Downtown New Westminster BIA


Events general information text here

Do you know of an entry that should belong here? Please contact us.

Royal City Tea -
See Event photos .


New Westminster, the Royal City

In 1859, Queen Victoria selected New Westminster as the first capital of the new Colony of British Columbia. She named the city after her favourite part in London. With this naming by the Queen, New Westminster gained the moniker “The Royal City”, and become the first incorporated city in Western Canada. 

History of the Tea

The age-old tradition of an afternoon tea started in England many years ago, when Anna, the seventh Duchess of Bedford (1783-1857) was credited with beginning the tradition in the late 1840s. The tea and cookies serving in the afternoon become a ritual in her home and was soon widespread throughout the British Empire.

The Event Idea

The idea of an afternoon tea event come to life when Chris Jodoin and James Rogers, two Downtown merchants and BIA directors were brainstorming ideas to attract people to the city’s core. They originally come up with a block party, but then realized they would like something fun, something big, and memorable. A tea party surely really fits with the Royal City scheme. New Westminster would definitely be the best option when choosing a city to host such event.

Invitees

Women were invited through media ads and the BIA newsletter to grab their over-sized, laced-covered prim an proper hats, put on their Sunday’s best, and tighten up those high-but-toned shoes because New Westminster was hosting a tea fit for a queen.

For years, afternoon tea was a custom only open to the upper class. Tea was far too expensive for the working class and the downright poor. The Royal City’s Royal Tea event welcomes everyone to attend. Tea lovers were invited to spend the afternoon wandering from shop to shop, sampling the various teas along the way, and enjoying the entertainment provided.

The Event Day

All visitors and businesses participating were encouraged to wear fantastic hats, satin gloves and period clothing for the event. There was a prize for the best hat. The participating businesses decorated their locations specifically for the event.

Visitors not only sampled the teas and got to know the businesses/business owners of various participating locations but also enjoyed an afternoon with great entertainment such as tea leaf readings, a butler service, the history of tea and an Antique Tea Roadshow similar to that of the famed British television series, The Antique Roadshow.








Does your business belong on this list? Please contact us.