Enjoy a Cost-Of-Living Friendly Coronation Celebration

With King Charles III's coronation set for Saturday, May 6, 2023, many people are planning to make the most of their time off. Locals and tourists will line the streets between Buckingham Palace and Westminster Abbey in London to watch the Royal Processions. Others will gather around the Victoria Memorial to watch the new King and Queen Consort wave from the Buckingham Palace balcony. And, while the cost-of-living crisis is a serious issue for many people in the UK, it's important to note that there's plenty to do across the country that won't break the bank.

1. The Coronation Big Lunch

Communities are encouraged to come together for The Big Coronation Lunch as part of the coronation events in London. The Eden Project's Big Lunch team is behind the idea. Big Lunch packs are free to order online and are packed with ideas, inspiration, and practical tips for organising your own event. Expect coronation street parties across the country, inspiring people to come together — without a doubt, one of the most uplifting things to do during the coronation weekend.

2. Sail Like a King

All hands-on deck! Get a ticket to see the Royal Yacht Britannia in Edinburgh over the coronation weekend to see the ship where King Charles spent his childhood summer vacations and toured the Western Isles with his family. You can explore all five decks of the Royal Yacht, from the State Apartments, the Royal Family's accommodation and living space, to the Naval quarters. And if you're feeling hungry, the Royal Deck Tea Room aptly serves a lovely coronation chicken sandwich.

3. Music for a Royal Occasion

Nothing says 'coronation' like a brass band! The East Anglian Brass Band Association is bringing the Foden's Band to Norwich for a special coronation Sunday concert. The programme includes music from the 1937 and 1953 coronations, such as "Crown Imperial" and "I Vow to Thee My Country," as well as selections from "The Last Night of the Proms." Oh, and don't forget it's BYOF (bring your own flag).

4. Get Crafty at Holyroodhouse Palace

Over the long weekend, His Majesty's official Scottish residence will open its grand doors, inviting children to get crafty and make some mementos to mark the day. Guests will be able to decorate their own crown to wear while exploring the Edinburgh-based Palace, as well as design their own flag and commemorative badge to honour the occasion.

5. A Variety Show Fit for a King

The Severn Valley heritage railway in Worcestershire is pulling out all the stops to throw a Corrie Naish bash you will never forget. Damon Conlan, a magician, will perform, as well as live music, comedy, and other activities. There will also be a large screen on Kidderminster Concourse broadcasting the official celebrations, allowing you to keep up with all the Royal fun.

6. The Big Help Out

A National Day of Volunteering is planned for Monday, May 8, the day of the coronation celebrations. In honour of King Charles III's life of service, Scouts and the Royal Voluntary Service came up with the idea. The National Trust, RNLI Lifeboats, and the RSPCA are among the organisations taking part. Non-profit organisations are encouraged to plan events and post them online to attract willing volunteers. A list of all opportunities will be available on the official website.

7. Watch The Coronation on The Silver Screen

Hot off the press official ‘watch zones’ will be set up across the UK during the coronation weekend. If you can't make it to London, this is your next best option for feeling like you're a part of history. Around 30 large screens will be installed across the country, including one in Cardiff Castle and another in Manchester's Piccadilly Gardens.

As King Charles III's coronation approaches there's something for everyone to participate in and enjoy, from community lunches and brass band concerts to craft workshops and volunteer opportunities. The coronation weekend is a time to get together and celebrate, and there are lots of ways of doing it without breaking the bank.