Queen Elizabeth's Platinum Jubilee 2022: Queen says she is 'deeply touched' by jubilee celebration
The queen is the first British monarch to celebrate a Platinum Jubilee.
The U.K. threw a once-in-a-generation celebration for Queen Elizabeth II's Platinum Jubilee.
The 96-year-old queen is the first British monarch in history to reach a Platinum Jubilee, which marks 70 years on the throne.
Elizabeth ascended to the throne on Feb. 6, 1952, following the death of her father, King George VI.
The queen's Platinum Jubilee celebration included everything from Trooping the Color to a National Service of Thanksgiving, a star-studded concert led by Diana Ross, thousands of lunches and street parties across the country and a final appearance by the queen herself.
Latest updates:
Queen Elizabeth II sends thank you message
Queen Elizabeth II shared a written thank you message on Sunday to mark the end of four days of celebrations for her Platinum Jubilee.
"When it comes to how to mark seventy years as your Queen, there is no guidebook to follow. It really is a first. But I have been humbled and deeply touched that so many people have taken to the streets to celebrate my Platinum Jubilee," Elizabeth wrote. "While I may not have attended every event in person, my heart has been with you all; and I remain committed to serving you to the best of my ability, supported by my family."
"I have been inspired by the kindness, joy and kinship that has been so evident in recent days, and I hope this renewed sense of togetherness will be felt for many years to come," the queen continued. "I thank you most sincerely for your good wishes and for the part you have all played in these happy celebrations."
The queen signed her message with her first name, Elizabeth, followed by the letter R, which stands for Regina, the Latin word for queen.
Queen Elizabeth II surprises with Buckingham Palace balcony appearance
Queen Elizabeth II made a surprise appearance on the balcony of Buckingham Palace Sunday at the conclusion of the four-day celebration of her Platinum Jubilee.
The queen was joined on the balcony by her heirs, Princes Charles, William and George, as well as Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall, Kate, Duchess of Cambridge and Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis.
Elizabeth, dressed in a green coat, green hat and white gloves, stood and watched as thousands of members of the public sang "God Save the Queen."
Before departing the balcony, Elizabeth gave a royal wave.
Ed Sheeran performs in front of Buckingham Palace
Music star Ed Sheeran is center-stage in front of Buckingham Palace for the finale of Queen Elizabeth II’s four-day Platinum Jubilee celebration.
As Sheeran performs his hit song "Perfect," images of the queen from throughout her 70-year reign are projected onto screens.
Elizabeth is back in residence at Buckingham Palace after spending much of her jubilee celebration at Windsor Castle. As the Platinum Jubilee Pageant was taking place outside of the palace, the Royal Standard was raised, signifying the queen’s return.
Queen Elizabeth II returns to Buckingham Palace
Queen Elizabeth II is back at Buckingham Palace Sunday after spending much of the Platinum Jubilee weekend at Windsor Castle.
The 96-year-old queen has made two in-person appearances during the celebrations of her 70-year reign, at Trooping the Color on Thursday and later that night at the lighting of the Platinum Jubilee beacon.
Elizabeth's return Sunday to Buckingham Palace was marked by the raising of the Royal Standard, the flag flown when the queen is in residence.
Outside the palace, the Platinum Jubilee pageant is taking place, a cultural celebration involving thousands of performers.