The Changing of the Guard ceremony is one of the most popular attractions for visitors to Stockholm, Sweden. This free 40-minute Changing of the Guard event in front of the residence of the King of Sweden takes place every day of the year.
Summer ceremonies of the Royal Guard
From April 23 to August 31, the ceremonial march through central Stockholm is accompanied by a full military band from the Swedish Armed Forces Music Center. Guards can sometimes be seen approaching the royal palace on horseback, especially on April 30, the king’s birthday. Other special events in the summer include Swedish National Day on June 6 and Skeppsholmen’s gun salutes at noon on Crown Princess’ birthday on July 14 and Queen’s naming day on August 8.
Winter Royal Guard ceremonies
The changing of the royal guard is accompanied by a arms salute from Skeppsholmen at noon on December 23 to mark the birthday of the Queen of Sweden, and on January 28 in honor of King’s Day. March 12 is the Crown Princess Naming Day, which is celebrated in the inner courtyard of the palace.
When to see the changing of the guard
The royal guard ceremony begins at 12:15 pm Monday through Friday in the outer courtyard of the royal palace. On Sundays, the event takes place at 1:15 pm. In the fall, starting on September 1, the parade generally runs only on Wednesdays, Saturdays, and Sundays. The parade leaves the Army Museum at 11:45 am and on Sundays at 12:45 pm If there is no musical accompaniment, the march of the guards from the obelisk at 12:14 pm on Wednesdays and Saturdays, and at 1 : 14 pm on Sundays.
In winter, from November to March, the event is not that big but it is worth seeing. During that time, the royal guard changes publicly on Wednesdays and Saturdays, departing from Mynttorget at 12:09 p.m., and on Sundays and holidays at 1:09 p.m. If there is no musical accompaniment, the royal guards march from the obelisk to 12:14 pm on Wednesdays and Saturdays, and 1:14 pm on Sundays. The holiday season often includes additional events.
History of the royal guard
The royal guard has been stationed at the royal palace in Stockholm since 1523. The guards are responsible for safeguarding the royal palace and are also part of the defense of Stockholm. They are an important part of the security force for the citizens of the capital.
The royal guard participates in royal ceremonial occasions, official state visits, the official opening of the Swedish Parliament and other national events.
The Royal Palace
The royal palace, also known as the Stockholm Palace, is the official residence and main royal palace of the Swedish monarch. It is located on Stadsholmen in Gamla Stan, in the capital of Stockholm. There are the offices of the king and other members of the Swedish royal family, as well as the offices of the royal court of Sweden. The palace is used by the king while performing his duties as head of state.
