The Tamaqua Area Chamber of Commerce will be working in conjunction with the Tamaqua Station Restaurant to host a holiday event.

Join the holiday spirit in downtown Tamaqua on Dec. 7 for a Victorian Tea at the Tamaqua Station Restaurant from noon to 2 p.m.

“With fundraising events like this, the funds we use go back into our community and our business community,” said Jennifer Drake, president of the Tamaqua Area of Commerce Executive Committee. “They go into the Christmas lights that you see, into the chamber concerts along with the sponsors that we have. They go into events such as Small Business Saturday.

“All the funds that we utilize, in addition to the day-to-day operation, we put them back into our community.”

Sure, it’s almost 2020, but it will feel like Victorian times at the chamber event.

“We’re working with the Tamaqua High School Drama Club, they’ll be in costumes doing entertainment for our guests,” Drake said. “We’re hoping to kick off the holiday season. You can come dressed up, you don’t have to, you can come as you are. It could be hats and gloves, or simply holiday attire.

“Come in your ugly sweater if you’d like, or in your best holiday dress. Everybody is welcome.”

The afternoon will consist of a three-course event with various tea sandwiches, teas and coffee and desserts.

“The whole purpose is for us to raise funds,” Drake said. “The board was looking for out-of-the-box ideas; how to we get involved with the community more and the spirit of Christmas. This is an event where everyone can come together.”

In addition, there will be a holiday gift raffle with many donations from local businesses and the surrounding communities.

“You can try and win a great gift for someone on your list,” said Drake.

For more information or reservations, call the chamber at 570-668-1880, or chamber@tamaqua.net.

“Our community is rallying around us,” Drake said. “We have reservations so far from families bringing grandchildren and generations. It’s going to be a really nice event and we’re hoping people can turn out for it.”