So, I decided to check out the 2017 Trooping the Colour. I mean, who doesn’t love a good parade, right? Especially one with all that royal pomp and circumstance.
First off, I had to figure out what this whole “Trooping the Colour” thing actually was. Turns out, it’s this big annual ceremony where British Army regiments show off their flags, or “colours”, as they call them. It’s also the official birthday bash for the monarch, even though their real birthday might be on a different day. King Charles, for instance, has his actual birthday in November, but this shindig happens every second Saturday in June. Go figure.
Anyway, I woke up early that Saturday, you know, to get a good spot. I grabbed my camera and headed towards central London. There are all these people lining the streets. I pushed my way to the front row, like, excuse me, pardon me, coming through! I think it’s my lucky day, because I’m literally right behind the barriers on the Mall. Perfect view!
The whole thing kicked off with a minute of silence. Apparently, it was for the victims of that awful Grenfell Tower fire. Sobering moment, but a good reminder of what really matters.
Then, the show began! It was the 1st Battalion Irish Guards’ turn to troop their colour. The music was mostly Irish tunes, which was pretty cool. I saw these soldiers marching in perfect formation, heard the bands playing. The horses are so cool, especially the Cavalry Blacks. I learned that they’re known for their calm temperament, which is probably a good thing when you’re surrounded by thousands of people.
The Queen, of course, was there, looking regal as ever. And later, the whole Royal Family showed up on the balcony at Buckingham Palace. That’s when the RAF jets zoomed overhead in a flypast. I tried to get some good pictures, but those things are fast! But, I did get some great shots of the crowds, the soldiers, and the general spectacle of it all.
I spent the rest of the day just soaking up the atmosphere. It was a long day, but totally worth it. I mean, it’s not every day you get to see something like that, you know? It’s a real slice of British history and tradition. Definitely an experience I won’t forget. Plus, I got some killer photos to remember the day by. I posted some of my favorites on my blog, and they got a bunch of likes. It’s always nice to share these experiences with people, even if it’s just online.
Looking back, it was a pretty amazing day. I mean, I saw the Queen, witnessed a centuries-old tradition, and got some great photos. Not bad for a Saturday, right?
