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The U.K. will be celebratingKing Charles III’s upcoming coronation with a bank holiday.
Prime MinisterRishi Sunakannounced Sunday that the holiday will be onMonday, May 8, 2023, concluding a three-day weekend that begins with a crowning ceremony for the new monarch, 73, at London’s Westminster Abbey on Saturday, May 6.
“The coronation of a new monarch is a unique moment for our country,” he said. “In recognition of this historic occasion, I am pleased to announce an additional bank holiday for the whole United Kingdom next year.”
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Sunakbecame the U.K.’s first British Asian premierin October with the historic appointment.
Buckingham Palaceannounced the date of King Charles' coronationlast month afterThe Mail on Sundayreported that he isdeparting from tradition with a scaled-back ceremonyconsisting of an hour-long ceremony before 2,000 guests.
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Part of a monarchy tradition, the King’s late mother,Queen Elizabeth II, was also honored with a bank holiday followingher coronationon June 2, 1953. Manythought Charles would choose the same dateas a tribute.
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King Charles immediately succeeded his mother after shedied at age 96on Sept. 8. Her death followed her husband of 73 years,Prince Philip, whodied at age 99in June 2021.
source: people.com