May 2-4.........It Starts

smirby's posterous

And, so it begins. The first long weekend of the summer. Victoria Day weekend, celebrating Queen Victoria's birthday.

This much-looked-forward-to holiday is most commonly referred to in Canada as May 2-4 (not only is it celebrating a May 24th birthday, but a case of beer in Canada is often called a 2-4, of which much is often consumed)

The pic above shows a highway leading from Toronto, jampacked with traffic, a common occurrence during the summer month weekends

This weekend is when people go to open up their cottages

I wonder if "opening" a cottage built out of two trolley cars is easier than just a regular cottage?

Of course, not everyone has a cottage, but does have the need to celebrate the warmer weather and get out of the city

Camping anyone? Tent?.....or.....

....trailer?

After that long, very tedious drive, one needs a way to release the pent up aggravation of all those crappy drivers clogging up the highway - if the weather suits, what better way than a plunge in some (still) freezing cold water?

Unfortunately, May 2-4 can be cold and rainy, in which case cramped quarters in dismal surroundings are necessary

Many do not go away for the whole weekend, but go off on little excursions - like picnics! (Canadians no longer wear ties and aprons on picnics however)

For the younger set, May 2-4 means one thing.....

beach parties

lots of beer....

and more partying....

For the rest of us, this is the weekend to tackle the weeds, plant some flowers, and hope for this........

Garden at Versailles

So Happy Birthday Queen Victoria - Thank you for this holiday!

Wishing everyone a safe, fun and sunny weekend!

♥


(most of the vintage pics from Shorpy.com)