Buckingham Palace announces Coronation Weekend plans
When Queen Elizabeth II died in September, King Charles III ascended the throne, becoming the oldest new monarch in the history of Britain.
Buckingham Palace has revealed the Coronation will take place on Saturday May 6, 2023, at Westminster Abbey, and its plans for Coronation weekend.
The Coronation will reflect the monarch's role today and look towards the future, while being rooted in longstanding traditions and pageantry,
according to an official statement.
Here is what you need to know to plan ahead and enjoy the celebratory weekend.
King Charles III and Queen Consort CamillaSaturday May 6 2023 – The Coronation Service
The King and The Queen Consort will start their first procession, known as ‘The King’s Procession’, in which they will travel from Buckingham Palace to Westminster Abbey.
After the awaited solemn religious service, their majesties will return to the palace in a larger ceremonial procession labelled ‘The Coronation Procession’. Other Members of the Royal Family will join them.
As seen in many renowned historical videos, the Royal Family will appear on the balcony to conclude the day’s events.
Sunday May 7, 2023 – The Coronation Concert
A special concert will take place at Windsor Castle, which will be staged, produced and broadcast live by the BBC. The aim of this event is to bring the most infamous artists and icons together in favour of this historic occasion.
The pinnacle of the concert is ‘Lighting up the Nation'. Projections, lasers, drone displays and illuminations will light up specific locations across the United Kingdom.
Performers from the world of dance will also perform alongside the orchestra.
The Castle’s East Lawn will see the spoken word performed by iconic stage and screen characters.
The Coronation Choir, made up of the nation’s keenest community choirs and amateur singers from across the United Kingdom, will also make an appearance at the show.
There will be refugee choirs, NHS choirs, LGBTQ+ singing groups and deaf signing choirs, with the Royal Family wanting to represent diverse voices.
Sunday May, 7 2023 – The Coronation Big Lunch
The palace has provided a few ideas for neighbourhoods and communities to celebrate friendship, such as sharing a hot drink with their neighbour — a simple but intimate activity.
Street parties are encouraged on closer knit streets, as is dining together over lunch.
The Eden Project, made possible by The National Lottery, brings millions of individuals together every year to boost the community spirit, make people feel less lonely and support charitable causes. The project will oversee and organise The Coronation Big Lunch where Her Majesty The Queen Consort has been Patron of since 2013.
Look out for events taking place this weekend in streets, parks, gardens and community spaces to join the historic celebration.
Monday May 8, 2023 – The Big Help Out
This event is dually organised by The Together Coalition and a variety of partners like The Scouts, the Royal Voluntary Service and faith groups from across the United Kingdom.
Monday is a day to consider the benefits of volunteering in communities all over the nation.
A tribute to His Majesty The King’s public service, The Big Help Out will motivate others to try out volunteering and help local areas.
Ahead of the coronation weekend, read all about how Queen Elizabeth II mastered the art of living.
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