Amid tragedy, the royal family comes forward to celebrate the 2017 Trooping the Colour

It's a royal affair!

The royal family stepped out on Saturday afternoon in London to celebrate the annual Trooping the Colour. The ceremony, which includes a procession of more than 1,000 soldiers, is a British tradition that dates back to the 17th century. It marks the sovereign's official birthday.

While the Queen Elizabeth's actual birthday was on April 21st, it was a day of celebrations for the 91-year-old monarch. Riding in a carriage with Prince Philip, the Queen waved to the crowds while sporting a powder blue ensemble and matching hat.

The Prince of Wales and Prince William, both decorated in traditional Guard of Honour uniforms, joined the procession on horseback. And as tradition states, Prince Harry and other members of the royal family followed by carriage.

Sitting next to Duchess Camilla of Cornwall, Duchess Kate Middleton joined the parade, wearing a gorgeous pink dress by her go-to designer Alexander McQueen, along with a matching hat.

See more of the royals

at Trooping the Colour:

The day of festivities comes at a shaky time for Britain -- the country has been faced with a series of recent tragedies, including terrorist attacks and a deadly fire. Prior to the start of the Trooping the Colour, Prince Philip and the Queen issued a moment of silence for the recent lives lost.

"Put to the test, the United Kingdom has been resolute in the face of adversity," she said. "United in our sadness, we are equally determined, without fear or favor, to support all those rebuilding lives so horribly affected by injury and loss," the Queen had said prior.

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