There is a long-standing tradition that Queen Elizabeth celebrates not one, but two birthdays.
On April 21, the Queen enjoys her actual birthday, the one she enjoys in private with her family.
Most of this day is kept away from the camera, but later in the year the country and world will celebrate her 96th year.
The most recognisable event is Trooping the Colour and it is set to run later this year.
There are also some major events to look forward to on April 21 as well.
Here is everything you need to know about the Queen’s birthday events.
What is Trooping the Colour?
Trooping the Colour is a military parade that honours and celebrates the Queen for her birthday.
More than 1,400 soldiers, 200 horses and 400 musicians come together for the display.
It is a show of “military precision, horsemanship and fanfare”, as stated on the official website.
Streets are lined with crowds around Buckingham Palace and down The Mall to Horse Guard’s Parade.
The display ends with an RAF fly-past which is watched by members of the Royal Family.
When is Trooping the Colour?
Trooping in Colour is held at the same time every year, but it isn’t on the Queen’s actual birthday of April 21.
Instead, it is on her second birthday that the official celebrations are held, usually the second Saturday of June. In 2022 Trooping the Colour will take place on Thursday June 2.
It will form part of the Platinum Jubilee celebrations this year, honouring 70 years the Queen has been on the throne.
It is also part of a four-day bank holiday that millions can look forward to.
How can you watch Trooping the Colour?
The event itself is open to the public to attend, though tickets must be purchased to get a seat.
Seated and wheelchair access costs £30, while a standing room ticket will set you back £10.
If you would like to attend Trooping the Colour this year, you can book tickets here.
To watch the show at home, the show will be available to watch on BBC One and BBC iPlayer.
Which of the Queen’s birthday events are held on April 21?
There aren’t many official celebrations for the Queen on April 21.
However, gun salutes will be held in a few locations around the country.
These are held at midday (12pm) with a 41-gun salute in Hyde Park, a 21-gun salute in Windsor Great Park and a 62-gun salute at the Tower of London.
They are not ceremonies you can buy tickets for to attend, nor will they be aired on TV - but you might be able to hear them if you're around those locations at the right time.
