Introduction
Greetings, readers! Welcome to our comprehensive guide on "when the queen birthday." In this article, we will delve into all aspects of the monarch’s special day, from its history and traditions to the festivities and celebrations that accompany it.
The British monarchy has a long and rich history, and the queen’s birthday is one of the most important events in the royal calendar. It is a time for the nation to come together and celebrate the life and reign of their beloved sovereign.
The Queen’s Actual Birthday and Official Birthday
The Queen’s Actual Birthday
Queen Elizabeth II’s actual birthday is on April 21st, 1926. However, due to the unpredictable British weather, her official birthday is celebrated on a different day in June.
The Queen’s Official Birthday
The queen’s official birthday is always celebrated on the second Saturday of June. This tradition dates back to King George II in 1748, who chose to have his official birthday celebrated in the summer when the weather was more favorable.
The Trooping the Colour Ceremony
The Queen’s Birthday Parade
The Trooping the Colour ceremony is the centerpiece of the queen’s birthday celebrations. This spectacular event features over 1,400 soldiers, 400 musicians, and 200 horses. It takes place on the Horse Guards Parade in London and is attended by the royal family, including the queen herself.
The Colour
The "colour" in Trooping the Colour refers to the regimental flag of the 1st Battalion of the Grenadier Guards. During the ceremony, the colour is "trooped" (carried) down the ranks of the Guards as a show of loyalty and allegiance to the sovereign.
Other Birthday Traditions
The Birthday Honours List
On her official birthday, the queen releases a list of people who have been awarded honors for their outstanding contributions to society. These honors include knighthoods, damehoods, and OBEs (Orders of the British Empire).
The Queen’s Birthday Gun Salutes
The queen’s birthday is marked by gun salutes fired from various locations across the United Kingdom. The Tower of London fires a 62-gun salute, while Hyde Park and other locations fire 41-gun salutes.
A Detailed Look at the Queen’s Birthday Celebrations
- Trooping the Colour Ceremony: This spectacular event is the highlight of the queen’s birthday celebrations. It features over 1,400 soldiers, 400 musicians, and 200 horses.
- Birthday Honours List: The queen releases a list of people who have been awarded honors for their outstanding contributions to society.
- Birthday Gun Salutes: Gun salutes are fired from various locations across the United Kingdom to mark the queen’s birthday.
- Public Celebrations: The public is invited to attend various events and activities throughout the country to celebrate the queen’s birthday.
- Commonwealth Connections: The queen’s birthday is celebrated in all Commonwealth countries, with each country having its own unique traditions and festivities.
Related Keywords
- When is the queen’s birthday in 2023?
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- Queen’s birthday parade
- Trooping the Colour
- Queen’s birthday gun salute
- Queen’s birthday honors list
Conclusion
We hope you have enjoyed this comprehensive guide on "when the queen birthday." As you can see, the queen’s birthday is a grand celebration and a significant event in the British calendar. Whether you are a royal enthusiast or simply curious about the traditions and festivities that surround this special day, we encourage you to explore our other articles for more fascinating insights into the British monarchy.
FAQ about Queen Elizabeth II’s Birthday
When is the Queen’s official birthday?
Answer: The second Saturday of June (or the first Saturday of June if the second Saturday falls on Ascot weekend). In 2023, the Queen’s official birthday is Saturday, June 10.
When was the Queen actually born?
Answer: April 21, 1926
Why are Trooping the Colour, the military parade, and the Platinum Jubilee held on different dates?
Answer: Trooping the Colour is always held on the second Saturday of June, regardless of the Queen’s actual birthday. The Platinum Jubilee, which marked the Queen’s 70-year reign, was held over a four-day weekend from June 2-5, 2022.
When is the Queen’s birthday party held?
Answer: During the summer, the Queen typically hosts a garden party at Buckingham Palace for around 8,000 guests.
How does the Queen celebrate her birthday?
Answer: Privately, with her family and close friends.
Are there any public events held on the Queen’s birthday?
Answer: Yes, many towns and cities hold street parties, barbecues, and other festivities to mark the occasion. In London, the Queen’s official birthday is also celebrated with a gun salute in Hyde Park and a special service at St. Paul’s Cathedral.
When does the Queen receive her birthday wishes?
Answer: Traditionally, the Queen receives her birthday wishes from members of the public on her actual birthday, April 21. However, she may also receive well-wishes on her official birthday.
Can I send the Queen a birthday card?
Answer: Yes, you can send a birthday card to the Queen at the following address: Buckingham Palace, London SW1A 1AA.
What is the Queen’s favorite birthday cake?
Answer: Victoria sponge cake
What are some of the Queen’s other birthday traditions?
Answer: In addition to the garden party and the gun salute, the Queen typically releases a new portrait on her birthday. She also receives a special birthday message from the Prime Minister.
