The Changing of the Guard -- Swedish Style (Stockholm, Sweden)

Living in a country with an incredible changing of the guard (think Buckingham Palace), the bench was set fairly high for arrival for the changing of the guard at the Royal Palace.  Okay, we didn't actually know that the changing of the guard was happening when we got to the Palace.  But as soon as we arrived, the barriers were erected and the people began to congregate.  Fortuitously, the barrier was placed in front of me, and just like that, I have a front row seat (standing position)!  It was a bit cold (read freezing) and raining, but I can report it was really nice.  There were trumpeters, drummers, marching soldiers -- everything necessary for the right amount of pomp and circumstance! 

Here is a guard prior to the beginning of the ceremony.  I was really admiring their hats -- especially in the rain!  

Here are the guards heading out.  The leave the courtyard, and return through the main gates -- with the drummers, of course!

In this picture, the guards have just come through the main gates and are marching into formation in the courtyard.

The majority of the ceremony is in this position.  The guards are singled out (for reasons probably stated in Swedish!), and then show off a bit.  They march, command each other, raise and lower the flags and switch gun and sword positions.  Very regal!!