The ceremonies opened on Saturday, after The Queen had decreed that the first event be the traditional derby held at Epsom Downs. On Sunday, millions of Britons gathered in the capital, despite the typical London weather, to watch the Thames Diamond Jubilee River Pageant - a parade of more than 1,000 ships from all over the Commonwealth. Such a display had been unseen since the 17th century. Leading the parade was the royal yacht, shining with red and gold decorations. Onboard were Queen Elizabeth II, her husband Prince Philip, and other members of the Royal Family, including Prince Charles, heir apparent to the British throne.

On the third day, The Queen and Royal Family members attended a concert outside Buckingham Palace, featuring music stars like Elton John and Paul McCartney. Prince Charles went on stage to pay homage to his mother: “We are now celebrating the life and service of a very special person over the last 60 years. I was three when my grandfather George VI died and suddenly, unexpectedly, you and my father's lives were irrevocably changed. So as a nation this is our opportunity to thank you and my father for always being there for us. For inspiring us with your selfless duty and service and for making us proud to be British”, Prince Charles said.

The Royal House of Romania also attended the London celebrations, represented by Princess Margareta, daughter of Mihai I, the last King of Romania, and Prince Radu. In May, King Mihai of Romania was guest at a gala dinner honoring the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee at Buckingham Palace. The two share a common great-grandmother – Queen Victoria. King Mihai was the only guest at the event to have attended all the major royal events in London since 1937. He was present at the crowning of King George VI at Westminster Abbey in 1937, as heir apparent and representative of the Kingdom of Romania.

During her 60 years of reign, Queen Elizabeth II of the United Kingdom has become a worldwide symbol. She is the eldest European monarch and also the monarch to have traveled the most, with over 260 official visits paid so far. You can also find this report online, at rri.ro, and on Facebook.