Celebrations marking the Queen’s 70th throne came to a close with a surprise public appearance by Queen Elizabeth II. The monarch appeared again on Sunday afternoon in a green coat and matching hat on the balcony of Buckingham Palace, waving to hundreds of thousands of delighted onlookers. Her closest relatives stood by her side: her son and heir to the throne, Prince Charles, with his wife, Duchess Camilla, and her grandson, Prince William, with his family.
William’s younger brother Prince Harry, who no longer takes on royal duties, was absent. The families had previously watched a colorful parade with more than 10,000 participants in front of the palace.
The show called “Jubilee Pageant” was led by the Golden State Coach, which was last on the road 20 years ago – including the hologram of the Queen in it.
Afterwards, members of the Army, Navy and Royal Air Force marched on the Mall boulevard, along with 200 horsemen. They were followed by members of numerous clubs, who recreated scenes from the 70-year reign of the Queen. The changes in British society since 1952 were reflected, for example in the areas of music, fashion and youth culture. Cars from all decades took part. The conclusion should be 150 “national treasures”, including celebrities such as football legend Gary Lineker.
Some municipalities had waived the fees that are actually due for road closures to allow parties.
The evening before, the Queen had been honored with a huge concert in front of Buckingham Palace. Her eldest son, Prince Charles, thanked his “mommy” for her decades of leadership and dedication. The 96-year-old Queen, who keeps resting due to mobility issues, was absent. However, she opened the show with a taped short film starring popular character Paddington.
