Brits will receive an extra day off in June 2022 to commemorate the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee
Yes, you read that right: there will be a four-day Bank Holiday for the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee in 2022. The usual May bank holiday will be moved to Thursday the 2nd of June, with an additional day off on Friday the 3rd.
In a week where we’ve seen a less than idyllic side of the Royal Family, it’s hard to ignore that the announcement has come at a significant moment.
Whatever you make of the Royals, Prince Harry himself was openly supportive of his grandmother. He assured the public that the claims lodged against the Palace did not reflect their relationship and that the issue was with the institution, first and foremost.
The Platinum Jubilee marks 70 years since Queen Elizabeth’s coronation and, as such, the celebrations are set to be memorable. Culture Secretary, Oliver Dowden teased a “once-in-a-generation show”.
In addition to the usual pageantry, Dowden also promises an event “that mixes the best of British ceremonial splendour with cutting edge art and technology”.
Crucially, the long weekend will also share recognition with community heroes. Jubilee medals are set to be awarded to public services workers such as the armed forces and emergency services. Street parties are also a staple of these events – whether there will still be the need for Covid/social distancing guidelines in the future, who knows?
Lastly, people are expected to be encouraged to plant a tree for the Queen’s Green Canopy campaign. This initiative hopes to help preserve the UK’s national forest and natural landscape – a very worthwhile cause indeed.
