Charles celebrates his 75th birthday on Tuesday. The king will kick off the festive day on Monday with a party – but will do it again next year. Why does he celebrate his birthday twice?
Like his predecessors, Charles celebrates his birthday twice as king. On his birthday itself and in June. The monarch’s birthday is then celebrated with the Trooping the Colour.
This tradition started in 1748. King George II loved parties, but his birthday was in November. Because of the weather at that time of year, he decided to have a summer party. When his successor George III was crowned king in 1760, Trooping the Color really grew into an annual event.
Charles’s birthday is also in November, so a big party outside is not an option due to the drizzly autumn weather. The king has decided to honor Trooping the Colour. Last June he celebrated it for the first time, in the traditional way with a parade, including horses. Charles himself also went on horseback. It was the first time a monarch had done so in 37 years. Elizabeth, who herself loved horses, last did so on her sixtieth birthday.
There is a chance that William, once he becomes king, will stick to one birthday. His birthday is in June and two parties in a row is a bit much.
With Camilla during Trooping the Color in June 2023. Photo: ANP
For the time being, Charles may hang up the streamers twice. He does this on Monday afternoon in Highgrove, where his private domain is. Charles celebrates this holiday with other people who were born in 1948 and who have done something important for society. These people have been reported by family or friends.
The party is described as a ‘tea party’: a kind of extensive high tea. According to sources, snacks made from regional products are mainly served. This fits well with the norms and values of the British king, who has the environment and climate high on his agenda. Charles seems to be a great wine and cheese lover, and he also enjoys a traditional scone. So there’s a good chance that these are on the menu.
November 14, Charles’ real birthday, is also a festive day. The UK’s National Health Service (the health care system) is also celebrating its 75th anniversary this Tuesday. Charles attends a reception for this celebration. And he is launching a food project that aims to combat food waste. Which also completely fits the ideals of the monarch.
In the evening the real party can begin. The British king will then receive family and friends at Clarence House (the official residence of Charles and his wife Camilla). His brothers, William and Kate and other family will undoubtedly join in there.
A spokesperson for Prince Harry and Meghan Markle has informed American media that they will not be present. “No invitation was received,” was the response.
2023-11-14 04:02:36
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