We started the day at 7am in order to beat the crowds on our way to Windsor Palace. We decided to take an uber so we wouldn't be crammed in the tubes and buses. The uber ride took us through the countryside of London, and it was quite a change of sights. We went from seeing busy streets and buildings, to a view of green fields, trees, and beautiful countryside houses. Since some of the streets were closed approaching Windsor Castle, we were forced to walk for the last bit of our trip but were able to enjoy the countryside view and clean air just a little bit more.
Getting to the event we saw a gate with some guards, and prepared ourselves for the usual pat down and bag check that as Americans we are used to going through at any major event. To our surprise however, we simply greeted the guards and went right on in to what is known as "The Long Walk," the grass fields found before entering the castle. This is where the spectators were going to experience this Royal event.
It was very interesting to see how English people celebrate their national events, since many natives do like to celebrate these Royal events as they are a special and prominent part of their culture. Everyone was sitting on the grass enjoying the sunshine and sharing some food and drink. There were families with kids waving Union Jack flags, and groups of younger people celebrating with champagne and wine (It was 9am). Union Jack flags weren't the only flags we saw that day, there were plenty of Canadian flags and Australian flags, which was honestly quite surprising. Even the residents of far off countries under the Queen's reign came to witness the Royal Wedding.
Another very big difference between the English culture and American culture was in the way we approach our police. This was quite striking to me. When the English police walked by, I noticed most people waving hello to them and asking to take pictures. Many of the police officers even let some kids borrow their hats for the pictures and posed with big smiles on their faces. When groups of officers strolled by, they were cheered and applauded by the spectators and it was all part of the celebration. I don't think I have ever witnessed something like this in the States when it comes to our police officers. When we walk past them we try to stay away and minimize contact, and I'm sure if they were walking by in a group at an event they would receive very little, if any, recognition. The animosity towards our police officers in America has grown a lot lately, and this behavior towards English police officers really showed that that is not the common attitude towards authority throughout the world.
The warm day went by with laughs and smiles from everyone in the crowd, and we met a wonderful English couple who shared their blanket with us and talked to us about the Royal family members and English culture throughout the event. During the wedding, the energy was electric. People cheered when Royal family members and celebrities were shown on the screens that were set up on the grass. When the Queen was finally shown, the crowd was especially ecstatic. The ceremony was beautiful, and everyone's excited energy made this event an even better experience.
After the ceremony the crowd cheered as the newlyweds shared their kiss on the steps of Windsor castle, and then we were lucky enough to see them ride by in their carriage during the procession. It was definitely a day to remember, and I personally feel very lucky to be able to say that I witnessed this very special moment in history.
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