British Pubs Are Allowed to Stay Open Two Hours Later During the Queen's Platinum Jubilee

Not that there's anything wrong with "going to a bar" as Americans often do, but for Brits, going to the pub is so much more: It's ingrained in British culture. Looking for proof? From June 2 to 5, Queen Elizabeth II will be celebrating her Platinum Jubilee, marking 70 years on the throne. The occasion will be celebrated in plenty of ways, including an extra government holiday and a baking contest. But that's not all: As an additional treat to all of her loyal subjects, pubs will be allowed to stay open later than their usual hours.

For the nights of Thursday, June 2 through Saturday, June 4, pubs in England and Wales that are typically open until 11 p.m. (a standard closing time for many licensed establishments) will be allowed to stay open until 1 a.m. under a government proposal.

Kit Malthouse — the UK's minister for policing (and a man with an apt last name for this situation) — stated the change would be allowed under Section 172 of the Licensing Act 2003, which permits extended hours at moments of "exceptional international, national or local significance," according to the Independent.

Previous examples of times when pubs have been granted similar extensions of their hours include the Queen's 90th birthday, the wedding of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, and the World Cup.

"The platinum jubilee is a truly historic occasion, and it is right that the country should mark this celebration in a special way," Malthouse was quoted as saying. "This extension will enable families, friends and communities across England and Wales to raise a glass to toast Her Majesty the Queen and mark her incredible service to our country."

The extension will also apply to an establishment's entertainment license as well, according to The Daily Mail. So not only will Brits be able to get drunk later than usual, they can also be loud as hell as they do it. One can only assume the Queen will be seeking to spend in quieter digs.