Pearly Kings and Queens

I love the tradition of London's Pearly Kings and Queens but I have to admit I saw them for real for the first time in October at their annual Harvest Festival at St. Paul's Church in Covent Garden. The history of the Pearly Families dates back to 1875 and their aim is to raise money for charity. There seems to be a rise in interest in this London tradition, especially with Jack and Meg of the White Stripes dressing in Pearly costumes for the cover for their album Icky Thump. See photos of Pearly Kings and Queens and find out more about the history and where to find them.

• Pearly Kings and Queens
• _{Image: © Laura Porter (2007) licensed to About.com, Inc.}