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Queen’s ceremonial birthday: Kate joins the parade

Britain's Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip ride in a carriage during the Trooping The Colour parade at Buckingham Palace, in London, Saturday, June 13, 2015. Hundreds of soldiers in ceremonial dress have marched in London in the annual Trooping the Color parade to mark the official birthday of Queen Elizabeth II. The Trooping the Color tradition originates from preparations for battle, when flags were carried or "trooped" down the rank for soldiers to see. (AP Photo/Tim Ireland) Britain's Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip ride in a carriage during the Trooping The Colour parade at Buckingham Palace, in London, Saturday, June 13, 2015. Hundreds of soldiers in ceremonial dress have marched in London in the annual Trooping the Color parade to mark the official birthday of Queen Elizabeth II. The Trooping the Color tradition originates from preparations for battle, when flags were carried or "trooped" down the rank for soldiers to see. (AP Photo/Tim Ireland)

By Associated Press June 13, 2015 1 min read

LONDON (AP) – Queen Elizabeth II has marked her ceremonial birthday with the colorful “Trooping the Color” parade in the heart of London.

She was joined by senior royals including the Duchess of Cambridge, who made her first appearance in public since leaving the hospital with newborn Princess Charlotte six weeks ago.

Prince Charles, Prince William and Princess Anne were on horseback for the annual ceremony.

The queen turned 89 on April 21, her actual birth date, which is traditionally marked in private, with a public celebration in June.

Throngs gathered outside Buckingham Palace to view the festivities and to see the royals gathered on the palace balcony.

There was no sign of Princess Charlotte but some onlookers saw young Prince George enjoying the parade from his vantage point inside the palace.