With the Platinum Jubilee fast approaching, many of us are gearing up to celebrate the Queen’s 70-year reign on the throne. Events have already been taking place in the run up to the official Jubilee, with the four-day long weekend from 2-5 June the icing on the cake.
East Sussex Libraries are also holding a series of Jubilee-themed events at libraries across the county. Check them out here and get yourself down to your local library to enjoy celebrations fit for a queen!
Here are just a few ways to celebrate the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee in East Sussex in style.
Hastings Philharmonic Orchestra: Proms for all
When? Sunday 29th May
Where? White Rock Theatre, Hastings
What? The Hastings Philharmonic Orchestra is returning to the White Rock Theatre, for a “Proms for All” concert in tribute to Her Majesty the Queen and her Platinum Jubilee. Award-winning Bulgarian cellist, Michael Petrov will join the orchestra on stage as the cello soloist and Hastings Philharmonic Choir will join in partnership for this fabulous event as part of the Jubilee celebrations.
June Jubilation at The Colonnade
When? Thursday 2nd June
Where? The Colonnade, Bexhill
What? An official musical celebration of the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee, you’re invited to The Colonnade in Bexhill for a gala evening of fine music. Rother Community Choir, Sussex Brass, Sammy Lou, and Joe Philips – alongside compere Phillip Asselin – will present an evening of music from the 1950s to the 2020s. You are welcome to bring your own picnic to enjoy as you soak up the musical atmosphere on the terrace lawns overlooking the promenade.
When? Thursday 2nd June
Where? Rye Town Hall
What? As part of a jam-packed diary of Jubilee events, Rye Town Council is hosting a very traditional Jubilee Cry. In chorus with criers across the country, Rye’s Town Crier, Paul Goring, will give a special Jubilee proclamation from the steps of the Town Hall. Before Paul’s cry, eventgoers can enjoy music from the Ryebellion Drummers and the Rye Singers.
A Celebration in Flowers for the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee
When? Thursday 2nd to Sunday 5th June
Where? Battle
What? St Mary’s Battle is paying homage to Her Majesty with a decadent floral display set to impress.
When? Thursday 2nd to Sunday 5th June
Where? Bodiam, Northiam, and Tenterden
What? To celebrate the Queen as the longest reigning monarch, Kent and East Sussex Railways has planned a four-day Jubilee celebration, with something for everyone. Tenterden Station will host a medley of traditional festivities, with Morris dancing, cream tea, and a classic cars display for motor-enthusiasts. Head to Bodiam Station to see a special display of Land Rovers, including one of only two known remaining vehicles used during the Royal Commonwealth Tour of New Zealand and Australia in 1954.
When? Thursday 2nd to Sunday 5th June
Where? The Robertsbridge Club
What? Raise a glass to Her Majesty at the Robertsbridge Jubilee Beer Festival, with live music daily, a delicious BBQ, and a selection of 12 real ales from local brewers.
When? Friday 3rd June
Where? Hastings Pier
What? For something a little different this Jubilee weekend, why not join Queer on the Pier for a ten-hour disco marathon! This event is taking over Hastings Pier for a party of epic proportions, with DJ talent, go-go dancers, and plenty of local food and bars to keep you fuelled for the whole day.
Great British Vintage Tea Dance
When? Saturday 4th June
Where? Eastbourne Town Hall
What? Immerse yourself in the dances, sights and sounds of the Queen’s first 30 years of reign (50s, 60s & 70s) at this vintage tea dance at Eastbourne Town Hall. Eventgoers can enjoy an opportunity to learn popular dances from each era, and themed dress is encouraged!
When? Sunday 5th June
Where? Chapel Green, Crowborough
What? Crowborough residents can celebrate the Queen’s 70 years of service at a Big Jubilee Lunch hosted by Crowborough Town Council. This is a free-to-attend event for the whole family to join, with plenty of space to sit and eat with neighbours and fellow residents. Food vans, live entertainment, children’s activities, and puppet shows are just some of the wonderful things to look forward to.
Indoor Street Party at The Grand Hotel
When? Sunday 5th June
Where? The Grand Hotel, Eastbourne
What? A royal affair for a royal day! The Grand Hotel in Eastbourne is hosting an indoor street party full of royal festivities, with a jazz band keeping you entertained all afternoon long and a medley of delicious food options. Soak up the atmosphere of the live Jubilee pageant, which will be shown on a projected screen to conclude the afternoon.
The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee at The Keep
The Keep Archive Centre holds a wealth of materials relating to the Coronation and some of the most interesting and iconic items will be on display in the lead up to the Platinum Jubilee Weekend. Royal enthusiasts can look through items such as newspaper cuttings, a special Coronation Celebration souvenir programme, and photos from across the county which look back at how Sussex celebrated the Coronation.
