London throws big birthday bash for Queen

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London throws big birthday bash for Queen

The Associated Press Published Saturday, June 13, 2009 1:07PM EDT

Text:

LONDON - London is throwing a big party today to mark the Queen's official birthday.

The Queen turned 83 in April, but in a tradition dating to 1748, the public party -- known as "Trooping the Colour" -- is held in June when the weather is better. This year's parade was held in bright sunshine.

It featured more than 1,100 soldiers, including the famous Foot Guards, who wear bright red coats and bearskin hats.

The Queen wore a peacock blue coat and matching hat as she travelled in an open carriage down The Mall through central London, accompanied by her husband, Prince Philip. Prince Charles and Princess Anne rode on horseback behind her.

Princes William and Harry also attended the ceremony, accompanying their stepmother Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall.

After the parade, the family gathered on the balcony at Buckingham Palace for a Royal Air Force fly-by.

RELATED IMAGES

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Britain's Queen Elizabeth II, center left, accompanied by her husband Prince Philip, center right, and other members of the royal family stand on the main balcony of Buckingham Palace, as they attend the annual Trooping the Colour, in central London, Saturday June 13, 2009 (AP / Lefteris Pitarakis)
Queen Elizabeth II smiles at Prince Philip during the annual Trooping the Colour parade, in London, on Saturday June 13, 2009. (AP / Lewis Whyld / PA Wire)