Annual holiday tea planned at Como

Como Park Zoo and Conservatory invites guests to a holiday tea like no other that includes a behind-the-scenes tour in the Marjorie McNeely Conservatory. This long-standing tradition takes place on Dec. 11 with tea at 11am and 2pm.

Guests will enjoy a three-course tea service in the Conservatory’s North Garden – a space known for its lush and tropical collection of exotic trees and plants including fig, papaya, pomegranate, and chocolate. The tea service courses include savory petite sandwiches, oven-hot scones, and an assortment of delectable sweets.

Following the tea service, guests will be treated to a rare behind-the-scenes tour of the Conservatory. This tour, lead by a member of the Conservatory’s horticulture staff, includes an inside look at the building’s expansive production greenhouse space and Sunken Garden. See thousands of plants being cultivated for the upcoming Winter Flower Show, as well as several off-exhibit botanical collections of orchids, bromeliads, bonsai, and ferns. Learn what goes into creating the five spectacular annual flower shows in the Sunken Garden and how the Conservatory production greenhouses nurture plants for Como Education programs, the Edible Garden, and select gardens for the City of Saint Paul.

Tickets for the Holiday Tea cost $35 per person if reserved before Thanksgiving and $40 per person after Thanksgiving. Space is limited and reservations are required by calling 651-487-8250.