King Charles III’s Coronation: A Historic Occasion
The UK government has announced that Monday, 8 May 2023, will be an official extra bank holiday to mark King Charles III’s coronation. Despite the coronation day itself, which takes place on Saturday, 6 May 2023, this unique holiday will allow citizens to celebrate this momentous event.
On Sunday, 6 November 2022, the announcement of this public holiday was made. Consequently, this brings the total number of bank holidays in the UK for 2023 to nine, with the additional day off scheduled just one week after the early May Bank Holiday on Monday, 1 May 2023.
Prime Minister Rishi Sunak stated, “The coronation of a new monarch is a unique moment for our country. In recognition of this historic occasion, I am pleased to announce an additional bank holiday for the whole United Kingdom next year.” He subsequently expressed his hopes for citizens to come together in celebration and tribute to King Charles III by participating in local and national events.
Celebrating King Charles III: Events Across the UK
Numerous events are planned in London to celebrate King Charles III, including street parties across the capital and beyond. The Big Lunch, organized in collaboration with the Eden Project, aims to unite communities, while a national day of volunteering has also been introduced. Residents are encouraged to indulge in afternoon tea, enjoy the beautiful local parks, or check their councils’ websites for the best ways to partake in the celebrations.
What Date is King Charles III’s Coronation?
The official coronation ceremony will be held on Saturday, 6 May at Westminster Abbey, a location with a rich history of royal ceremonies spanning over 900 years.
What Will Happen on the Day of the Coronation?
During the coronation, the Archbishop of Canterbury will conduct a religious service. The new Sovereign will take an oath in front of dignitaries, including heads of state and representatives of the Houses of Parliament. The Archbishop will bless and consecrate the King while he sits in King Edward’s chair, receiving the orb and sceptres as part of this time-honored tradition.
This coronation tradition dates back to 973 AD, when King Edgar was crowned at Bath Abbey. Every monarch since has experienced a coronation ceremony tailored to their individual preferences. While Queen Elizabeth’s coronation saw attendance exceeding 8,000, King Charles III’s coronation is anticipated to host approximately 2,000 guests, comprising heads of state, other monarchs, and notable celebrity figures, although the exact guest list will remain undisclosed until closer to the event.
