King Charles III marked another milestone in his reign as he presided over the 2025 Trooping the Colour ceremony, an event that continues to shape his legacy and showcase the unity—and occasional drama—of the British royal family. This year’s parade, held on Saturday, June 14, 2025, was steeped in both tradition and contemporary significance. King Charles, alongside Queen Camilla, led the annual military parade, with senior royals and the younger generation—including Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis—adding warmth and charm to the occasion.
The event was particularly poignant as King Charles and other senior royals wore black armbands in tribute to the victims of a recent Air India plane crash, blending solemn remembrance with the usual pageantry. Despite ongoing cancer treatment, King Charles participated fully, though he broke with tradition by riding in a carriage rather than on horseback. This year’s Trooping the Colour was his third as monarch and highlighted both continuity and change within the royal household.
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King Charles and the Modern Monarchy
King Charles’s approach to monarchy has been defined by a desire to modernize while respecting tradition. The 2025 Trooping the Colour reflected this balance. The event, which officially celebrates the monarch’s birthday (regardless of the actual date), is a centuries-old tradition dating back to 1748 and cemented as an annual event in 1760. Over 1,400 soldiers, 200 horses, and 400 musicians converge in London for a display of military precision and royal splendor.
This year, the Number 9 Company, Irish Guards, was chosen to troop their colour, a significant honour. The procession began at Buckingham Palace, moved down The Mall to Horse Guards Parade, and returned, with King Charles inspecting the troops and saluting from his carriage. The event culminated in the iconic balcony appearance, where the royal family watched the Royal Air Force flypast—a moment eagerly anticipated by royal fans and photographers alike.
King Charles’s decision to ride in a carriage, rather than on horseback, was notable. Traditionally, the monarch rides on horseback, a practice revived by King Charles in 2023 after years of absence. However, his ongoing cancer treatment, diagnosed in February 2024, has necessitated a more subdued role. Royal aides have noted that the King is managing his illness well, and observers remarked that he appeared in good spirits throughout the event.
Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis: The Next Generation Steals the Show
The presence of Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis at Trooping the Colour 2025 was a highlight for royal watchers. The children of the Prince and Princess of Wales brought energy, poise, and a touch of humor to the proceedings. Prince George, now 11, demonstrated remarkable composure, offering a respectful salute from the carriage and embodying the dignity expected of a future king.
Princess Charlotte, 10, impressed with her confident royal wave and impeccable manners. She was seen exchanging quiet words and sweet glances with her younger brother, Prince Louis, who, at 7 years old, once again stole the spotlight. Louis’s infectious enthusiasm and expressive reactions—from cheeky grins to animated gestures—delighted the crowds and provided some of the event’s most memorable moments.
The royal children’s appearances are a reminder of the monarchy’s enduring appeal and the importance of family in royal traditions. Their participation also underscores King Charles’s commitment to a “slimmed-down” monarchy, with the balcony appearance focused on senior working royals and their immediate families. In previous years, the balcony was crowded with extended family, but under King Charles, the gatherings have become more intimate, emphasizing continuity and connection.
Trooping the Colour: Tradition, Change, and the Royal Rift
Trooping the Colour is not just a military spectacle; it is also a family celebration. The event offers a rare glimpse into the dynamics of the royal household, both the unity and the tensions. This year, the absence of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle was notable. For the third consecutive year, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex were not invited to Trooping the Colour, reflecting the ongoing rift within the royal family.
Prince Harry has publicly expressed a desire for reconciliation, but sources indicate that trust remains a significant barrier. King Charles is reportedly cautious about re-establishing communication, while Prince William is firmly opposed to mending ties. Palace insiders suggest that the damage may be irreparable, with no staff advocating for reconciliation and confidence in private discussions with Harry and Meghan at an all-time low.
Despite these challenges, Trooping the Colour remains a symbol of national pride and royal continuity. The event’s traditions—from the slow march of the regiments to the display of military colours—are a reminder of Britain’s rich history and the monarchy’s role in uniting the nation.
The Significance of Trooping the Colour for King Charles
For King Charles, Trooping the Colour is more than a ceremonial duty; it is a platform to demonstrate leadership, resilience, and connection with the public. His decision to participate fully, despite health challenges, sends a powerful message about dedication and service. The presence of Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis underscores the importance of the younger generation in shaping the monarchy’s future.
The event also serves as a barometer for public sentiment. The warm reception for the royal children and the visible support for King Charles suggest that the monarchy remains a cherished institution. At the same time, the absence of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle highlights the complexities of royal life and the challenges of balancing tradition with modern expectations.
Trooping the Colour 2025 was a blend of solemnity, celebration, and continuity. King Charles’s leadership, the charm of Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis, and the enduring traditions of the event combined to create a memorable spectacle. As the royal family looks ahead, the lessons of this year’s parade—unity, resilience, and the importance of family—will continue to shape its path.
Engaging the Next Generation of Royal Fans
The participation of Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis at Trooping the Colour is not just about tradition; it is also about engaging the next generation of royal supporters. Their natural charm and relatability help to humanize the monarchy and foster a sense of connection with the public. The children’s playful interactions and genuine reactions are a reminder that, despite the grandeur of the occasion, the royal family is, at heart, a family like any other.
Royal watchers and the media eagerly anticipate the children’s appearances, which often become the most shared moments on social media. Prince Louis, in particular, has become a fan favorite for his unfiltered expressions and boundless energy. Princess Charlotte’s poise and Prince George’s sense of duty hint at the qualities that will define the monarchy in years to come.
King Charles’s decision to include the younger generation in such a prominent event is a strategic one. It ensures that the public remains invested in the future of the monarchy and helps to build a bridge between tradition and modernity.
The Road Ahead for King Charles and the Royal Family
As King Charles continues his reign, the challenges of balancing tradition, personal health, and family dynamics remain. Trooping the Colour 2025 was a testament to his resilience and commitment to public service. The event also highlighted the importance of the younger royals—Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis—in maintaining the monarchy’s relevance and appeal.
Looking ahead, the royal family will need to navigate the complexities of modern life while preserving the traditions that have defined it for centuries. The ongoing rift with Prince Harry and Meghan Markle is a reminder that even the most storied institutions are not immune to personal challenges and public scrutiny.
For now, the focus remains on unity, service, and the promise of a new generation. King Charles’s leadership, the charm of the royal children, and the enduring spectacle of Trooping the Colour ensure that the monarchy remains a vibrant and vital part of British life.
If you enjoyed this inside look at King Charles and the royal family’s latest Trooping the Colour, share your favorite moments and join the conversation about the future of the monarchy.