Enjoy British culture here in the Valley

It is an old tradition that still takes place today, afternoon tea is a chance for Brits to relax and recharge. 

The history of afternoon tea goes back some 200 years to Anna the Duchess of Bedford who got into the habit after regularly complaining about 'having a sinking feeling' during the late afternoon. 

Since dinner wasn't served until 8 or 9 pm Anna requested tea and bread or cakes. 

After a while she invited her friends to join her and the rest is history.

Here in the Valley, you can attend afternoon tea at The Ritz-Carlton, where Jeffrey Hattrick heads the festivities as the Afternoon Tea Maitre d'.  

Here are Hattrick's three tips to enjoy Afternoon Tea:

1.  Never hold your cup with your pinkie finger extended
2.  When stirring your tea, be careful not to clink your spoon against the cup
3.  Do not just lift the cup; you must lift the cup and saucer together from the table    

During the month of August you can also take part in the 12th annual Festival of Hats.  All you have to do is wear your favorite hat to Afternoon Tea and you will be entered into one of the most posh fashion shows of the year. 

Each week finalists will be chosen in each of 4 categories: Classic Elegance, Vintage Fashion, Cool/Hip/Trendy, and Over-the-Top. 

The finalists and their guests will then be treated to an invitation-only Afternoon Tea where four grand prize winners will be selected.

Festival of Hats Afternoon Tea
Wednesday - Saturday in August with seatings at 12 pm and 3 pm
$38 per person (exclusive of tax and gratuity)

The Ritz-Carlton, Phoenix
2401 East Camelback Road
602-468-0700
www.ritzcarlton.com /phoenix