It is time to see the Changing of the Guard and other Royal Palace events. 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 in front of the residence of the King of Sweden takes place every day of the year.
Changing of the Royal Guard in Summer
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.
The guards are sometimes seen approaching the royal palace on horseback, especially on April 30, the king’s birthday.
Other special summer events include Sweden’s National Day on June 6 and the Skeppsholmen gun salutes at noon on the Crown Princess’s birthday on July 14 and Queen’s Day on August 8.
Changing of the guard: The Show
The ceremony’s precise choreography and attention to detail represent the guards’ passion and dedication to their mission.
The changing of the royal guard in Stockholm is a timeless event that takes tourists to a bygone period of royal majesty, making it a must-see site for anybody experiencing the Swedish city, whether observed on a brilliant summer day or a freezing winter morning.
Changing of the Royal Guard in Winter
The changing of the royal guard is accompanied by a pistol salute from Skeppsholmen at midday on December 23 to mark the birthday of the Queen of Sweden, and January 28 in honor of King’s Name Day.
March 12 is the Crown Princess’ Name Day, celebrated in the inner courtyard of the palace.
When to see the change of the Royal Guard in Stockholm?
On weekdays, the Royal Palace’s exterior courtyard serves as the location for the Royal Guard Ceremony, which starts at 12:15. The event happens around 1:15 p.m. on Sunday.
Beginning on September 1, the parade typically happens on Wednesdays, Saturdays, and Sundays during the fall season.
On Saturdays and Sundays, the parade leaves the Army Museum at 11:45 a.m. The obelisk guards march at 1:14 p.m on Sundays and at 12:14 p.m on Wednesdays and Saturdays if there is no musical accompaniment.
The event is worth witnessing throughout the winter, from November to March, albeit it is not as large. In the meantime, the Royal Guard changes in public on Wednesdays and Saturdays at 12:10 p.m. and on Sundays and public holidays at 1:10 p.m from Mynttorget.
At noon, the royal guards march from the obelisk if there is no musical accompaniment. Sundays at 1:15 p.m, Wednesdays and Saturdays at 2 p.m. There are usually additional events over the holiday season.
History of the Royal Guard of Sweden
Since 1523, the royal guard has been stationed at the Stockholm royal palace. Around 30 000 guards from the Swedish armed forces are about to depart. The guards are in charge of protecting the royal palace and contributing to Stockholm’s defense.
They make up a sizable portion of the security personnel protecting the city’s residents. The royal guard takes part in state visits, royal ceremonies, the official opening of the Swedish Parliament, and other national celebrations.
The official residence and main royal palace of the Swedish monarchy is known as the “palais royal,” or “Palais of Stockholm”. It is situated in Stockholm’s capital at Stadsholmen in Gamla Stan.
The offices of the King and other members of the Swedish Royal Family, as well as the offices of the Swedish Royal Court, are situated there. The king uses the palace to carry out his duties as head of state.
How to get to the Royal Palace for the Changing of the Guard?
The Royal palace is located on the island of Gamla Stan at the heart of the Swedish capital. The closest tube station in kungsträdgården. From there, you need to cross the Strömbron bridge to get to Gamla Stan.
You will see the royal palace in front of you. To get to the change of the guard location, all you have to do is to walk along the castle on Skeppsbron road and take a left and walk on Slottsbacken until you reach Gustave III Obelisk.
Final Thoughts
No matter what time of year a tourist arrives in Stockholm, they are enthralled by the majestic ceremonial of the changing of the royal guard. This spectacle, which is steeped in tradition and enriched by history, displays the splendor and grace of the Swedish royalty.
The air is electric with anticipation as the guards march in synchronous perfection while wearing their distinctive bearskin helmets and impeccable uniforms. Onlookers are in amazement and appreciation as a result of the street’s reverberating rhythmic beat of their boots.
I highly recommend to arrive at least 15 minutes prior to the ceremony, as sometimes it can be very crowded, and for you to have the best location to take your videos or pictures.
