Islington pulls out all the stops for bumper Jubilee weekend of fun

Thirtythree street parties will be held over the Queen's Diamond Jubilee Weekend thanks to Islington's Council's pledge to 'put bunting before red tape' for party planners.

Many Islington residents took advantage of the council's 'no fuss' application procedure to get their party plans filed ahead of the 15 April deadline, meaning they could look forward to kicking back and celebrating together - rather than filling out long, boring forms.

This year's 'Summer of Celebration' sees the coincidence of this year's Big Lunch (3 June), The Queen's Diamond Jubilee weekend (2 - 5 June) and the Olympic and Paralympic Games (27 July - 12 August and 29 August - 9 September). It's expected to lead to a party bonanza for residents.

Cllr Catherine West, Leader of Islington Council, said: "Nothing brings the community together like a street party so I am delighted so many residents are celebrating over the Queen's Diamond Jubilee Weekend.

"We've cut red tape to make the process easier for our residents.

"Now all party planners and guests have to worry about is the weather!"

Hatchard Road, N19, party planner Col Brian Kay OBE, Chairman of Islington Chinese Association, said: "Of all the London boroughs, Islington leads the way in welcoming people from all over the world.

"So it's fitting that our unique, multicultural Queen's Diamond Jubilee celebration will bring together residents from a broad spectrum of faiths and backgrounds."

As well as a treat of festive foods from across the globe,  the Islington Chinese Association party will feature a Lion Dance and Tai-chi for a thousand and many other activities from 12 to 4pm, Saturday 2 June.

Most residents' street parties do not require a licence if alcohol and food is not sold and there is no loud music being played.

Other celebrations include the joint Alsen Day Centre/ Lennox House/St Anne's Nursing Home Diamond Jubilee Street Party, Durham Road, N4, on Friday 1 June 2011, 12.30 to 6pm.  Entertainment includes The Whittington Steel Band, The Legendary Dave 'Elvis' Holman, David Oliver and The Liverpool Sounds and the Finsbury Pearly King and Queen.

Over the holiday weekend - and the half term that follows - Jubilee-themed activities for children are taking place in all Islington libraries.

And on 6 June, Central Library hosts a free tea dance for adults from 2-4pm.

A list of road closures over the Queen's Diamond Jubilee Weekend can be found here:

http://www.islington.gov.uk/services/parking-roads/roadmaintenance/Pages/generic.aspx