Queens Hotel marks D-Day in style: Residents are invited to go and see the Queens Hotel mark the 75th anniversary of D-Day with a stylish, patriotic salute to veterans.
On Wednesday June 5 from 9.30pm you can see the Queens Hotel in Southsea as you have never seen her before, when she is lit-up to honour the D-Day veterans.
The hotel in Osborne Road, Southsea, which has welcomed royalty and VIPs during her fascinating history, will be used as the backdrop for a dazzling D-Day inspired light display which will happen each night from Wednesday until Saturday June 8.
During the Second World War, General de Gaulle stayed at the hotel for a long period and he could often be found on the terrace staring longingly towards France. Other wartime visitors included Sir Winston Churchill and General Eisenhower.
Owner Farid Yeganeh explained: “Portsmouth has been proud to be the focus of the world’s attention as we commemorate the 75th anniversary of the D-Day landings.
“With the Queens Hotel occupying such a prominent location adjacent to where all the celebratory activities will be happening, we wanted to play our part and light-up the heart of Southsea.”
During the day on Wednesday June 5, Portsmouth will host the UK’s national commemoration event, for veterans and invited guests, including heads of state.
A flypast by the Red Arrows and the departure of MV Boudicca carrying 300 D-Day veterans to Normandy will follow in the afternoon and early evening before the Queens Hotel pays homage with a dazzling light show as night falls.
The Queens Hotel will be hosting its own programme of events for the public to enjoy.
On Wednesday June 5, there will be a 1940’s inspired garden party starting at noon with DJ Carl Wood spinning the discs until 7.45pm when the Southsea Belles will boogie-woogie until 9.30pm when the D-Day light show happens.
On Thursday June 6, DJ Carl Wood will be back from noon until 7.45pm, when once again the Southsea Belles will take to the stage until the D-Day light show is repeated at 9.30pm.
On Friday June 7, Savoy Affair will be performing live from 7.45pm, following D J Carl Wood’s from 12 noon. The entertainment will conclude with D-Day light show.
Finally, on Saturday June 8 Just Jazz will be performing – please check the Queens Hotel on social media for updates.
About the Queens Hotel
Southsea’s grandest hotel is undergoing a £7m refurbishment project that will safeguard her Edwardian splendour for future generations to enjoy. A painstaking work programme is revealing the original beauty of the building and bringing facilities right up to date.
Throughout the summer, the Queens Hotel runs a Garden Party programme with live music in their beautiful garden. For more details go to www.queenshotelportsmouth.com
