Thanks to the five-hour time difference — or maybe just grumpy indifference — many of you will be asleep in your beds when Prince Wills finally marries his Kate this Friday. But for those of us who just can’t resist a real-life fairytale, there are a variety of events happening in and around Toronto that promise to make the day a memorable one, even if we aren’t able to witness the big balcony kiss in person.
CBC
This event actually encourages people to show up in a wedding gown, bridesmaid dress or top hat. Enjoy free tea and scones as you watch the broadcast with actual broadcasters. And if that doesn’t sell you, then a prize for best dress surely will.
Where: Canadian Broadcasting Centre Atrium, 250 Front Street West
When: April 29, 5 a.m. – 10 a.m.
Admission: FREE
O&B Canteen
If you’re the type who doesn’t want to get up early for the festivities but still wants to grab a bite of that, er, delicious British food, then O&B Canteen is for you. They’re be serving up two royally-inspired sandwiches called “Buckingham Butties” at the grab-and-go counter all week long.
Where: 330 King Street West
When: Monday April 25 to Friday April 29.
Price: $4.29 + tax
Duke of Westminster
This event replays the wedding on a giant screen later in the day, so you can laugh at those early-birds while sipping on your William & Kate-inspired cocktail and listening to the soothing bagpiper. Plus, you get a chance to win an iPad.
Where: Duke of West Minister, Grand Hall, First Canadian Place, 77 Adelaide Street West
When: April 29, 4-7 p.m.
Admission: $45
Acheson’s
Britannic fanatics will love this Orangeville retailer’s viewing party. Besides munching on authentic English snacks like Blighty’s chocolate and Rich’s biscuits whilst reclining on a Union Jack ottoman, guests will receive a certificate stating where they were for the so-called “wedding of the century,” as well as a coupon for 15 per cent off their next Acheson’s purchase.
Where: 78 First Street, just off Highway 10 in Orangeville
When: April 29 at 5 a.m.
Admission: FREE
Good Food Festival
Just because most of us weren’t invited to the actual wedding doesn’t mean we can’t have our cake and eat it too. Which is exactly why two sugar artists will attempt to recreate the royal wedding cake after the first photographs are released. Smash your piece into your lover’s face to really feel like you were a part of the festivities.
Where: The International Centre, 6900 Airport Road, Mississauga
When: May 1, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
Admission: $14
Your Own Home
Let’s face it: nothing beats the comfort of your own home (especially if it means crawling out of bed at such an ungodly hour). Besides the obligatory “cuppa tea,” indulge yourself with Tim Hortons’ Royal Wedded Bliss ice cream, inspired by Prince William’s chocolate-biscuit groom cake. And if the sugary goodness — the cake or the ceremony — turns out to be too much for your stomach, you can always use one of these royal wedding sick bags.