Right this Minute

While writing about Peter and the Wolf the other day, it got me to thinking about all the holiday events that are coming up. It's time to book your holiday tea reservations! There are four children's teas that stand out.

The Ritz Carlton has a "Teddy Bear Tea"– Friday, November 24 through Sunday, December 24, 2006. Children and their favorite stuffed animals gather daily at The Lobby Lounge's cozy fireplace for traditional "Teddy Bear Tea" with "Binky the Elf." The afternoon includes classic holiday storytelling, balloons, a visit and photograph with the cuddly Ritz-Carlton Teddy, a small teddy bear to take home, as well as a "tea" of hot chocolate, teddy bear cut-out cookies, and peanut butter and jelly sandwiches. The first seating is 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.; the second seating is 1 to 2:30 p.m. "Binky The Elf," The Ritz-Carlton Teddy Bear, and a piano accompanist perform at each event. Teddy Bear Tea is $65 per guest, inclusive of tax and gratuity. A portion of the proceeds from each child's tea will benefit The Greater Bay Area Make-A-Wish Foundation. For reservations call 415.773.6198.

The Top of the Mark has a Children’s Tea that includes delicious tea sandwiches, scones and dessert buffet, plus strolling magicians with live birds and rabbits, and a special holiday gift from the Top of the Mark. Children's Tea is $39 exclusive of tax & gratuity. Fridays & Saturdays, beginning Dec 1 – Dec 30, 12noon - 3pm. For reservations call 415.616.6916.

The Garden Court at the Palace Hotel offers Prince or Princess Tea Nov 25th thru Dec 30th. Children are given sceptors and crowns along with tea service. Mondays thru Saturdays with seatings every half hour from 2:00-3:30pm. $38.00 for Adults, $30.00 for children (12 and under). Mondays, Dec 4th, 11th, 18th will be the Santa Tea. These days Santa Claus will be in the Garden Court to take photos with children. $38.00 flat price for adults and all children ages 12 and under. For reservations call 415.546.5089.

Finally, the Fairmont Hotel has Nutcracker Tea in The Laurel Court. This is last year's information - just call for the updated dates. Every day November 25, 2005 through January 2, 2006, the Laurel Court will house a gingerbread winter wonderland, setting the stage for holiday cheer. Children will enjoy a special holiday tea menu worthy of the Sugar Plum Fairy. They will also receive a Nutcracker toy and gingerbread toy soldiers to decorate with the help of the hotel's pastry chef. Adults can toast the season with a complimentary glass of champagne. Gingerbread Tea is $49 USD plus tax and gratuity for adults and children. For an additional $15 USD, adults can indulge in caviar with their holiday repast. For reservations call 415.772.5260.