It’s tea time at the Hormel Historic Home. In many ways, the HHH is a traditional preserved landmark, but we are also modern in our ways.

In planning our annual holiday events, we try to offer opportunities for people of all ages to enjoy the house while it showcases a vast array of holiday décor. Whether a babe in arms or someone who has seen many Christmas seasons go by, everyone will be able to enjoy our festive and historic charm.

The upcoming holiday tea is one of those events that has ageless appeal. Complete with sweet and savory food, warm beverages and live entertainment, the event will allow guests to stroll through rooms filled with holiday décor that will inspire and enchant.

According to www.afternoontea.co.uk, the tradition of having afternoon tea is credited to, “Anna, the 7th Duchess of Bedford because she suffered from ‘a sinking feeling’ each afternoon. At the time it was usual for people to take only two main meals a day, breakfast, and dinner at around 8 o’clock in the evening. The solution for the Duchess was a pot a tea and a light snack, taken privately in her boudoir during the afternoon. Later friends were invited to join her in her rooms at Woburn Abbey and this summer practice proved so popular that the Duchess continued it when she returned to London.”

The same website also lists their idea of proper rules and etiquette around the social event, so I have listed a few below.

Regarding how tea should be stirred: “Place your spoon in a 6 o’clock position in the cup and fold the tea toward the 12 o’clock positon whilst making sure not to clink the spoon against the sides of the cup…”

Regarding pinkies: “The common misconception is that outstretching one’s little finger aids the balance of the cup when taking a sip of tea; this is almost certainly not the case and is not only pointless, but slightly silly.”

The Hormel Historic Home invites all to enjoy the tradition of having tea with friends on Nov. 22. But we are breaking rules. You can dress for comfort. You can use cream if you want (tradition says to use milk), and you can let you tea steep for as little or as long as you like. Heck, we’ll even serve you coffee if you prefer (as I would).

The tea luncheon will be served between 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. in an open house style. Come when you can and stay as long as you like. Tickets are $15 for adults and $5 for children. The Austinaires will perform at 11:45 a.m. We appreciate advance ticket purchases at www.hormelhistorichome.org, but walk-ins are welcome.

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Holiday Tea Luncheon Open House

• 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., Friday, Nov. 22
• $15, $5 for children

Holiday Open House

• 3-6 p.m., Saturday, Nov. 23
• Includes touring, entertainment, and a light snack. Cash bar available. Special guests, the St. Andrews Sisters, will perform their holiday skit at 3:45 and 4:45 p.m.
• $5 per person