Juneau cooks are preparing scones, assembling sandwiches and baking tea cookies for a Solstice Cream Tea event at McPhetres Hall.
“A Cream Tea means you put whipped cream and jam onto the scones, rather than butter,” said organizer Betsy Longenbaugh. “But the rest is similar: crustless cucumber sandwiches, a variety of traditional cookies, fruit and, of course, tea.”
The event takes place at McPhetres Hall, on the lower floor of Holy Trinity Episcopal Church, Saturday, June 23. There will be two seatings: 2 and 4 p.m. The event is a benefit for the church.
Tickets are $15 per person, or $75 for a table seating six. They are for sale at the door or in advance at the church, 325 Gold Street, just below 4th Street downtown.
In addition to tea, scones, whipped cream and jam, the menu will include egg salad and The Queen’s Coronation chicken sandwiches.
“The Brits just celebrated Queen Elizabeth’s Diamond Jubilee, the 60th anniversary of her 1952 coronation,” Longenbaugh said. “The sandwiches named for the coronation are flavored with curry and chutney, reminiscent of the nation’s connections with India.”
Black and peppermint tea will be offered. A gluten-free plate will be available if requested in advance.
Juneau pianist Tom Locher will entertain, as he did at a similar tea last fall.
“Fancy hats and white gloves will fit the bill, but jeans and rubber boots are just as welcome,” Longenbaugh said.
