The coronation of a UK Monarch is a once-in-a-generation event and a fabulous chance to showcase the wonderful pageantry of the UK. It’s also a fantastic opportunity to get together with loved ones and (hopefully) enjoy some late spring sunshine. For many, our hosting of such spectacles is a fundamental part of what it means to be British and brings the nations together like no other event.
The investiture will see His Majesty King Charles III crowned alongside The Queen Consort, followed by a concert at Windsor Castle the following Sunday. In the usual eclectic fashion of ‘something for everyone’, under the close direction of His Majesty, the organisers have arranged a concert like no other. With stars from across the UK and wider world, including, Katy Perry, Lionel Richie, Take That, Bette Midler, Andrea Bocelli, Sir Bryn Terfel and Alexis Ffrench, alongside choirs from the NHS, LGBTQ+ groups, deaf and refugee choirs. Hosting the event will be Hugh Bonneville and perhaps more strangely Paddington Bear.
A Coronation like no other
As due to the nature of Coronations they are held typically so far apart, each one throughout history is different from previous events. Their Majesties have been keen to encourage people to spend the weekend celebrating with friends, families and their communities.
It’s been reported that to reflect the mood of the nation, His Majesty has been keen to ‘dial back’ on some of the usual pomp and posterity that one might expect to see and was certainly televised in HM Queen Elizabeth II’s coronation. But do not let this dampen your spirits. By all accounts, this will still be a remarkable spectacle, worthy of the occasion.
How to celebrate the Coronation
On the Sunday the ‘Coronation Big Lunch’ aims to see communities come together in street parties, town festivals and many other big and small events. You can find out more about organising something here on the official website.
It will come as no surprize to anyone that thanks to the Coronation weekend, most workers have been gifted an extra Bank Holiday Monday. With the hope of fine weather, the whole nation is being encouraged to join friends and families in what is being heralded as ‘The Big Help Out’.
Everyone will be encouraged to use the extra bank holiday to volunteer in some capacity. Whether that be through an established organisation like the WI or CSSC or perhaps just smaller groups on a town litter pick or meal delivery service. Again, you can find out more about organising something on their official website. Or you can reach out to your VTL or local volunteer to find out what CSSC is doing in your local area.
How to see the Coronation
If you’re lucky enough to live near Westminster Abbey or Windsor Castle, you’re sure to be able to catch a glimpse of the procession as they travel between venues. Perhaps you’ve been even luckier and will be attending the actual concert in person via the public ticket ballot. If so, do let us know and send us some pictures of the occasion.
But for those us less fortunate, you’ll be granted the best view on TV, most likely through all terrestrial channels. Scheduled to start early on the Saturday and continue throughout the morning and afternoon.
However you celebrate or indeed sidestep the Coronation, we hope you have a fantastic weekend and make some fabulous memories with your loved ones.