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If we ever make it to 500 we hope someone throws us a birthday party of this calibre. Hampton Court Palace will open for three evenings of festivities over the Easter weekend, with each event culminating in a 3D sound and light show. The specially commissioned projections will be beamed onto the south Facade of the palace, telling the story of its half millennium. Period music will accompany the display, and a spectacular fireworks display will round things off. Pop-up bars and food stands will sell everything from Tudor roast beef to champagne.
Those who visit in the daytime will also be able to join in the celebrations. Five specially created royal carriages will be parked in Hampton Court Palace's driveway for Easter weekend to allow visitors a royal's eye view of the magnificent residence. William Shakespeare and some dangerous jousting knights are among the characters from the palace's colourful history who'll be performing, and the Tudor Kitchens will be cooking spit roast meat which will fill the café's sandwiches. In true party spirit the (replica) Tudor wine fountain will be flowing, too.
Tickets for the evening event must be bought separately in advance on the Hampton Court Palace website. All daytime events are included in the usual price of admission.