Overland Park Set to Celebrate British Heritage at Annual Faire and Tea!
Get ready, Overland Park! The excitement is brewing for the annual British Faire and Tea happening on Saturday, November 16. If you’ve got a love for British culture, this is an event you won’t want to miss! From scenic views at the Abdallah Shrine Temple located at 5300 Metcalf to tantalizing treats, there’s something for everyone!
Tea Time and Treats Galore!
The festivities kick off at 10 am and go until 3 pm. While the delightful afternoon teas and Tuck boxes (wonderfully packed boxes filled with charming pastries to enjoy at home) are already sold out, don’t fret! For just $5 admission, attendees can wander through an array of engaging British vendors, all showcasing their products just for this event!
Feeling peckish? You can purchase homemade tea pastries and finger sandwiches à la carte, ensuring there’s no shortage of deliciousness. Not only that, but the event promises a lineup of live entertainment, with everything from bagpipe performances to highland dancing that will truly make you feel like you’ve stepped into a scene from a British blockbuster!
A Special Legacy
Leading the charge for this beloved event is Chairperson Karen Garrison, a resident of Peculiar, who’s been an integral part of the organization since she was just 13 years old. Inspired by her British mother, Sally Saar, who joined back in 1976 and helped to found the first Faire, Karen carries on a family tradition steeped in honoring British roots!
Karen’s father, an American Air Force member, brought his British bride to settle near the Richards-Gebaur Air Force Base in Belton. Garrison humorously notes her mother, “She was always quick to add that she was not a World War II bride! She was too young for that.” This delightful connection to heritage has allowed several British brides to join the Daughters of the British Empire and share their vibrant culture with the Kansas City community.
A Rich History
The Daughters of the British Empire was established back in 1909 thanks to Sarah Josephine Meredith Langstaff, who made her way to the States from England. Fast forward to today, and the Kansas chapter boasts 96 members, with their sister chapter located in St. Louis. It’s heartwarming to see such a sense of community grow from shared experiences!
More Than Just Tea
The afternoon sit-down teas have become a staple, with nearly 120 participants savoring every moment. And let’s not forget about the wonderful addition of Tuck boxes, which became popular during the pandemic when gatherings were limited. These tasty treats have continued to be a hit, ensuring everyone can enjoy a taste of Britain from the comfort of their own home!
And there’s even more fun to be had! With drawings and tombola raffle prizes to be won throughout the day, who knows what delightful surprises await you? The proceeds from this fabulous event support great causes like Hope House and The British Homes, providing supportive services and care for seniors in Chicago.
Join the Celebration!
So, mark your calendar for November 16. Grab your friends, family, and anyone with a hint of British enthusiasm, and come celebrate! To learn more about this wonderful event and the Daughters of the British Empire, check out their website. You won’t want to miss out on this vibrant celebration of culture, heritage, and, of course, tea!
