Queen Victoria.

Happy Victoria Day! Referred to as “the May 2-4 weekend” by many of us across Canada, this long weekend in May was created to celebrate Queen Victoria. 

The British queen was born on May 24, 1819. Victoria Day was declared a Canadian holiday by the government in 1845. At that time, it was celebrated with picnics, parades, sporting tournaments, fireworks and cannon salutes.

When Queen Victoria died in 1901, Canada’s parliament officially named the holiday Victoria Day. It was decided that the day would be celebrated on May 24th each year (or on May 25th if the 24th fell on a Sunday).1

We understand all of the traditions of this long weekend in Canada may not be doable this year, so here are some ideas to begin a few fun new ones. 

A Royal Cocktail made with Pelee Island Winery's Lola Sparkling Secco VQA Ontario in a flute glass with grapefruit slice.

Cheers to the Royal

What exactly makes a cocktail a royal(e) one? It dates back to the 17th century and encompasses any cocktail that includes Champagne or sparkling wine to top it off. You can read the full history here in Punch’s article. 

Our Pelee Island Lola Sparkling Secco VQA can be used to top off your royal beverage. Of course, we think it’s very regal on its own too.

Share your royal creations with us on social media by tagging @peleewinery

Dressing the Part

Women wearing crown holding a Royal cocktail made with Pelee Island Winery's Lola Secco Sparkling VQA Ontario and fresh fruit.

If you’re going to celebrate like a royal, a crown is in order. No matter your age, crafting up these crowns provides some fun.

Cut and Paste – use scraps of holiday wrapping paper or construction paper for these simple Paper Crowns.

Origami – same as above for paper requirements, Origami Crowns

Feeling Floral – paper, faux, fancy or dandelions from the yard, here are the simple basics for making Flower Crowns

A Royal Binge

Movie night sign.

We polled our team and came up with these royal-themed favourites for your holiday weekend viewing pleasure.

Series + Documentaries on Netflix

Victoria 

The Crown

The Last Czar

The Royal House of Windsor

Movies

The Young Victoria 

Victoria and Abdul

The Royal Tenenbaum’s 

The King’s Speech

Princess Bride

Whether you call it Victoria Day or May 2-4, treat yourself royally and have a safe and happy long weekend.

Cheers!

Pssttt… Don’t forget while you’re here to sign up for our Birthday Club and receive a $20 Gift Voucher for your birthday!

1. CBC Canada