HONIARA, Solomon Islands: The Government House today (Monday, 9th June) announced that entry to the National Stadium during the King’s Birthday Trooping of the Colors Parade is free for the public.
Private Secretary to the Government House, Rawcliff Ziza, clarified to encourage members of the public to witness the Police and Uniform groups parade, following rumors suggesting entry is paid.
This year is the second celebration to be held at the National Stadium apart from the Lawson Tama stadium, which was the usual venue in the past.
“I would like to assure our good public that entry to the national stadium is free for those interested in witnessing the King’s Birthday parade. We are excited to invite the public to join the celebration at the National Stadium,” Mr Ziza said.
Ziza added that normal security checks at the main entrances to the stadium will be performed by security authorities to ensure a smooth and peaceful event.
The King’s Birthday parade will be staged from 7:00 am to 11:00 am on Friday, June 13.
The day is a public holiday and is regarded as one of the important national events of the year in the country.
It starts with a police parade and marching band and will also include a speech from the Governor General, who will also officiate the presentation of Honors and Awards and a pardoning ceremony.
The King’s Official Birthday is the selected day in most Commonwealth realms on which the birthday of the monarch is officially celebrated in those countries, including the Solomon Islands. The celebration does not necessarily correspond to the date of the monarch’s actual birth.
Since Independence in 1978, the birthday of the reigning King or Queen has been celebrated in June each year in both Britain and the Solomon Islands.
The country recognizes and celebrates this holiday because the King is the head of state of Solomon Islands, represented by the Governor General.
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