A garden party is the perfect way to celebrate the coronation of King Charles III this weekend. Here's how to pull off a celebration fit for Royalty.
It seems not everyone is prepared for the coronation this weekend, judging by the number of people typing the phrase 'when is Charles' coronation' into internet search engines. This Saturday at Westminster Abbey is the answer, by the way. This means there's still just enough time to pull off a street party or garden shindig to celebrate the coronation.
If you're one of those would-be revellers who have left it a bit late to get your coronation party organised, we've got good news. It's never too late to organise a knees-up with the neighbours! Here's how to pull off your own Coronation party to coincide with the official celebrations taking place on Saturday and all throughout the bank holiday weekend.
And if you're lucky enough to be going to a coronation street party or garden gathering, check out our round-up of the best coronation gifts and our favourite items from the M&S coronation range for some classy coronation gift inspiration for your hosts!
How to organise a Coronation Party
Street parties enjoyed a resurgence in popularity last year as people gathered with their friends and neighbours to celebrate the late Queen Elizabeth II's platinum jubilee. This year, Sunday 7th May has been earmarked as the official day for street parties and other community gatherings to celebrate King Charles' coronation.
You're late to the fiesta if you're thinking of throwing an official Coronation street party of the kind that involves closing off your road, though. For that, you'd need to give your local council at least four weeks' notice. Check GOV.UK to find out your local council's exact requirements for organising a street party in future.
1. Arrange a Street Meet
However, when it comes to how to plan a street party, Rob Crump from personalised gift retailer Printster recommends planning a Street Meet instead of a full-scale street party. 'This is essentially a smaller party that takes place on private lands, such as a driveway or front garden, and won’t require the hosts to fill out any forms or seek permission from the council,' he says. 'Street Meets are perfect to celebrate with your close neighbours on a smaller scale, without disrupting the entire road but note that if you intend to alcohol, serve hot food or drink after 11 pm or play loud music, then you are legally required to apply for a Temporary Events Notice (TEN) via the GOV.UK website, which costs £21 and should be applied for at least ten working days before your event.'
Alternatively, if your street meet is more of a last-minute event, you can apply for a 'Late TEN' which requires a notice period of just 5 working days before the event.
If you're going for a full-scale street party, we love this Union Jack Coronation bunting from M&S - we bet Kate and Wills have theirs up all ready for the big weekend!
2. Keep it simple - and kid-friendly
If that all sounds a bit much, keep it simple and just invite a few friends and neighbours around for a Jubilee tea party. Whether you're planning a garden party or a kitchen disco, schedule the arrangements with your neighbours in mind. It's always a good idea to invite them as a courtesy when you're having a party - especially if there's a chance the music might be loud or things might get messy. Consider starting your celebrations early in the day so that those with small children can join in the fun, without having to hunt for a babysitter on the biggest Bank Holiday weekend of the year.
Youngsters will love delivering these editable King's coronation party invitations to the guests. You can edit all the details in Canva and then print it off at home.
VIEW AT ETSY | £2.18
3. Plan some party games
No matter what age your guests are, party games are sure to help your street party or Jubilee gathering go with a swing. 'A street party is a great way to get to know all your neighbours better, so consider ice-breaker games and activities,' says Rob Crump. 'Consider children of all ages and make sure there are fun activities for them, from face painting to ball games. Other ideas for all ages, that won’t cost a penny, include Charades or Pictionary, or even a friendly game of football between houses.' You could also print personalised face masks of your favourite Royals and get together for your own memorable balcony moment.
This digital download Pin the Tongue on the Corgi game from Etsy also looks like lots of fun for all ages. It's the classic 'Pin The Tail' party game - with a Platinum Jubilee twist. You just download the files, print the size you need, attach the cute corgi cutout to a cardboard background and then snip out the paper tongues.
4. Get decorative
You don't have to spend a fortune on decor to make your Jubilee street party or indoor bash go with a swing. Crafty kids could have a go at making some Union Jack bunting - Baker Ross has a brilliant range of Jubilee craft kits. We particularly like the Royal Crown Kits (currently £4.95 for a pack of three) and the London Wooden Scene Kits (currently £3.95 for a pack of three) for a Coronation party craft idea.
5. Enjoy a feast fit for Royalty
And finally, no celebration is complete without some party food. So why not rustle up some tasty Coronation cakes and bakes. to share with your guests. And of course, you'll want some creamy Coronation Chicken and a cool glass of Very Berry Pimms to wash it all down with.
Cheers!
6. Don't forget your guest of honour
No party to celebrate the coronation of King Charles could possibly be complete without a Lifesize Cardboard Cutout of King Charles in pride of place - this one is an absolute steal at just £36.99 from Amazon!
