Wanderlust World Wanderlust World If you were planning to witness the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace on Monday, December 3, 2012, you would have been disappointed. The ceremony simply doesn't take place on Mondays—or Tuesdays, for that matter.
The Changing of the Guard is one of London's most iconic ceremonies, but it follows a specific timetable. Traditionally, the ceremony occurs on alternate days (Monday, Wednesday, Friday, Sunday) during fall and winter months, and daily during spring and summer. However, the schedule can vary based on weather, state occasions, and other factors.
December 3, 2012 fell on a Monday. While some Mondays do feature the ceremony during peak season, the general rule is that Mondays and Tuesdays are typically off-days for the guard change during winter months. The ceremony involves the Old Guard handing over responsibility for protecting Buckingham Palace and St. James's Palace to the New Guard, accompanied by a military band.
For anyone hoping to see this spectacle, checking the official Household Division website or the British Army's schedule is essential. The ceremony typically begins at 11:00 AM and lasts about 45 minutes, but arrival well in advance is recommended for a good viewing spot. Weather cancellations are common, particularly in winter.