Here is King Charles III’s birthday ‘Honours List’, its story, and the curious tradition of celebrating two birthdays in a year, a practice inherited from his late mother, Queen Elizabeth.
In the United Kingdom, the Queen’s or King’s official birthday is marked by the publication of a prestigious list known as the Honours List.
This list, according to the Cambridge Dictionary, comprises special titles and distinctions conferred by the government upon individuals as a recognition of their exceptional achievements and contributions to society.
Among the honors bestowed are knighthoods, which bestow the title of “Sir” upon men, and damehoods, which grant the title of “Dame” to women.
These titles, along with other distinctions, serve to acknowledge and celebrate the outstanding efforts and service rendered by individuals across various fields.
Typically, the Honours List is announced in June, coinciding with the official birthday of King Charles III.
It is important to note that this official birthday is distinct from the monarch’s actual date of birth, adding to the significance and grandeur of the occasion.
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Why does King Charles III have two birthdays?
As monarch, King Charles III observes two birthdays, a tradition reminiscent of his late mother, Queen Elizabeth II, as per Metro UK.
Queen Elizabeth II, born on April 21, 1926, celebrated two birthdays annually throughout her remarkable seven-decade reign.
The second birthday was commemorated with an “official birthday celebration,” highlighted by the iconic Trooping the Colour parade held in the summertime.
Continuing this long-standing tradition, King Charles III also marks two birthdays. His official birthday falls on the second Saturday in June, while his actual birth date is on November 14, 1948.
Trooping the Colour, a ceremonial spectacle dating back to 1748, is a key component of these celebrations.
The event, held at Horse Guards Parade in Whitehall, traditionally sees the King inspecting the troops on horseback alongside other senior royals, serving as Colonel in Chief of the seven Guards regiments of the Household Division.
However, this year’s Trooping the Colour, which took place on June 15, featured a significant change.
Due to ongoing cancer treatment, the King reviewed the Guardsmen and officers from an Ascot Landau carriage, accompanied by the Queen, following medical advice.
The Irish Guards’ Number 9 Company was central to the ceremony, “trooping” their colour during this prestigious event.
King Charles III continues to honor this tradition, celebrating his official birthday with Trooping the Colour, a time-honored event that pays tribute to the monarch and celebrates the nation’s history and heritage.
Who’s on the King’s Birthday Honours List?
This year’s King’s Birthday Honours List, as reported by BBC, features a diverse array of remarkable individuals.
Among them is Alan Bates. He bravely campaigned to expose the Post Office Horizon scandal, leading to his knighthood in recognition of his efforts.
Joining him are three new dames: the acclaimed actress Imelda Staunton, renowned designer Anya Hindmarch, and celebrated artist Tracey Emin.
Their contributions to their respective fields have earned them a place at the top of this prestigious list, which also honors hundreds of individuals from various walks of life.
In the realm of sports, cycling star Mark Cavendish receives a knighthood. Former international footballers Graeme Souness, Ally McCoist, and Karen Carney also receive honors for their achievements.
In the entertainment world, professional dancer Amy Dowden and former EastEnders star Rose Ayling-Ellis, both receive MBE honors.
The Gazette clarifies that MBE stands for Member of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire. Additionally, author Monica Ali and singer Rebecca Ferguson receive honors.
Additionally, author Monica Ali and singer Rebecca Ferguson are among those honored this year.
After more than 30 years in Countdown’s dictionary corner, lexicographer Susie Dent also receives an MBE. This highlights her significant contributions to the field of linguistics.
Banner photo via Instagram @theroyalfamily.
