Tea at the Castle is a classic Salisbury House tradition and a beloved event. Every tea is unique but they all have a few things in common - delicious food and drinks, delightful company, the opportunity to explore the estate and learn a little history, and a live performance on Salisbury's one-of-a-kind Steinway D.

Afternoon Teas

Our afternoon teas (1 - 4 PM) include a small assortment of sweets and lighter fare savory foods, bottomless tea in two varieties (while supplies last!), and a brief program about the history of the estate and/or collection.

High Teas

Our high teas take place later in the day (3 - 6 PM) and build upon the afternoon tea with a heartier menu, charcuterie to share with the table, and an expanded beverage selection that includes select wine and beer options alongside a signature cocktail/mocktail. After the meal and while guests tour the estate they can participate in a hands-on activity such as perfume making or bouquet building.

The Holiday Blend

Our annual holiday tea is a blend - it takes place earlier in the day like an afternoon tea but features a slightly wider menu like the afternoon tea. When attendees go to explore the estate, they'll see it decked out from ceiling beam to floor board in its holiday best. 

Upcoming Teas

Sold Out!

Holiday Tea

  • December 13, 2025
  • 1 - 4 PM
  • $75 | Limit 2 per customer

High Tea

  • February 21, 2026
  • 3 - 6 PM
  • $85 | Limit 2 per customer

Spring Tea

  • May 2, 2026
  • 1 - 4 PM
  • $65 | Limit 2 per customer

Get Notified

When you sign up for our Tea at the Castle mailing list you will receive notifications and ticket information pertaining to Tea at the Castle events only.

Frequently Asked Questions

Our teas take place in the Common Room which has a capacity limit of 60 guests. This capacity limit allows for proper tea service and our volunteers to easily navigate the room. Tables cannot be added to the nearby Great Hall as this area is for plating and prepping.

Increasing the event's capacity is not possible - if only Carl had built a ballroom!

The food selections served vary from tea to tea, and come from a variety of different local vendors rather than being served by a single caterer.

We are able to make accommodations for the following common allergies when notified at ticket purchase: gluten, dairy, tree nuts, peanuts, vegetarian, vegan. We cannot guarantee accommodations for all diet preferences and allergens. If you have other dietary restrictions please contact us at rentals@salisburyhouse.org before tickets go on sale to check if we are able to provide accommodations.

Each attendee must have a ticket, and while there is not a children's ticket price older kids are welcome. The event is most suitable for ages 8+. 

Strollers and car seats cannot be brought into the event space due to safety concerns; our volunteers require clear walkways for tea service. Highchairs are not available.

Tea at the Castle volunteers assist with check-in, food and drink prep/serving, clean up, and assist guests with other activities. Volunteers are also sent home with a box of food/treats from the event as a thank you.

 

Learn more about volunteering

A toast to the past and the present

Programs such as Tea at the Castle are one of the many ways the Salisbury House Foundation serves its community as a unique gathering place. Proceeds from the event also benefit the 501(c)3 nonprofit and its general operations as a house museum. Donations can be made with your ticket purchase at check out. Thank you for your support!

  • (515) 274-1777
  • contactus@salisburyhouse.org
  • 4025 Tonawanda Drive
    Des Moines, IA 50312
Special thanks to
Salisbury House is a proud member of
© 2025 Salisbury House and Gardens. All rights reserved.
Website by Seth Stevenson Marketing.
})