This weekend, over 10,000 street parties will be held across Britain in celebration of the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee, which marks the 60th anniversary of Queen Elizabeth’s reign. That’s double the number of parties than were held last year in connection with Prince William and Kate Middleton’s wedding.

I’ve never been to a British street party, but man, would I like to go to one. Streets are closed. Long tables run down the length of entire streets with chairs on either side – like the biggest dinner party in the world. There’s always tablecloths and cakes and ales, pork pies, sausage rolls and tea sandwiches. Music fills the streets. Union jack bunting is festively hung. It’s just that idyllic.

Inspired? Well, you can throw an authentic British street party stateside. Check out BBC America’s tips.