Jubilee Weekend

This weekend the United Kingdom celebrated the Queen's Diamond Jubilee, marking 60 years on the throne. There has been only one other diamond jubilee in history, and that was Queen Victoria's in 1896! Needless to say, this is a huge deal and the country went all out to make it an occasion to remember.

Jubilee crown in Harrogate

Harrogate is completely decked out in patriotic flair. There are street- and house parties galore.

Window display in Harrogate

Festive bunting in a village

My friends threw a fantastic tea party where hats were highly encouraged, so some of the S.O.S. ladies and I went hat shopping.

My thrift store find

Fascinators

Hats are a big deal here. There is no subtlety involved; they are large and in-charge. It was fun to see a bunch of Americans do our take on the tradition.

 

The whole S.O.S. gang

Our hosts did an amazing job. The spread was delicious and the decor was adorable.

We had finger sandwiches, scones, mince pies, sticky toffee puddings, eaton mess, and lots of other British-themed foods. And of course, tons and tons of tea.

Too bad this is only a once-every-60-years gig. I could definitely get used to this.

P.S. credit goes to Randy, Katie and Rachel for most of these pictures. Thanks!