City releases dates for this year’s afternoon teas at the Forbes Homestead

Afternoon tea at the city's oldest home, the Reverend Forbes Homestead, is now open for registration for times in July and August.

Teas take place at 2 p.m. on the following days:

• Wednesdays:
  • July: 10, 17 and 24.
  • August: 14 and 21
• Thursdays:
  • July 11, 18 and 25.
  • August 15 and 22.

"We look forward to another year of Forbes teas as well as our new addition of children's teatime," said City of Grande Prairie Mayor, Jackie Clayton. "We invite everyone to come explore the beautiful historic home and hospital of Dr. and Mrs. Forbes while enjoying an afternoon of tea and treats."

This summer the City is offering a special children's teatime during Thursdays tea times for ages five to 10 with their parent or guardian. Children's teatimes are facilitated by the Children's Literature Roundtable and includes a story from a local author, an activity complimenting the story, juice and a cookie. There are only eight spots available each teatime, so visitors are encouraged to register early.

Wednesday partnership additions

A few of the Wednesday tea times have special activities taking place with local community groups and organizations, including:

• July 24: Northern Piecemakers Quilting Guild on site with a quilt show inside the homestead.
• August 21: Peace Country Historical Society on site with a display and information about the society.

Afternoon tea costs $5 per person and includes a large scone (choice of plain, raisin or cheese), jam, butter and choice of tea, coffee or juice. The teatime includes room to ensure participants can tour the homestead during their visit.

Reservations are required and can be made by contacting AccessGP at 311 or [email protected].

History of Forbes afternoon teas

Agnes Forbes, wife of Reverend Alexander Forbes, was one of the first pioneers and health care providers in this area. She tended to both physical ailments as well as mental ones, keeping her door open to provide visitors with advice and a cup of tea.

Mrs. Forbes frequently hosted tea parties at her home which became popular community-building events in the early settlement years.

Learn more about Reverend and Mrs. Forbes by visiting the Forbes Homestead located at 10424 96 Street (behind the QEII Hospital) or at cityofgp.com/museums.