Celebrating Jubilee

For those of you in the UK, I hope you're enjoying the 4 day break from work and school runs. I have to say, the Brits certainly know how to throw a party. In this case, a massive party. This Diamond Jubilee celebration has been an eye-opening experience. See, the thing about Kiwis is we're so laid-back, we're practically horizontal particularly when it comes to festivities. I'm just in awe at the extent the city council went to put up the decoration. Even the plastic bags to store veggies in the local supermarkets have the Union Jack on them. The kids in school have been busy practicing the Diamond Jubilee song for weeks.

Take a look at the first picture again. You'll notice the dark clouds looming menacingly in the background. We barely took 3 steps out of our flat and had to dash back to escape the rain. After a quick change of coats (thank heavens for raincoats!), we joined the masses on High St.





All the stores got in on the act. There are all sorts of paraphernalia ranging from practical stuff to borderline bizarre. Lil L wanted a piggy bank. We couldn't find a pink porker anywhere but there were plenty of little piggies with the Union Jack plastered on the bellies.




Whaddaya know? They even had the Lion Dance to guide the mayor down the High St. It was a little odd (come to think of it, I think a brass band would've been better) but I was so stoked to see something that reminded me of my childhood in Borneo.



It was a madhouse on the main street as the antique market and street party were on simultaneously. The band was playing in the background. The craziest thing was the tight security. You'd think the Queen was dropping in to say hello.






Everyone came prepared including my friend, Vickie. I was suitably impressed with her Union Jack headband, scarf and umbrella. I err..... forgot to grab something blue, red and white. Tsk tsk tsk.





The buskers took the opportunity to showcase their talent. Remember I mentioned about the practical and bizarre stuff? The piggy bank is practical. The dude in the strange a la diver helmet was just weird.