Queen Elizabeth entered a new era this Christmas, celebrating the holidays without her husband, Prince Philip, for the first time. In her annual Christmas message, the Queen acknowledged the loss while emphasizing the importance of carrying on traditions.
“And as much as I and my family miss him, I know he would want us to enjoy Christmas,” the Queen shared, reflecting the sentiment felt by families around the world who have experienced loss.
Queen Elizabeth II delivering her annual Christmas message
The Queen’s Christmas plans were scaled down this year. She remained at Windsor Castle, missing the traditional family church service. The decision reflected a shift towards smaller gatherings, a trend seen globally due to the ongoing pandemic.
Even amidst the quiet celebrations, there was a security breach on Christmas Day. A 19-year-old intruder was apprehended by police within minutes of entering the castle grounds. Fortunately, the Queen and her guests remained undisturbed.
Across the Atlantic, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle shared a candid holiday card featuring two-year-old Archie and six-month-old Lilibet Diana, offering the public their first glimpse of their daughter.
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's 2021 Christmas card featuring Archie and Lilibet Diana
As the new year begins, the Queen is setting her sights on a momentous occasion: her Platinum Jubilee. This celebration will mark her 70th year on the throne, a feat no other British monarch has achieved.
The Platinum Jubilee holds historical significance, offering a chance to reflect on the Queen’s reign and her unwavering dedication to duty. It’s a testament to her resilience and the enduring legacy of the monarchy.
The Queen acknowledged the upcoming celebrations in her Christmas message, stating, “I hope [the Platinum Jubilee] will be an opportunity for people everywhere to enjoy a sense of togetherness.”
Preparations for the Platinum Jubilee are already underway. Simon Brooks-Ward, the director of the event, shared insights into the main events scheduled for June.
“Walking along the Mall, obviously lots of traffic here right now, however, on the day there’ll be flags, there’ll be bunting and uh so the Queen will come out from from Buckingham Palace behind and be escorted by the Household Cavalry Mounted Regiments and this will be a huge great sort of flow of military music, dancing, culture, everything, a real explosion of color.”
The culmination of the festivities will be the traditional balcony appearance at Buckingham Palace, where the royal family will greet the crowds. This iconic image embodies the spirit of the Jubilee, uniting the nation in celebration.
However, the Queen’s health has been a subject of concern in recent months, raising questions about the extent of her involvement in the celebrations.
Another question looming large is the potential return of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle for this historic occasion. Their presence would mark a significant step towards family unity, a topic that has dominated headlines.
The Platinum Jubilee is more than a celebration; it’s a historical landmark in the Queen’s reign and a testament to her enduring commitment. The event carries profound meaning for the monarchy and offers a glimpse into the future as the world anticipates the next chapter in the British royal family’s story.
