In Pictures: Grand parade marks Queen Elizabeth's official birthday

The Trooping the Colour parade was held in London on Saturday (June 17) to mark the official birthday of Queen Elizabeth II, who is 91. The sovereign’s actual birthday falls on April 21, but traditionally British monarchs have an official birthday in the summer months when there is a better chance of good weather.

Updated

Published

Jun 20, 2017, 09:24 AM

Waiting in excited anticipation inside Buckingham Palace are Prince George and his sister, Princess Charlotte, whose great-grandmother, Queen Elizabeth II, is celebrating her 91st birthday. The Trooping the Colour parade in London on Saturday (June 17) marks the Queen's official birthday. PHOTO: EUROPEAN PRESSPHOTO AGENCY

An exciting day for the little royals as the Duchess and Duke of Cambridge, with young Prince George and Princess Charlotte, watch the parade with Queen Elizabeth II and the Duke of Edinburgh. PHOTO: EUROPEAN PRESSPHOTO AGENCY

It's a regal gathering as Queen Elizabeth II and members of the royal family watch the grand ceremony from the balcony of Buckingham Palace. PHOTO: EUROPEAN PRESSPHOTO AGENCY

Forward march! Members of the Irish Guards, a regiment of the Household Division, putting on a well-drilled performance. The parade features more than 600 guardsmen and cavalry. PHOTO: AGENCE FRANCE-PRESSE

Cheers soar skywards as the Red Arrows, the British Royal Air Force aerobatic team, fly in formation past The Shard skyscraper. PHOTO: AGENCE FRANCE-PRESSE

It's a day to remember for the crowds outside Buckingham Palace, as the Red Arrows soar over the royal residence. PHOTO: AGENCE FRANCE-PRESSE

Let's hoof it home! Members of the Household Cavalry returning to Buckingham Palace after the parade. PHOTO: EUROPEAN PRESSPHOTO AGENCY

As the grand parade winds down, the Household Cavalry escorts the Royal Carriage back to Buckingham Palace. PHOTO: AGENCE FRANCE-PRESSE

After the ceremony marking her 91st birthday, Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip, the Duke of Edinburgh, make their way back to Buckingham Palace in a horse-drawn carriage. PHOTO: AGENCE FRANCE-PRESSE

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