Tea and the social structures, customs and etiquette related to “taking tea” have evolved over the centuries beginning in China in 2737 B.C. when some leaves fell into the Emperor’s boiled drinking water. The British, however, are mostly credited for their tea drinking finesse. The Brits have been consuming the stuff for the past 350 years and now is a daily part of the British way of life.

“In order to “take tea” properly, one must be educated on the subject of tea and all of the social customs involved. This tea and lecture will help to prepare participants for proper afternoon English teas the Café’ Alcazar will be hosting daily during the exhibition Dressing Downton™, which is coming to the Lightner Museum this fall”, said Lightner Museum Educator and Program Coordinator Elizabeth Graham.

The event will be presented by Ms. Graham in coordination with the Alcazar Café’. The Garden Club of St. Augustine will assist in educating participants on the proper methods of setting a table and decorating with flowers for such occasions. Teas from Cultivate Tea & Spice co. will be featured.

“As Café Alcazar gears up to host daily afternoon teas this fall, we are pleased to have the opportunity to showcase our expertise at May’s Tea & Talk. I have been traveling the southeastern United States, visiting various tea houses and am very excited to bring similar experiences to Café’ Alcazar and to St. Augustine.” – Sean Thompson, Manager of Café Alcazar.

Cost for this event is $50 per person and includes an array of teas, tea sandwiches, scones and cakes. Champagne may be purchased for an additional $5 per glass.

The Lightner Museum is a non-profit cultural institution sustained by the generous support of individuals, businesses and sponsors. Donations are appreciated.

For more information visit about the tea and talk, “The Art of Taking Tea”, please visit www.lightnermuseum.org/tea-talk. For more information on Café’ Alcazar’s English Afternoon Teas beginning this fall visit www.lightnermuseum.org/high-tea. For more information about Cultivate Tea & Spice co. visit www.cultivateteaandspice.com. For more information about the Garden Club of St. Augustine visit www.gardenclubofstaugustine.org.

“The Art of Taking Tea” is funded in part by the Tourist Development Council of St. Johns County and the Florida Division of Cultural Affairs.