It’s not long to go until the King’s Coronation in May, which will be celebrated across the UK. What better way to celebrate than with a street party, especially since we’ll be getting a three-day bank holiday from Saturday 6th of May until Monday 8th of May – so you might as well take advantage!
Maybe you’ve never thrown a street party before, or just need a bit of inspiration? Whatever your situation, we’re here to help you celebrate with all kinds of ideas that will work perfectly for your Coronation party.
What’s a street party?
You’ve probably heard the phrase before, but might not be sure what it actually means. Since we’re all about finding an excuse for celebration here at thortful, we’re here to tell you all about them.
Basically, the type of street party we’re talking about is a casual bash for neighbours and others living in the local area. It’s a time for everyone to celebrate special events with food, drink, and fun party games. Sometimes you can even close off your street for the occasion – although this does require extra planning.
If you’d like to close off your street, then you’ll often need to tell your local council at least 4 weeks in advance, and apply by filling out an official form. It’s a great chance for everyone in the area to get involved, especially if you hold a few meetings beforehand so everyone knows the plan! Residents can also help on the day by lining up some tables and chairs and setting up areas for playing games. Oh and you can’t forget about the bunting!
Otherwise, you can have a more informal street party (or the trendily named street meet) on private land – like a garden or driveway. For these, you don’t need to notify the council but make sure you check in with your neighbours. For more inspo, you can read our blog on how to organise the perfect garden party.
Either way, it’s worth having a look into the rules and regulations for throwing a street party yourself early on, so you can make sure it goes off without a hitch!
What to wear to a street party?
It’s the age-old question every time there’s an occasion to get dressed up for, and it’s no different here. If you’re wondering what to wear to a street party (especially a Coronation street party), don’t worry – we’re here to help.
Obviously, one of the first things people associate with street parties is the Union Jack. Grabbing a t-shirt with the flag on it might be just the trick! For an extra patriotic touch, given that it is the Coronation after all, you could even wear a crown.
One of the best things about a street party is that you don’t need to be super fancy or fuss around with what to wear. A classic look for ladies at street parties is a comfy summer dress. If it’s a bit chilly, a jacket can also be thrown over the top without ruining the look. Meanwhile, for the guys, a casual shirt (thickness depending on the temperature) and jeans will work perfectly.
Whatever you decide to wear, it’s more about celebrating with those around you than focusing on fashion. Given that street parties are held outside and UK weather is unpredictable at best, it’s important to dress in layers (and keep an eye on your weather app!).
Coronation street party food ideas
No party is complete without food! The responsibility of providing food isn’t down to one person, everyone who’s coming can bring their own recipes to share with the group. Plus, this means you get to try all sorts of things.
Go get your paper plates and plastic cups ready to fill with our Coronation street party food ideas.
Classic British nibbles
From pork pies and sausage rolls to fruit jelly and Eton mess, there are so many British foods you can nibble on at your Coronation street party. That’s why putting on a spread with everyone’s favourite nibbles is guaranteed to go down well! Plus, they’re easily accessible from most shops.
An afternoon tea
Since the Coronation is a British tradition, you may as well celebrate it in an equally British fashion. As a hot cuppa will go cold quickly, the next best thing is to opt for some iced tea that everyone can enjoy. Food-wise, it’s pretty easy to make some finger sandwiches, scones with jam and cream, and other yummy sweet treats that those attending can whip up.
Stick with the official Coronation recipes
If you’re wanting to follow the rulebook, official recipes for the King’s Coronation include a Coronation Aubergine from Nadiya Hussain, roast rack of lamb with Asian-style marinade from Ken Hom, and for dessert a strawberry and ginger trifle from Adam Handling.
Feeling like being a chef for the day? You can find the full recipes on the official Coronation website. Alternatively, there’s always Coronation chicken, which was invented for the last Coronation of Elizabeth II!
Street party games and activities with a royal twist
What do you do at a street party? Well, you’re going to have to make your own fun here but that isn’t too difficult. To get you going here are some of our ideas for street party games and activities:
Musical thrones
Okay, yes, we admit it. This is just an alternative to the well-known party game of musical chairs. We recommend having at least two games running – one for adults and one for kids (because who said the older ones can’t still get involved with this sort of thing).
Then it’s time to turn the speaker up and watch the chaos unfold. Whichever adult wins the game can be crowned the king or queen of the street party, with the same going for the kids as a prince or princess. A true royal battle!
A Royal variety performance
Hold your very own Royal Variety Performance at the street party by getting everyone showing off their hidden talents. Whether it’s a spontaneous magic show, a super talented pet, or impressive football skills, the more unusual the better.
Royal portrait biscuit decorating
Biscuit decorating is a fun activity for all ages. A royal twist on this could be to try your hardest to do a portrait fit for the new King. Make sure you have lots of icing on hand to use, and pick biscuits that have a large enough surface for creating your work of art. Once it’s all over and done with, you get to devour your royal portrait biscuit.
Castle fort competition
Split people up into teams, allot them some space and have them create their very own royal residence. Grab blankets, cushions and whatever else you can think of to create a palace-like structure. Once everyone’s finished or enough time has passed, let the crowds have their say on which castle fort reigns over the rest.
Phew! That’s all of our street party ideas. We hope you have the most wonderful time celebrating with those around you. And if someone else did all the organising, don’t forget to send them a charming thank you card for all their effort and hard work.
If you’re wanting to read more fun articles like this or need inspiration for another special occasion you have coming up, we’ve got all sorts of articles on the thortful blog.
