De Montfort Students Sophie McManus, 19 and Hermione Ruff, 18
By laura elvin and gemma peplow
Humberstone Gate was filled with hundreds of party-goers waving flags and eating picnics as they watched the royal wedding on the big screen.
About 500 people gathered for the city centre celebrations – one of more than 30 street parties taking place across the county to mark the big day.
The largest was in Kibworth, where 2,000 people gathered to mark the occasion.
In Leicester, the crowd gasped as the bride's ivory dress was unveiled for the first time and giggled when William struggled to get the wedding ring on his bride's finger.
For many it was an unmissable chance to see history in the making, while for others it was a chance to spend a day with friends and family.
Phil Robertshaw, 56, of Anstey Heights, Leicester, said: "All the pomp and pageantry is what us Brits do best, isn't it?
"I've been glued to the screen since about 8.30am and would not miss it. It's a chance to celebrate our country and our heritage."
Dill Orton, 75, of Anstey, said: "The whole ceremony is lovely and it's great to be watching it in the city centre.
"Kate's dress is absolutely beautiful – not that you would expect anything else."
While the ceremony played out on the big screen, there was plenty to keep the younger revellers entertained, including stilt walkers.
Many youngsters had their face painted and made paper crowns in the arts and crafts marquees set up on the street.
Classmates Megan Alderson, 11, and Georgie Roux, 10, both from Barrow-upon-Soar, were wearing Kate and William masks they had made at home.
Megan said: "We are having so much fun down here today."
Georgie said: "My favourite part was William and Harry's outfits – I think they look really smart."
The festivities were replicated in streets, village halls, pubs and homes across the county.
About 2,000 people attended a party organised by the Coach and Horses pub, in Kibworth.
Landlord Andrew Southerden said: "It's been fantastic, just awesome.
"Everyone has been saying what a fantastic day they've had and people have been asking if we can do it again next year.
"We've got the Queen's diamond jubilee next year, so we'll see."
In Evesham Road, Rowley Fields, Leicester, residents held an afternoon street party after watching the wedding on TV in the morning.
Organiser Suresh Patel, 70, said: "It's the royal wedding so I wanted to do something in our street.
"I watched the wedding this morning and when William kissed Kate it was wonderful."
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