King Charles skips major event and breaks royal tradition
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For centuries, the British royal family has been the picture of tradition—especially when it comes to their grand public events.
But in a move that’s left royal watchers around the world both surprised and sympathetic, King Charles III is set to break with one of the monarchy’s most cherished customs at the 2025 Trooping the Colour parade.
Suppose you’re a fan of royal pageantry, you’ll know that Trooping the Colour is the annual celebration of the sovereign’s official birthday.
It’s a dazzling spectacle, with soldiers in their finest uniforms, horses prancing, and the royal family waving from the balcony of Buckingham Palace.
Traditionally, the reigning monarch leads the parade on horseback—a symbol of strength, continuity, and connection to the armed forces.
But this year, things will look a little different. King Charles, now 76 and bravely facing a cancer diagnosis, will not be riding on horseback for the 2025 event.
Instead, he’ll travel in a horse-drawn carriage, accompanied by Queen Camilla.
This decision, reported by The Times, marks a significant departure from the norm and is a poignant reminder of the challenges even the most privileged among us can face.
While some may see this as a break from tradition, it’s worth noting that it’s not entirely unprecedented.
Queen Elizabeth II, Charles’ mother, last rode on horseback for Trooping the Colour in 1986, after which she too opted for the comfort of a carriage.
Charles himself revived the horseback tradition in 2023, his first Trooping the Colour as King, but his health has understandably taken priority since his diagnosis.
In 2024, just months after revealing his illness, Charles rode in a carriage with Queen Camilla.
Now, it appears that the days of the monarch on horseback may be over for the foreseeable future.
It’s a practical and dignified adjustment and one that’s been met with understanding from both the public and royal commentators.
The Royal Family’s Changing Face. Of course, Trooping the Colour is about more than just the King.
It’s a family affair, and this year, the spotlight will also shine on Prince William, Princess Catherine (Kate), and their three children—Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis.
The young royals have become crowd favourites, and their presence is sure to delight fans and photographers alike.
However, not all family members will be in attendance. Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, who have been living in the United States since 2020, will not be participating in the 2025 celebrations.
The ongoing rift between the Sussexes and the rest of the royal family has been well documented, and their absence is likely to be noted by royal watchers.
The monarchy has always been about striking a balance between tradition and the realities of the present.
King Charles’ decision to forgo horseback riding is a reminder that even the most time-honoured customs can—and sometimes must—evolve.
It’s also a testament to the King’s resilience and commitment to his role, even in the face of personal health challenges.
For many Australians, the royal family remains a source of fascination and affection.
Whether you’re a staunch monarchist or just enjoy the spectacle, there’s no denying that these events are woven into the fabric of our shared history.
Do you think it’s time for the royals to modernise more of their traditions? Or do you prefer the old ways? Have you ever watched Trooping the Colour, either in person or on TV? Share your memories and opinions in the comments below.
Read more: King Charles sparks wild speculation with mysterious social media teaser
But in a move that’s left royal watchers around the world both surprised and sympathetic, King Charles III is set to break with one of the monarchy’s most cherished customs at the 2025 Trooping the Colour parade.
Suppose you’re a fan of royal pageantry, you’ll know that Trooping the Colour is the annual celebration of the sovereign’s official birthday.
It’s a dazzling spectacle, with soldiers in their finest uniforms, horses prancing, and the royal family waving from the balcony of Buckingham Palace.
Traditionally, the reigning monarch leads the parade on horseback—a symbol of strength, continuity, and connection to the armed forces.
King Charles III will be seen in a horse-drawn carriage instead of on horseback during the 2025 Trooping the Colour parade due to his cancer battle. Credit: Facebook
But this year, things will look a little different. King Charles, now 76 and bravely facing a cancer diagnosis, will not be riding on horseback for the 2025 event.
Instead, he’ll travel in a horse-drawn carriage, accompanied by Queen Camilla.
This decision, reported by The Times, marks a significant departure from the norm and is a poignant reminder of the challenges even the most privileged among us can face.
While some may see this as a break from tradition, it’s worth noting that it’s not entirely unprecedented.
Queen Elizabeth II, Charles’ mother, last rode on horseback for Trooping the Colour in 1986, after which she too opted for the comfort of a carriage.
Charles himself revived the horseback tradition in 2023, his first Trooping the Colour as King, but his health has understandably taken priority since his diagnosis.
In 2024, just months after revealing his illness, Charles rode in a carriage with Queen Camilla.
Now, it appears that the days of the monarch on horseback may be over for the foreseeable future.
It’s a practical and dignified adjustment and one that’s been met with understanding from both the public and royal commentators.
It’s a family affair, and this year, the spotlight will also shine on Prince William, Princess Catherine (Kate), and their three children—Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis.
The young royals have become crowd favourites, and their presence is sure to delight fans and photographers alike.
However, not all family members will be in attendance. Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, who have been living in the United States since 2020, will not be participating in the 2025 celebrations.
The ongoing rift between the Sussexes and the rest of the royal family has been well documented, and their absence is likely to be noted by royal watchers.
The monarchy has always been about striking a balance between tradition and the realities of the present.
It’s also a testament to the King’s resilience and commitment to his role, even in the face of personal health challenges.
For many Australians, the royal family remains a source of fascination and affection.
Whether you’re a staunch monarchist or just enjoy the spectacle, there’s no denying that these events are woven into the fabric of our shared history.
Read more: King Charles sparks wild speculation with mysterious social media teaser
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