Tens of thousands of royal supporters are gathering along the streets of London to mark Queen Elizabeth's Platinum Jubilee, starting four days of celebrations to honor her 70 years on the throne.

Millions across Britain and the world are expected to join the festivities in honor of the 96-year-old, the government said.

"Thank you to everyone who has been involved in convening communities, families, neighbors and friends to mark my Platinum Jubilee, in the United Kingdom and across the Commonwealth," the monarch said in a statement.

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"I continue to be inspired by the goodwill shown to me, and hope that the coming days will provide an opportunity to reflect on all that has been achieved during the last 70 years, as we look to the future with confidence and enthusiasm."

CLICK BELOW TO EXPLORE OUR PLATINUM JUBILEE PHOTO GALLERY

Supporters of the British monarchy on Thursday gathered on the grand roads leading up to Buckingham Palace, cheering the military marching bands and waving Union Jack flags.

The arrival of the first senior royals for the festivities - Kate, the wife of Prince William, her three young children and Camilla, the wife of the heir to the throne, Prince Charles - were met with loud cheers.

However, at least two people were arrested after running out from behind the barriers and laying down in front of a marching band. 

The Jubilee celebrations began with a military parade called 'Trooping the Colour' (READ MORE BELOW) in central London, followed by gun salutes, while in the evening beacons will be lit across the country and the Commonwealth to mark the occasion. 

However, in a sign of the monarch's advancing years and diminishing health, which have led her to cancel some engagements, Elizabeth's personal involvement in the events will be limited.

Other senior royals, including son and heir Prince Charles, 73, and his eldest son Prince William, 39, will carry out ceremonial duties on the queen's behalf.

Her grandson Prince Harry, who lives in Los Angeles with his American wife Meghan, will attend the parade but will be absent when the royal family gathers on the palace balcony to watch a fly-past by Royal Air Force planes after the parade.

What is 'Trooping the Color?'

The Queen's Birthday Parade, known as "Trooping the Colour," has been going on for more than 260 years.

Held in central London, more than 1,200 soldiers take part in the march along with military bands.

Queen Elizabeth II has attended every parade during her reign with the exception of one in 1955. In the last two years smaller ceremonies were held due to COVID-19 restrictions. 

This year because of her mobility issues, the queen, for the first time, took the salute from soldiers and officers on the balcony of Buckingham Palace.