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Queen Elizabeth II centenary marked with exhibitions and memorial plans

cultureApr 21, 202658338

On April 21, 2026, the Royal Collection opened Queen Elizabeth II: Her Life in Style, displaying a Norman Hartnell blue crinoline-skirted, belted gown worn at Princess Margaret’s 1960 wedding to Antony Armstrong-Jones. Officials unveiled plans for a national memorial and a program of tributes across the United Kingdom to mark the centenary. A commemorative coin and other souvenirs went on sale in London on April 17, 2026, and King Charles III reflected on personal memories, calling Elizabeth his "darling Mama" and recalling a marmalade sandwich with Paddington Bear in his tribute.

Key Highlights

Royal Collection opens Queen Elizabeth II: Her Life in Style on April 21, 2026
Officials unveiled plans for a national memorial and nationwide tributes
Commemorative coin and souvenirs went on sale in London before the centenary
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