Held in partnership with Arts Society King, Gin Joint and Jazz happens May 4
Township of King, Ont. — Get ready to experience the glamour and excitement of the Prohibition era at an upcoming speakeasy event, 1920s Gin Joint and Jazz, where guests will enjoy an enchanting evening of gin tasting and jazz at the King Heritage and Cultural Centre (KHCC) on Saturday, May 4.
Held in partnership with Arts Society King (ASK), the KHCC will transform into a 1920s speakeasy, complete with dim lighting, flappers, dapper gents and the infectious energy of the Charleston. Guests will have the opportunity to taste a selection of gins guided by a connoisseur, followed by live jazz performances featuring King's own "Diva in the Rough," Catherine Hughes.
Organizers encourage 1920s-style dress or, if you don’t have access to that style of clothing, come dressed as your best.
The fun takes place Saturday, May 4 from 6:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. at KCHH which is located at 2920 King Road in King City. Tickets are available at artssocietyking.ca/events/ginjointandjazz.
There are two ticket options: gin tasting, jazz music and dance tickets are $70 plus HST while jazz music and dance only tickets cost $35 plus HST.
The temperance movement in Canada emerged in the 19th century, advocating for the moderation or abstention from alcohol consumption. Influenced by similar movements in the United States and Europe, the movement eventually led to the implementation of prohibition in various provinces, starting with Prince Edward Island in 1901.
However, enforcement varied widely and the federal government ultimately repealed national prohibition laws in 1920. The prohibition era in Canada was characterized by illicit alcohol production and smuggling—also known as bootlegging—leading to the eventual abandonment of prohibition by most provinces by the late 1920s and early 1930s.
This event kicks off Museum Month and, as a member of the Ontario Museum Association, KHCC has a jam-packed month of activities to celebrate. This includes heritage rug hooking and printing workshops for adults and kids, a comic book program for kids and an artifact roadshow and workshop to teach people how to care for their collections at home.
These workshops will run throughout May and residents can register for them at townshipofking.perfectmind.com.
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Mayor Steve Pellegrini
"The Prohibition Era was a fascinating time in Canadian history, marked by underground speakeasies and a flourishing jazz scene. We're excited to bring a taste of that era to the King Heritage and Cultural Centre, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the sights, sounds and tastes of the roaring twenties."
About the King Heritage and Cultural Centre: The King Heritage and Cultural Centre is dedicated to preserving and celebrating the history and culture of King Township. Through exhibitions, events and educational programs, the KHCC aims to engage the community and promote an appreciation for local heritage.
About Arts Society King: Arts Society King is a not-for-profit volunteer organization established in 2005. ASK’s office and gallery space are located in the King Heritage and Cultural Centre in King City.
For regular updates on Township programs and events, follow the official corporate social media channels on X, Facebook and Instagram or visit king.ca.
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Media Contact
Township of King
Jason Ballantyne, Communications Officer
Township of King | Phone: 905-833-5321 | Email: media@king.ca