The Holiday Tea at Fairmont Palliser for Grownups & Kids is Adorable & Amazing

The holidays are all about traditions. Some we inherent, others we establish for ourselves. What’s important is they’re filled with meaning (and that caregivers aren’t too drained after executing them!).

We’re big fans of getting into the holiday spirit in sumptuous surroundings and on this, Fairmont Palliser delivers. There are few establishments in this city that look as merry as this grande dame hotel does. And we can’t think of a better holiday tradition than tucking into their festive afternoon tea.

Visions of sugar plums are sure to be dancing in your children’s heads if you treat them to the Little Queens and Kings menu. Your little highnesses can munch on freshly baked chocolate chip scones and a selection of tiny tea sandwiches. Made with finicky eaters in mind, there’s a black forest ham and cheese selection, a peanut butter, honey and banana, and a strawberry cream cheese tartine. Pastries include mini sprinkle cupcakes, chocolate mousse, and house-made chocolates. There’s more that gets served up on the three-tiered tea stand, but we want you to have some element of surprise.

For grown-ups, you can stick with tradition (scones, house-made clotted cream, finger sandwiches, and pastries) or go with their Holiday Afternoon Tea Menu. Speaking of tea, there are nine different types to choose from, ranging from black to green to herbal.

Be forewarned: It’s a very substantial meal and you won’t leave hungry. Sit in either the Rimrock dining room or the elegant lobby near the newly constructed life-size gingerbread house.

Making spirits bright in Banff

If you’re in the mountains over the holiday season, pay a visit to their sister property, Fairmont Banff Springs. A Christmas Carol will be performed and don’t worry, Scrooge and the ghost of Christmas past shouldn’t be too heavy for wee ones to watch. Puppets and music are at the heart of it all, plus there’s an intermission. And if you want to get really decadent, tack on weekend brunch. There are discounts for the play if you’re dining or staying at the hotel, so be sure to mention that when you make your reservation.