Queen Elizabeth had witnessed many things during her long reign, but in 2003, she came face-to-face with a puzzling sight at her grandson Prince William’s 21st birthday party. The event, held at Windsor Castle, had an “out of Africa” theme, complete with extravagant decorations and entertainment. However, it was a specific element that left the Queen confused – a vodka luge in the shape of an elephant’s head.
Party planner Johnny Roxburgh recalled the moment on Channel 5’s The Royal Borough: Kensington and Chelsea, stating that when the Queen saw someone pouring vodka into the elephant’s head, she turned to him and asked, “What is that?” Roxburgh, taken aback by the situation, replied, “Ma’am, it’s a vodka luge.” Reflecting on the interaction, Roxburgh humorously added, “I could have said it was a tin of Brasso, because she just looked at me confused and said, ‘Hmmm…'”
Roxburgh previously shared details about the birthday celebration with Tatler magazine in 2018, describing William as “wonderful to work with” and “charming beyond belief.” The party included various impressive elements, such as full-size elephants made from palm husks and theatrical table centerpieces. However, it was the vodka luge in the shape of an elephant’s head that seemed to capture the Queen’s attention most.
The guest list for the event was equally star-studded, with notable attendees like Camilla Parker-Bowles, who would go on to marry Prince Charles two years later. Renowned actor Rowan Atkinson and late socialite Tara Palmer-Tomkinson were also present, along with 300 other guests. While it remains unclear if Kate Middleton, William’s future wife, attended the party, it is believed that the two were dating at the time, as they had met while studying at the University of St. Andrews.
Looking back, one can only imagine the stark contrast between Queen Elizabeth’s 21st birthday celebration in 1947 and her grandson’s extravagant affair in 2003. It is safe to say that a vodka luge was likely not part of the festivities when she herself reached that milestone. Nevertheless, despite her bemusement, the Queen’s interaction with the vodka luge only added to the whimsical nature of Prince William’s birthday bash, showcasing the lighthearted side of the royal family.
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