A tea dance, also called a thé dansant (French for "dancing tea"), was a dance held in the summer or autumn from 4 to 7 p.m. In the English countryside, a garden party sometimes preceded the dance.: 26f The function grew out of the afternoon tea tradition, and J. Pettigrew traces its origin to the French colonization of Morocco.
Books on Victorian-era etiquette included detailed instructions for hosting such gatherings, such as Party-giving on Every Scale (London, n.d. [1880]), which notes that "afternoon dances are seldom given in London, but are a popular form of entertainment in the suburbs, in garrison-towns, watering-places, etc.": 26 Royal Navy officers hosted tea dances aboard ships at various naval stations, the expenses being shared by the captain and officers, as they were shared by colonels and officers at barrack dances in mess rooms ashore.: 27–28
The usual refreshments in 1880 were tea and coffee, ices, champagne-cup and claret-cup, fruit, sandwiches, cake, and biscuits.: 29 The expected feature was a live orchestra or a small band playing light classical music, even after the invention of the phonograph. The dances included waltzes, tangos, and the Charleston by the late 1920s. They also offset the expenses of a seated supper, wine, and candles associated with a ball. A stiff waxed canvas dancing cloth was considered sufficient when strained over the drawing-room carpet, rather than taking up the carpet and waxing the floor in preparation for dancing.: 26f, 29 The dining room served as the tea room, with the dining tables arranged at one end as a buffet. Floral decorations were modest.
Tea dances are events organized on Sunday afternoons in the US gay community, originating in New York in the 1950s and 1960s. [1] The original dances included tea service. [2] They were …
Tea dances are a common cultural reference in early 20th-century British and American fiction as a staple of genteel society. Literary characters normally attend these receptions while visiting …
Apr 23, 2018 · Enter the Sunday tea dance, an almost-lost tradition LGBTQ people adapted as a time to enjoy each other’s company before going back to work on Monday.
Jan 11, 2023 · A tea dance is a social gathering where people meet to dance and enjoy light refreshments. Learn about its origins, traditions and etiquette, and find tips for planning and …
Tea dances are events organized on Sunday afternoons in the US gay community, originating in New York in the 1950s and 1960s. The original dances included tea service. They were a …
May 8, 2019 · From big name hotels to tiny neighborhood gems, there’s an afternoon tea service to suit every mood (from cozy and casual to formal and sophisticated) and budget (prices on …
Feb 5, 2024 · What Is A Tea Dance in 2025? Discover the magic of tea dances! Uncover the history and charm of this timeless social gathering that will transport you to a bygone era. …
Jul 7, 2022 · A growing interest in tea and the ever-growing desire for more mixed-gender mingling led to the emergence of the tea dance. These were more casual occasions than a …
Sep 23, 2019 · Steeped in rich history is the Tea Dance. Read on to learn about the origins of this timeless afternoon social ballroom dance event.
Our inclusive dance events provide a unique experience in elegant venues, from historic ballrooms to charming tea houses. Treat yourself to a delightful selection of tea and delectable …
