Get set for beacon to mark Queen’s Platinum Jubilee celebrations

Published: 6 May 2022

A beacon is to be lit in Exeter as part of the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee celebrations.

The lighting will take place beside the old red and white maritime buoy on the King’s Arms Isthmus near Exeter’s Quayside on the evening of Thursday 2 June. It will follow a day of celebrations in the city centre, which include a High Street party and Military and Community Village on the Cathedral Green.

The celebrations are being organised by Exeter City Council to mark the special occasion, which is a Bank Holiday.

Lighting beacons to mark significant royal celebrations is a tradition that dates back hundreds of years, and Exeter will be joining others across the UK and the Commonwealth in honour of the Queen.

There will be music from the Devon & Somerset Fire & Rescue Band and The Maynard School Choir. The event starts at 9.30pm with a welcome from the Lord Mayor of Exeter and the beacon will be lit at 9.45pm.

Earlier in the day, between 11am and 3pm, benches and tables will be set up for people to enjoy the festivities in the High Street. There will be live music and people can bring their own picnic or click and collect from nearby restaurants. However the consumption of alcohol on the High Street is not permitted.

The Military and Community ‘village’ is being organised in partnership with The Battalion of the 6 Rifles, with community organisations, schools and local groups, taking part.

The City Council is also keen to hear from anyone who can help with the making of bunting for the High Street.

Anyone planning an event in their neighbourhood is urged to get in touch with the City Council, so it can be added to the events listing on its website www.visitexeter.com/whats-on/platinum-jubilee-celebrations-in-exeter

For advice on organising an event in Exeter, contact events@exeter.gov.uk