Queen Elizabeth II’s Platinum Jubilee begins

The 96-year-old is the longest-serving monarch in British history

LINCOLN, Neb. (KLKN) — Queen Elizabeth II’s Platinum Jubilee took off on Thursday, the first of four days of celebration of her 70-year reign.

At 96 years old, the queen is the first British monarch in history to receive a Platinum Jubilee, with Elizabeth ascending to the throne at 25 years old, immediately after her father, King George VI, died in 1952.

The four-day celebration is a fete, with the traditional Trooping the Color birthday parade, a lighting ceremony to symbolize the queen’s impact on the world and a special performance by Diana Ross.

Along with being celebrated in the United Kingdom, Elizabeth received congratulations from abroad, with President Joe Biden and first lady Jill Biden sending their best wishes.

“For 70 years, you’ve inspired people with your selfless devotion and service to the people of the United Kingdom and the Commonwealth,” President Biden said. “Throughout your reign, the relationship between the United Kingdom and the United States has grown stronger and closer than ever.”

The first lady added, “Throughout the years, the joy your visits to the United States have brought Americans and your solidarity with the American people in times of tragedy have deepened the friendship and profound connection between our countries.”

Prince Harry and Meghan, the Duchess of Sussex, are attending the jubilee, although they were not present for the royal photo, as only “senior working royals” and their children were allowed on the balcony.

The couple were expected to accompany the queen at the Thanksgiving service at St. Paul’s Cathedral, but it is now being reported that Elizabeth will not be attending.

The palace wrote in a statement: “The Queen greatly enjoyed today’s Birthday Parade and Flypast but did experience some discomfort. Taking into account the journey and activity required to participate in tomorrow’s National Service of Thanksgiving at St Paul’s Cathedral, Her Majesty with great reluctance has concluded that she will not attend. The Queen would like to thank all those who made today such a memorable occasion.”