also known as Trooping the Colour, will not go ahead in its traditional form.” a statement said.
Trooping the Colour 2019; The Queen is accompanied by other members of the Royal Family on the balcony at Buckingham Palace. Picture by Andrew Parsons / i-Images
However, the statement also added that ‘a number of other options are being considered,’ meaning that perhaps another way will be found to host a similar type of celebration for The Queen’s 94th birthday.
Trooping the Colour features around 200 horses and 1400 soldiers at Horse Guards Parade, while hundreds of members of the public watch in the stands. Thousands more line the Mall to watch the Royals arrive and depart in their carriages, as well as see the troops in their splendour. 400 musicians entertain with traditional military tunes.
This ceremony has marked the Monarch’s official birthday since 1748, and has occurred annually since 1820, with a few exceptions for bad weather.
Any other options to have the celebration would need to limit the number of people involved, and allow them to keep their distance, whilst also protecting various members of the Royal Family, who are considered high risk: The Queen, Prince Charles, and Camilla, as well as all the children who watch from the balcony. Prince Philip has not attended since 2018.
