(14-Adult) Challenge yourself with what you thought you knew about our nation’s past with an entertaining history quiz while enjoying afternoon tea. Discover fascinating facts and unexpected truths about our nation’s history, symbols, events and notable figures - including some former Green Spring residents.

(14-Adult) Learn about the history and importance of marigolds to different cultures and celebrations, including the joyful Mexican celebration, Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead). Craft a marigold flower crown or a garland using blooms grown at Green Spring to take home. Afterwards enjoy horchata and other traditional Mexican treats as you socialize in the Historic House.

(16-Adult) View the interior of the 1784 Historic House to discover fascinating ways it was adapted over time, reflecting changing needs, lifestyles and technologies spanning three centuries. A hidden doorway, a rotated staircase, repurposed historic woodwork and a major mid-20th century renovation all reveal how much a home can tell us about human history.

(14-Adult) A uniquely American symbol, the apple pie is really a medley of ingredients from far away and pie-making traditions from long ago. Explore the culinary roots of apple pie to discover an all-American dish that perfectly reflects this “melting-pot” nation. Hear about the historical importance of apple orchards in American agriculture and on Green Spring Farm. Afterwards, stay for apple pie and socializing. This program links to the VA250 and Fairfax250 commemoration.

(14-Adult) Hear hair-raising stories of hauntings and ghost hunters that pose dilemmas for caretakers of the past. Learn why historic sites with supernatural reputations can become haunted by ghost stories that misrepresent historical fact and reduce historical figures to mere spooks and specters. Hear how Green Spring’s Historic House and other local historic properties handle the question “are you haunted?” Afterwards, stay for some spooky refreshments and socializing.

(14-Adult) Enjoy a social and educational experience as you strike a blow for “libertea!” The Boston Tea Party of December 16, 1773, became a symbol of resistance against all things British, including taxes on tea. Hear about the colonists’ boycott of the “baneful herb” and how American patriots turned to their gardens to make their own “liberty teas” from a wide range of plants, fruits, flowers and herbs. Enjoy some authentic samples of these delicious tea-free infusions and exchange opinions in a relaxed setting. Linger, sip and enjoy the company as much as the tea. All-American accompaniments served. Meet at the Historic House.

(14-Adult) Enjoy a sociable crafting workshop to create an all-season centerpiece that combines two of our favorite things: flowers and teacups. Gather at the Historic House to make a beautiful teacup topiary that will grace a table or mantle for years to come. All materials supplied, including fine china teacup and saucer. Meet at the Historic House. Refreshments served.

(14-Adult) Winter is a festive season around the world with traditions that combine spiritual meaning and ritual with light, renewal, and joyful gatherings. Enjoy a traditional afternoon tea service as you learn about winter holidays across cultures and continents with our interactive quiz. From solstice festivals to Carnival, discover customs around the globe that bring connection, celebration and warmth to the coldest months.