Top tips on how to celebrate Shakespeare

Haven’t yet figured out how you’re going to celebrate the Bard’s 400^th death anniversary, or (more likely) haven’t thought about it whatsoever? Not to worry, here are a few ways you can commemorate the greatest man in English Literature (look out for coined Shakespeare phrases along the way!).

Go full-on English and host a pub (or Ye Olde Inne) crawl. Make your way through pubs with Tudor-y names such as King’s Head, Duke of York or Coach and Horses and drink old favourites such as whiskey and gin – not for the faint hearted – or cider and ale which might make you the laughing stock but hey, at least they taste good! Drop in some Tudor-style hats and/or famous costumes from his plays (I’m thinking red-handed Lady Macbeth in her nightie) if you’re feeling brave.

Make your way through pubs with Tudor-y names such as King’s Head, Duke of York or Coach and Horses and drink old favourites such as whiskey and gin

As good luck would have it, there are alternative celebrations, including ones that don’t necessarily include alcohol. Don’t wait forever and a day! Gather some friends round and book your tickets to Stratford-upon-Avon. As Shakespeare’s birthplace, the place is steeped in history and with one fell swoop, you’ve experienced as much Shakespeare as you can in a moment.

Set up a movie night. Top up on some cheap snacks by making your own popcorn with your own kernels (very Tudor)

If you’re eaten out of house and home (i.e. don’t have the money), it’s not the be all and end all. Set up a movie night. Top up on some cheap snacks by making your own popcorn with your own kernels (very Tudor). Then, invite some friends round or make it housemates only. Rent/find online (let’s be honest, it will probably be the latter) any and all Shakespeare adaptations you like and get ready for a live-long day movie marathon! If that sounds a tad dull however, there’s always Romeo & Juliet – you know, the one with DiCaprio in it. That counts, right!?

Image Credits: lenses2005 / Flickr (Header)