Cayman will celebrate the Queen’s Birthday with a ceremonial parade on Saturday and a holiday on Monday.
Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II was 79 on 21 April.
Britain observes the birthday on the third Saturday in June. According to some Websites, the Queen chose June for her ‘official’ birthday so that there would be better weather for any observances.
Locally, the Queen’s Birthday Parade was traditionally held on the Monday holiday. Last year, however, the day was changed so that it now aligns with the UK.
The ceremony, which includes presentation of honours and awards, takes place outside the Legislative Assembly Building on Fort Street.
Members of the public who wish to enjoy the pomp and spectacle should arrive by 9.45am. Seating is for invited guests, but roped-off areas provide numerous vantage points.
The parade is scheduled to leave George Town Police Station at 9.45 and arrive at the LA five minutes later. Various dignitaries will be taking their places, with the Governor, Mr. Bruce Dinwiddy; and Mrs. Dinwiddy arriving at 9.59am.
The first Royal Salute is at 10am, triggering formal proceedings. The customary format includes a 21-gun salute and three cheers for the Queen, with uniformed participants removing their headgear.
The Governor will present honours and awards announced at last year’s Birthday Parade or at New Year’s. Chief Secretary George McCarthy will read the Birthday Honours for this year.
The ceremony is generally over by 10.45am, but spectators and honourees tend to linger to enjoy the festive atmosphere.
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