This summer, visitors to London can enjoy the atmosphere and the celebrations without a ticket to the 2012 Olympic Games. With much hype being placed on the celebrated events, there is certainly a longer list of more affordable, if not free, events to participate in. From live screenings of the games in London’s famed parks to free festivals city-wide, an Olympic ticket is not necessary to an incredible summer holiday across the pond.

British Street Parties for the Olympic Torch

The Olympic Games begin on July 27, but the festivities will begin months earlier. When the Olympic torch arrives on the shores of the United Kingdom from Greece in May, a series of street parties will take place across the country as designated torchbearers carry the iconic symbol of the Olympics on a 70-day journey through hundreds of towns before reaching the stadium in London’s East End.

Queen Elizabeth II’s Diamond Jubilee

Coinciding with the 2012 games, Queen Elizabeth II will be celebrating 60 years on the throne of Great Britain, Northern Ireland the Commonwealth nations. In June, over 1,000 boats are meant to participate in a fantastic flotilla down the River Thames, carrying the Queen and her family in what is expected to be one of the largest parades of its kind in 350 years.

Sporting Events outside the Stadium

Marathons and road cycling races will take place in the streets of London, meaning they can be watched without tickets and for free. According to an Yahoo News article, both races begin and finish on The Mall – with sweeping views of Buckingham Palace and St James Park, it is a great location to catch a glimpse of the races and of London's remarkable cityscape.

Watch the Games on the Big Screen

Everybody knows that watching the game on a big screen may not be ideal, and certainly not the same as being there to witness them first hand. But if you have to watch the games from afar, there will be no better place to do so then in Trafalgar Square, Hyde Park and Victoria Park. Expect energetic crowds, live music and great food.

Free events!

In addition to the Olympic Games, millions visitors on cheap flights to London will attend the city's free events during the summer months. In June and July, the River of Music festival will feature free music performances representing all 205 nations participating in the Olympic Games. And, as always, when you need a break from the hustle and bustle of these incredible events, London’s museums, churches and green spaces remain free and open to the public.

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Source: Yahoo News

Photo Credit: Nick Papa (author)