UK to mark coronation with street parties and a concert
By Britain on Sunday celebrates the coronation of King Charles III and Queen Camilla with street parties around the country and a concert at Windsor Castle.
Following Saturday’s glittering ceremony at London’s Westminster Abbey featuring royalty and leaders from around the world, the emphasis shifted to a chance for the public to mark the “Carolean” age after Queen Elizabeth II’s 70-year reign.
The medieval majesty of the coronation ceremony has its roots in the England of 1066 but the “Big Lunch” parties look to bring 21st-century Britain’s diverse communities closer together.
Monday has been declared a public holiday — meaning people can let loose on Sunday without having to worry about a hangover.
Charles and Camilla hope the long weekend “will provide an opportunity to spend time and celebrate with friends, families and communities”, Buckingham Palace said.
After the post-World War II hardships, street parties were a major feature of Elizabeth’s coronation in 1953 — and a memorable part of celebrations for her long reign in 1977 and last year.