With the funeral of Queen Elizabeth II set for Monday, the City of Windsor has provided additional information on how it will mark her passing.
The Queen was 96-years-old when she died Thursday at her summer castle at Balmoral, Scotland. Her 70-year reign was the longest in British history.
A ten-day mourning period was declared in Britain, culminating in the Queen's funeral Monday at Westminster Abbey in London.
"For many, The Queen was a fixture throughout our entire lives. Her lifetime of service will be honoured and treasured, recognized and debated in the coming days and weeks," said Mayor Drew Dilkens. "The Queen participated in and lived through such significant moments in our shared history, and her contributions cannot be overstated."
The City of Windsor has scheduled several events to remember Elizabeth's life and service. The late queen visited Windsor three times, in 1951 as a princess and 1959 and 1984 as queen.
Windsor City Hall will be lit up in purple every night until after the funeral on Monday. A book of condolences is available in the lobby for people to sign. The City has also called for submissions of artwork and poetry for inclusion. Commemorative window displays will be placed in the windows of City Hall by Friday.
A public screening of the funeral, broadcast by the BBC, is scheduled to begin at 5:45 a.m. Monday in Charles Clark Square downtown. The screening is being organized by the City and Element Entertainment/NXT Level. Those wanting to watch the funeral are asked to bring lawn chairs.
A public memorial service will be celebrated at 6 p.m. Monday at All Saints Anglican Church, near City Hall. This continues a tradition observed through the years with the passing of British royalty.
"This tradition will continue with a ceremony to include a procession into the church led by the Essex and Kent Scottish Regiment, evening prayers led by Reverend Robert Clifford, music from Windsor Classic Chorale with organist David Carle and soloist Jennifer Swanson, and remarks from dignitaries," read a statement from the City.
The City has designed street banners honouring Elizabeth, which will be installed in select neighbourhoods and business improvement areas starting Wednesday, September 21.
At Museum Windsor's Francois Baby House, visitors can see the exhibit "The Road to Platinum: Celebrating Queen Elizabeth’s 70 Years on the Throne", during museum hours. Free guided tours of the exhibition will be offered on September 15 and September 23 at noon, and on October 1 at 2:00 p.m. The guided tours are also free, though guests are encouraged to reserve a spot by calling (519) 253-1812.
