CHRISTMAS TEA AT THE OLD COURTHOUSE
Our teas always sell out – reserve your tickets today!
Join us for “Christmas Tea at the Old Courthouse” on Saturday, December 7, 2024, 3:00-5:00 P.M., at the Historic Henry County Courthouse, 1 East Main Street, Uptown Martinsville.
Attendees will enjoy tea, music, and refreshments. Tickets are $25 per person and must be purchased in advance by calling Ann Martin, Chair, at 276-340-9638, or visiting the Martinsville-Henry County Heritage Museum. Attendance is limited. All proceeds will benefit the Martinsville-Henry County Historical Society.
Before the 1830s, holiday celebrations in England were known for having wine and ale in excess. A counter movement started to try to sober up some of the holiday celebrations by introducing spiced black tea called “wassail” after the spiced German ale. All kinds of spices and dried fruits were mixed in to give it incredible flavors, but the most common were ginger, cinnamon, and orange peels. Great Tea Parties were orchestrated with cheap tickets available for everyone to attend, and these events grew to be more popular than the alcohol related celebrations. Creating a celebration around the drinking and sharing of tea eventually grew into a Christmas tradition in Europe. Americans took note and celebrated Christmas with similar gatherings. Across the world Afternoon Tea and Holiday Teas bring a touch of flavor, community, and festivity to the holiday season.
