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The actual dates of the Opening vary according to the political landscape, but this remains the most colourful event in the ceremonial calendar. Unfortunately most of the pageantry takes place within the Palace of Westminster, but good views of the procession can be had en route from Buckingham Palace to Parliament. Before the Royal processions sets out a detachment of the Yeomen of the Guard search the cellars of the Houses of Parliament - a tradition dating back to the Gunpowder Plot of 1605.

The Queen wears the Imperial State Crown and parliamentary robe for the ceremony itself, which takes place in the House of Lords. Some 250 representatives of the House of Commons are summoned by The Queen's Messenger (Black Rod); after the door of the House of Commons has been slammed in Black Rod's face, it is reopened to enable Black Rod to convey the Sovereign's summons to the Speaker.

This tradition is a reminder of the right of the Commons to exclude everyone but the Sovereign's messengers; no sovereign has set foot in the Commons since Charles I entered the Commons and tried to arrest five Members of Parliament in 1642. The Queen reads The Queen's Speech, seated on the Throne.

The Queen's Speech to the members of both Houses of Parliament outlines the legislation which will be introduced into Parliament in the coming session. The Queen has opened Parliament every year of her reign except 1959 and 1963.

Buckingham Palace, Houses of Parliament or any point in between.
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