Writer Joseph J. Airdo // Photo by Carl Schultz

In honor and celebration of the Platinum Jubilee for Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, English Rose Tea Room this summer will host a four-day festival that will feature a variety of on-theme entertainment, music and more.

At 70 years, Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II is the longest-serving British Monarch, therefore this Platinum Jubilee is a momentous occasion for the United Kingdom, the Commonwealth and countries around the world — and for English Rose Tea Room owner Jo Gemmill.

“As an ex-pat living in Arizona for the past 21 years, it has always been important for me to keep a strong connection with my British roots,” Gemmill says. “Over the years, we have hosted many royal celebrations — including royal weddings and baby showers.”

English Rose Tea Room’s celebration will begin 11 a.m. June 2 with an authentic town crier announcing the Platinum Jubilee as he rings a hand-bell along Easy Street in Carefree. The crier will continue to act as the master of ceremonies throughout the weekend, which will include entertainment from actors portraying great British icons — such as James Bond, Sherlock Holmes, Mary Poppins, Harry Potter, David Bowie, John Lennon, Elton John and The Spice Girls.

Fountain Hills Saxophone Quartet will perform musical interludes throughout the festival while a tribute to the Queen and highlights of historical events during her reign will be on display, together with a book for guests’ comments — which will be sent on to Buckingham Palace after the festival. Platinum Jubilee and other iconic British memorabilia will also be available for purchase.

The festival coincides with Carefree Restaurant Week, with English Rose Tea Room offering a special menu that will include cottage pie, coronation chicken salad and Eton Mess — a favorite British dessert.

“This jubilee celebration is so important as it is likely the last time we can honor her Majesty during her lifetime,” Gemmill adds. “And this is certainly a lifetime achievement.”

Experience
Platinum Jubilee // June 2–5 // English Rose Tea Room // 201 Easy St., Suite 103, Carefree // 480-488-4812 // carefreetea.com