2026 Celtic Tea Social

March 2nd • South Pasadena Masonic Lodge

Each year, our Celtic Tea Social reminds us why it is such a beloved HTDS tradition. The room comes alive every year with spirited jigs, flowing waltzes, cheerful laughter, and the warmth of friends gathered together over tea and a wonderful Tea Time spread.

☘️ A Wonderful Afternoon Together

Guests embraced the occasion in colorful plaids and Celtic-inspired attire, adding to the festive atmosphere of an afternoon filled with music, merriment, and joyful celebration.

👗Our Costume Shoppe fundraiser was another highlight of the day, with generous support from shoppers helping us keep 2026 ticket prices as low as possible. Thank you to all who supported our costume fundraiser! And a special shout out to Kat for organizing!

🦋 Dancing & Merriment

The afternoon began with an engaging pre-event workshop that introduced dancers to the lively rhythms and turning techniques of the polka, giving everyone an opportunity to build confidence before the festivities began.

As the Tea Social got underway, the dance floor came alive with spirited jigs, graceful couple dances, and joyful Celtic traditions, making for an afternoon filled with music, movement, laughter, and cheerful celebration.

🫖 Tea Time

Midway through the celebration, guests gathered for our signature Tea Time and enjoyed a generous Irish-inspired buffet. The menu featured Kevin's hearty Shepherd's Pie and vegetarian Shepherdess Pie, Darlene's creamy broccoli soup, fresh spring salad, sweet buns, an assortment of fresh fruits and vegetables, and a tempting selection of sweet treats. Brendan's Breakfast Tea provided the perfect accompaniment, inviting guests to linger over warm conversation and fellowship before returning to the dance floor.

During our Tea Time interlude, guests were treated to a special Highland dance demonstration ... and were also invited to participate!

Together, the delicious fare, lively conversation, and captivating performance reflected the warmth, hospitality, and fellowship at the heart of our Celtic Tea Social.

❤️ The People Who Made the Day Possible

Caller/Dance Leader/Polka instruction

Renée Camus

Our heartfelt thanks to our caller, Renée Camus, for creating such a joyful afternoon celebrating all things Celtic! From teaching the lively Polka class to calling an energetic program of dances, Renée's enthusiasm and thoughtful planning made the day a delight from beginning to end. We certainly left with smiles on our faces and a spring in our step!

🎶Musicians

David James, Linda Kodaira, and Bill Marks

Thank you to our talented musicians for sharing your vibrant and joyful music that kept us dancing all afternoon.

🎶Sound

Behind the scenes, Aaron Jamieson's expert sound engineering ensured crystal-clear audio throughout the afternoon, allowing every announcement, instruction, and musical note to be heard with ease. His seamless work helped keep the celebration running smoothly from beginning to end.

Day of Volunteers

It takes a village! We are always grateful for the folks who can step up and help out! Send us a Volunteer submission if you would like to be involved!

❤️ And to everyone who attended...

Every smile, every dance, every conversation, and every helping hand contributed to making this a wonderful afternoon. Thank you for being part of our HTDS community.