Cheers: Her Majesty’s Diamond Jubilee

You’ve probably seen articles about Prince Harry’s official (dancing) tour of the Bahamas and Princess Kate’s countless, flawless appearances, so you know that the British are marking Queen Elizabeth’s Diamond Jubilee this year. The celebration of Her Majesty’s 60 years on the throne will culminate this weekend with several events that make up the “Central Weekend,” including the Themes Jubilee Pageant (did you know there is a Royal Bardge?), a concert at Buckingham Palace and one of those balcony appearances that we’ve all grown to expect.

While in college, I studied abroad in England, so I’ve always had an affinity for British culture. But whether you are an anglophile or not, why not celebrate with the Brits by marking the Queen’s Jubilee in Central PA?  Here are a few of my suggestions, let me know if you have other UK-inspired destinations, recipes or traditions!

1. Black Gryphon – Eating some of the Welsh food on this menu and finishing your meal with a pint would be the perfect way to toast Queen Elizabeth. Try the rarebit – a beer and cheese sauce  - because, really, where else have you seen this Welsh dish on the menu? The extensive beer list- both draft and bottled - is also worth the trip. And the restaurant’s motto is worth repeating, “Be Strange – Eat Fresh!”
2. Afternoon tea – there is nothing more British than a cuppa. This would be a fun  and easy event to host at home, but if you are looking to attend an afternoon tea, try the Victorian Lady Bug Tea Room in East Berlin. The afternoon tea at Lady Bug is very hearty, including hot and cold hors d’oeurves,  soup, scones, salad and dessert. Oh, and clotted cream… I should have just had the clotted cream and a spoon, but I digress. Lady Bug is not a dainty or fussy place, so if you are trying your first tea, it’s a great place to start.  
3. Make yourself a Pimm’s cup cocktail (Home 231 has one on their current menu). For an easy at-home recipe, just mix Pimm’s with champagne for a Pimm’s Royal Cup. Cheers!

So, chivvy along and find a way to celebrate Her Majesty’s 60 years on the throne.