Tea and cookies, holiday music, and more at annual holiday tea

Looking for a delicious activity for guests, relatives, friends and children?

The Friends of the Orcas Island Library will host the Holiday Tea and Open House on Saturday, Dec. 5 from 1 to 4 p.m.

This annual celebration has been a favorite tradition on Orcas Island for more than 50 years, as Friends of the Library thank the Orcas community and celebrate with refreshments, decorations, and lively holiday music.

The musicians include a group of Matthew Olson’s students, followed by members of the Olga Symphony. Lizz Hanks is bringing several ensembles of student musicians from Orcas School, and Katie Jensen will stroll through the library playing her autoharp, while Trudy Erwin mingles with the guests, playing her accordion.

Large red poinsettias from Driftwood Nursery will be placed throughout the library, with a floral centerpiece

arranged by Lois Baney, and many other decorations provided by a beloved friend of the library, Emily Reid, who has helped with the celebration for more than 20 years.

Between the two traditional silver tea services at each end of the table, there will be trays filled with tiny sandwiches and elegant cookies made by members of the Friends of the Library.

Judy Schliebus, Friends of the Library board member, will again oversee the Holiday Tea, assisted by Fran Pritchett, Marilyn Jackson, Marilyn Erly and Orcas High School Key Club members, as well as many others who donate finger sandwiches, cookies, and liquid refreshments, and their time.

“Whether in work clothes or holiday sweaters, please plan on coming and enjoy with us this festive tradition at the library,” organizers say.