Cow-riding races, grinning competitions and good old fashioned tea parties will all be the subject of a special exhibition marking the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee.

Happy and Glorious: Popular Royal Celebration and Commemoration in Richmond will open at the Museum of Richmond today, Saturday, February 4.

Marking the past 60 years of Queen Elizabeth II’s reign is something that has clearly captured the imagination of residents eager to pay homage to her highness.

The exhibition explores how people have celebrated royal events over the past 150 years.

Everything from feasts and festivals have been held in honour of royal marriages, coronations and jubilees over the years and the museum’s exhibition will cover these momentous occasions by displaying photographs and memorabilia from past celebrations.

Sue Barber, museum and exhibition curator, said: “The exhibition looks at how local people had celebrated royal events over the past 150, using memorabilia and documents. In other words, there will be many and varied souvenir items on display.

“I think the exhibition will bring back memories for many people and, as we are coming up to date to the 2011 royal wedding, it can bring back memories for people of all ages.

“Richmond does seem to enjoy royal celebrations.”

On display will be memorabilia produced to commemorate everything from the wedding of Edward, Prince of Wales, in 1863, to the nuptials of Prince William in 2011.

Events including the opening of Kew Bridge by the Prince of Wales in 1903 and royal visits to the borough will also be included.

For those who want to find out more about how Richmond celebrates big events, a booklet will be produced relating to the exhibition, a series of events including a Film Season, walks and talks will be hosted and there will even be Jubilee afternoon teas at the Petersham Hotel.

For details visit museumofrichmond.com.

Happy and Glorious: Popular Royal Celebration and Commemoration in Richmond, Museum of Richmond at the Old Town Hall, Whittaker Avenue, Saturday, February 4, to Saturday, June 23. Admission free, museum opens Tuesdays to Saturdays between 11am to 5pm.