There are many benefits to social interaction, from lightening your mood to improving your health. So why not enjoy a cream tea or join a street party at a community event near you to celebrate the Coronation of King Charles III?
The symbolic religious ceremony celebrates King Charles III’s reign as the new Monarch of the United Kingdom along with his wife Camilla as Queen.
And while the official ceremony will be broadcast live on TV and radio on 6 May, there’ll be Coronation events taking place during the whole Bank Holiday weekend from 5 to 8 May.
One way to get involved is to join neighbours and communities taking part in the Big Lunch – their Majesties have even shared a recipe for Coronation Quiche for you to cook to make sure your celebratory weekend is a tasty success.
We’ve gathered together a few ways to celebrate the King’s Coronation in style, but with so many Coronation events going ahead, we can’t possibly list them all, so make sure you check the official Coronation events map and the Big Lunch interactive map to find Coronation events and street parties local to you.
Coronation Events in East Sussex
Alfriston
What? Alfriston Village Street Party Coronation Celebrations.
Join Alfriston Village for a right royal knees-up celebrating the Coronation of King Charles III. The day starts with a special church service at St Andrew’s Church followed by lunch and music on the High Street, Royal Parade dress up, games, stalls, competitions, cream teas and so much more.
When? 7 May
Where? Alfriston Village High Street
Bodiam, Northiam and Tenterden
What? Best of British Weekend
To celebrate the King’s new reign, Kent and East Sussex Railways has planned a three-day Coronation celebration, with something for everyone. Tenterden Station will host a medley of traditional festivities as well as a nostalgic trip back in time with a journey by steam through the beautiful Rother Valley countryside to Bodiam in East Sussex with a selected number of fares for 30% of the normal price.
When? 6, 7, and 8 May
Where? Bodiam, Northiam, and Tenterden
Bodiam
What? Coronation Celebrations at Bodiam Castle
Celebrate The Coronation of His Majesty the King and Her Majesty the Queen Consort against the backdrop of Bodiam Castle, with flags, bunting and picnic spots in the grounds. Join the craft workshop to decorate your own crown or try your hand at the medieval sport of archery, with trained instructors. Children can also enjoy some interactive storytelling throughout the weekend.
When? 6, 7, and 8 May
Where? Bodiam Castle, Bodiam
Burwash
What? Coronation Celebrations at Bateman’s
Escape the crowds and relax in the peaceful gardens of Bateman’s over the Coronation three-day weekend. With lawn games, cream teas and beautiful flower beds, Bateman’s is a perfect place to unwind on this Coronation Bank Holiday weekend. Stroll through the orchard’s spring blossom and visit the house to see Rudyard Kipling’s family home and the book-lined study where the writer worked.
When? 6 ,7, and 8 May
Where? Bateman’s, Burwash
Camber
What? Camber Right Royal Garden Party
A right royal garden party to celebrate the Coronation of King Charles III. Everyone is invited to bring a picnic lunch and enjoy cream teas, stalls, music and games.
When? 7 May
Where? Camber Jubilee Field and Memorial Hall, Camber
Crowborough
What? Kings Coronation: Family Day out
In celebration of the historic occasion, Crowborough Town Council will be providing an opportunity for residents to come together as a community, and celebrate with friends and families. There will be children’s activities as well as various performances on stage. There will also be food and drink vendors onsite but bringing along picnics will also be encouraged.
When? 6 May
Where? Goldsmiths Recreation Ground, Crowborough
Eastbourne
What? Coronation Brit-Pop Party
Join Eastbourne Bandstand on this Coronation evening and celebrate everything British. The Brit-Pop Society will transport you back to the roots of the Brit-Pop movement of ‘Cool Britannia’.
When? 6 May
Where? Eastbourne Bandstand, Eastbourne
Heathfeild
What? Coronation Family Fun Day
Live music, stalls, food, and drink and lots of entertainment for adults and children.
When? 7 May
Where? Heathfield Community Centre Playing Field
Pevensey
What? Coronation Tea Party
A right royal tea party in the new community orchard situated against the magnificent backdrop of Pevensey Castle. Tea, milk and maybe some cake! Bring along any royal teaware to add to the regal splendour of the occasion!
When? 7 May
Where? Pevensey and Westham Community Forest Garden, near Pevensey Castle
Ripe
What? Coronation Party
You’re invited to the Coronation celebration with music from live bands, hot food, a raffle, a fancy dress competition and much more.
When? 6 May
Where? The Paddock, Ripe
Seaford
What? Coronation Festival
A community and family fun day to celebrate the King’s Coronation with support from Seaford Town Council. Events include a children’s parade, dog show, performances, games and family fun, local crafts and food stalls, community stalls and hot and cold food.
When? 8 May
Where? Martello Fields, Seaford
Sidley Green
What? Sidley Coronation Party
Enjoy some family fun in Sidley to celebrate the Coronation with a free buffet, brass band, children’s entertainment, raffle, and best crown competition.
When? 6 May
Where? The New Inn, Sidley Green
St Leonards
What? Mencap Coronation Tea Party
A Coronation tea party includes a high tea, entertainment, games and a photo booth. Bring your friends and family, all are welcome. A red, white and blue dress code is encouraged.
When? 5 May
Where? The Robsack Centre, St Leonards