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A Christmas Tea with Mr. Dickens "One of the most delightful traditions of Victorian Society was the practice of taking tea." -Henry James
According to "The Book of Tea" (Famaria 1992), the act of afternoon tea was created by Anna, the Seventh Duchess of Bedford, in the year 1840 as "a way to quell the inevitable hunger pangs between lunch and dinner" and "became so popular among affluent classes that it...became one of the mainstays of the British way of life." As the tradition grew, traditional food items began to develop also. The Earl of Sandwich, created a dish by putting various items from meats, cheeses, etc... between two pieces of bread...creating what was known as the "Tea Sandwich" (A forerunner of today's larger version, the "Sandwich.") Tea was initially served between three and four o’clock. It was normally taken in the gardens, dining room, or parlor. The household’s finest china, sterling and linens were utilized in carrying out this ritual. The menu normally included tea sandwiches, cakes, scones, cookies, and assorted pastries and of course, Devonshire cream. (From which the term “Cream Tea” was born.) As the tea tradition expanded from the Victorian elite to the working class, the High Tea was developed. High Tea was a combination of afternoon tea and the evening supper; the tradition soon became the main meal for many. The name comes from the fact that the tea was taken at the high time of day, four to five o’clock and it was enjoyed from high stools in the tea shops or standing; at a corner stall, a buffet table or a counter. Today, however, the term High Tea refers to a much more elaborate affair.
Elaborate period holiday décor reminiscent of days of yore further sets the holiday mood as period clad wait staff hover to meet the guests every need. The bill of fare includes a completely traditional English menu for both the Luncheon Tea and the High Tea. Period Holiday music by “Suzanne and Jim” adds further Victorian enhancements to the event. Their lush period costumes, antique instruments, harmonious music and lively singing would entice even a scrooge into the Holiday Spirit.
Saturday’s Tea will feature a surprise visit from Santa Claus. Little tikes can bring their list. It’s a sure way to avoid the chance of Santa running out of any specific toy by getting it in early. The teas have become a Holiday tradition for many. One has only to experience them to understand why. Seating is limited to the first 110 guests per tea. This year’s new location promises to further enhance the entire event. Three Teas Celebrating the Dickens Christmas Show and Festivals Dickens Luncheon Tea
Dickens High Tea
Dickens Luncheon Tea
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