By Micaela Williamson
Updated March 2, 2022. Tea is tied to a lot of probably positive things for kids to be exposed to early on: a sense of sophistication, patience, refined taste, even reading British-y books, kind of. And whether Piaget signs off on it or not, there are a lot of tea party venue options in the region, convenient for parents running out of ideas of what to do with their kids. Because at the end of the day, it’s about keeping them occupied, somehow, some way.
Groups of 12 or more can book an exclusive “Victorian Tea and Manners for Children.” The event features demonstrations of proper tea etiquette and an exclusive tour or the 19th century farmhouse. Other special teas events occur throughout the year on holidays such as Valentine’s Day, Mothers’ Day, and Christmas. Special tea programs for scouts are available. 312 Park Ave., Falls Church, 703-248-5171
Mrs. B is the local maven of manners and does great teas for children at her Falls Church storefront, as well as monthly themed teas at the lovely Morrison House in Old Town Alexandria. The teas always include dress up, crafts, and stories! Special birthday party packages are also available. 136 W. Jefferson St., Falls Church, 202-448-2930
An age-old tradition, Afternoon Tea at the Oatlands Plantation is a great experience for all ages. Afternoon Tea occurs many times throughout the year and includes sandwiches, scones with cream, and other luxurious treats. The tea takes place in the historical Carriage House, and reservations are highly recommended. Afterwards, mansion tours are offered to tea guests at a discounted rate. Check the website for upcoming tea events. 20850 Oatlands Plantation Ln., Leesburg, 703-777-3174
On Thursdays through Sundays, children can enjoy a decedent “Peter Rabbit Tea” inside the luxury hotel. Children and adults alike come dressed in their best. Reservations are recommended on the weekends. Call for availability as COVID-19 evolves. 1700 Tysons Blvd., McLean, 703-506-4300
Elden Street Tea Shop
The Elden Street Tea Shop is both a tea shop, selling multiple varieties of teas to take home with you, and a functioning tea room, with tea party events hosted frequently. Themes of the tea parties vary between traditional, like Mother’s Day afternoon tea, and fun, like Madam Puddifoot’s Tea Shop, based on the Harry Potter series. 714 Pine St., Herndon, 517-418-1863
The Tea Cart
This tearoom hosts a variety of afternoon teas, from the traditional British fare to Willy Wonka-themed tea times the kids will love. With 25 teas paired perfectly with the season and service, kids will be able to immerse themselves in the one-of-a-kind experience. 16 W. Main St., Berryville, 540-955-0832
Micaela Williamson is a co-author of local travel guide, Kid Trips Northern Virginia, an extraordinary resource that provides descriptions, useful information and insider tips for hundreds of local destinations. Micaela is also an award winning blogger who enjoys supporting area businesses and scouting out family-friendly venues with her two young sons.
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