Every year on the second Saturday in June, the royal family gathers in London for the official celebration of Queen Elizabeth II‘s birthday. Even though she was actually born in April, the tradition of celebrating a “second birthday” dates back to King George II. According to the royal family’s official website, “Over 1,400 parading soldiers, 200 horses and 400 musicians come together each June in a great display of military precision, horsemanship and fanfare to mark The Queen’s official birthday.” The celebration concludes with the family gathering on the balcony of Buckingham Palace to watch the RAF flyover. This year, Meghan, Duchess of Sussex made her first appearance alongside her husband, Prince Harry, while Prince Charles, Prince William, and Princess Anne took to horseback for their roles as royal colonels. The Duchess of Cambridge and Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall, matching in blue, rode in a carriage as well. Click through for every image from the special day.
This article originally appeared on Harper’s BAZAAR US.
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