Luton Borough Council
20/05/2022 - Queen's Jubilee and Luton Carnival come to town
With the special bank holiday to celebrate Queen Elizabeth’s 70 years on the throne taking place on 2 and 3 June, Lutonians across the town will be joining in the festivities and fun, as well as joining in the International Carnival.
Roughly 30 street parties will also be taking place as people take the opportunity to be part of this momentous historic occasion for the nation.
These local activities, along with other Platinum Jubilee celebrations in Luton build on a series of amazing events that have already taken place in the town this year. After two years of the impact of the pandemic, it has been wonderful to see friends, neighbours, families and communities coming together in a variety of events such as St George’s and St Patrick’ days, various Street Fests, the Big Iftar and the spectacular About Us illumination show in the town centre.
As part of the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee celebrations there will be a number of events in the Town Centre on Thursday 2 June to suit everyone’s tastes: creative activities for children will run from 1pm to 4pm including the opportunity to make a royal crown and there will be live music from 5pm to 9.45pm.
To add civic grandeur to the occasion, the Town Crier will be making a regal proclamation from the Town Hall at 2pm in which the lighting of the Jubilee Beacon later in the evening will be formally announced. A short series of events will start at 9.30pm culminating in igniting the beacon and a special choir performance to end the day.
On Saturday 4 June the Luton International Carnival returns with its vibrant colours, stalls and events that celebrate and enjoy the town’s rich diversity. Not only that, but there are strong historical links with Queen Elizabeth’s coronation.
In April 1954 Marilyn Gearing was crowned the Hat Queen at Luton Carnival (then a hat fair). The crown she wore was made by a Luton milliner, and a replica of the one used by Queen Elizabeth II just 2 years previously. Today, Marilyn still takes part in Luton International Carnival annually, designing and making the Luton Samaritans float that traditionally ends the Luton parade as 'Samaritans are always at the end of the line.'
Councillor Hazel Simmons MBE, said: “The Platinum Jubilee will be a unique event in our nation’s history and here in Luton we are determined to build on the fantastic vibe created by events such as the Carnival returning to our town and communities coming together after a terrible couple of years.
“I do hope as many people as possible will not only enjoy the two days holiday, but seize the chance to take part in some of the fantastic parties and events being planned across the town.”
Follow this link for more information on the Jubilee.
Full details of road closures and performance artists will be announced nearer the time.
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