Celebrate International Tea Day on May 21 with a visit to Victoria, British Columbia.
Pendray Tea House © Destination Greater Victoria
For a fairytale afternoon, make a reservation at the Fairmont Empress and enjoy a traditional Afternoon Tea in the elegant Lobby Lounge. This iconic hotel has long welcomed royal guests and serves classics such as Rose Congou Emperor Tea—one of Princess Diana’s favorites—alongside an assortment of sweet and savory treats. Families can choose the Prince and Princess Tea, a children’s version designed for kids aged 5–12, while adults can try Sunset Sips, an evening cocktail twist on tea service.
Deepen your appreciation for tea with an in-person workshop at Silk Road Tea Store, located in Victoria’s historic Chinatown. These hands-on sessions cover topics from brewing techniques to creative uses for tea, including tea cocktails and slushies. Silk Road also supplies loose-leaf teas to local tea rooms, including The Teahouse at Abkhazi Garden, which highlights seasonal, locally sourced ingredients on a rotating menu of delicate treats.
Silk Road Tea Store © Destination Greater Victoria
Pendray Tea House offers a contemporary approach to afternoon tea with a menu that accommodates a range of tastes. The Classic Afternoon Tea features seasonal selections and West Coast-inspired items, with vegan options available. Children can enjoy a dedicated Children’s Tea menu with kid-friendly choices like grilled cheese and Nutella with marshmallow sandwiches. For a more substantial experience, the Scottish High Tea presents a hearty assortment of savory dishes complemented by scones, cocktails, beer and cider.
Whichever tea experience you choose, Victoria provides a variety of elegant and creative options to mark International Tea Day, from historic hotel service to intimate neighborhood tea shops and hands-on workshops.
Explore Victoria’s afternoon tea offerings to plan a memorable tea celebration.