Birmingham is abuzz with excitement as Aston Villa's 'magical' Europa League victory parade approaches. The city is gearing up to celebrate the club's first major European trophy since 1982, with thousands of fans expected to line the streets. The parade, beginning at 16:30 BST on Branston Street in the Jewellery Quarter, will be a spectacle to behold, with three open-top buses, including the claret bus carrying the players, and a trophy lift as the centrepiece. The atmosphere in Istanbul, where the final was held, was 'absolutely unreal', with goosebump-inducing chants and calls to prayer intermingling with the celebrations. The win has sparked a wave of joy and pride among fans, with some celebrating through the night and others planning their own versions of the open-top bus tour. The parade is a moment of history for the city, with businesses ready to welcome the players and a boost to the local economy expected. It's a time to be a Villa fan, with even Prince William offering his congratulations and support. However, not all fans were able to attend the parade, with some having to return to work or missing out due to travel constraints. The victory parade is a celebration of the club's success and a moment for the city to come together, with a sense of pride and joy that will be felt for years to come.
