Queen Elizabeth II Celebrates Seven Decades on the Throne

by Anna Haas ‘23

Many people are fascinated by the drama, splendor, and historical significance of the British Royal Family. Now, the fascination will continue as the eyes of millions fixate on the events that will celebrate Queen Elizabeth II’s Platinum Jubilee as she marks 70 years on the throne. Queen Elizabeth is one of the most famous and beloved monarchs in the world and is currently the longest reigning monarch as well as the world’s oldest. However, Queen Elizabeth never would have even become Queen if her uncle, King Edward VIII, had not abdicated the throne in 1936, placing Elizabeth’s father, King George VI, on the throne. Even still, Queen Elizabeth would not have had the title of longest reigning monarch if her father had not died suddenly in 1952. Seventy years later, the United Kingdom (UK) and the Commonwealth have planned a year-long celebration for the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee.

One of these events includes the Platinum Pudding competition where bakers nationwide have been tasked with finding a new pudding for the Queen. The five finalists will prepare the pudding they created and present it to a judging panel which will include the palace head chef. The winning recipe will then be announced to the public for people all over the world to enjoy.

Another celebratory event includes the Queen’s Green Canopy project which will plant thousands of trees throughout the UK. Since the beginning of the year, more than 60,000 trees have already been planted. This project is set to continue throughout the year and into March of 2023.
The week of June 2 to 5 is the culmination of the Jubilee. The first day will include the Queen’s birthday parade and ‘Trooping the Colour’ as well as an Royal Air Force fly-past. Beacons will also be lit throughout the UK and Commonwealth with the principal beacon being lit in a special ceremony at Buckingham Palace. One of the last events will be the Platinum Jubilee Pageant where people, including artists, dancers, musicians, and military personnel will come together to tell the Queen’s story of her 70 years as monarch.

Though full of regal ceremonies and activities, this event is most importantly a time to celebrate a woman who has seen and done so much during her life.