Happy Birthday to British Queen Elizabeth

THE third Garden Party organized by the British Embassy to celebrate Queen Elizabeth’s birthday and raise money to benefit local schools will be held April 17.

Those who have attended in past years have enjoyed the event so much so that John Bryant of the Instituto Britanico said organizers did not want to make any big changes this year as last year’s party was such a success (TT, March 12).

Diane Wakefield has been at every Garden Party since the event’s inception. Her husband, John, is on the organizing committee.

“It’s a fun day out,” Wakefield said. “The entertainment is also excellent.”

THE party provides a chance for British citizens living abroad and non-citizens to get together and enjoy a day of British culture while contributing to a good cause.

The money raised by the event supports Costa Rican schools that do not have sufficient funding. Last year’s event raised more than $9,000, which was used to build basic facilities for three rural schools. Organizers hope that this year’s party will be even more successful.

THE Garden Party will have activities for all ages. Children can enjoy pony rides and face painting while adults can take part in the silent auction or dance to the live music on the floor set up over the ambassador’s pool – one of the few changes this year. There will also be Scottish and Maypole dancing throughout the party.

Guests can also enjoy the food and drinks- including tea and scones, homemade jams and chutneys, strawberries and cream, along with food provided by area restaurants will be available at the party. TraditionalGarden Party drinks, such as Pims, a lemony summer drink, will also be available.

The event is open to anyone interested in attending. Entrance is adults ¢2,000 ($4.75), children ages five to 12 ¢1,000 ($2.35), children under five are free. Admission includes ¢500 worth of tokens for food and activities, with more tokens available for purchase.

THE event will take place in Escazú at the residence of British Ambassador Georgina Butler running from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. The British Ambassador’s Residence is located in Escazú, Carretera Escazú to Santa Ana, from la Estación del AyA go 300 meters west and 75 meters north. In case of rain, there is a large covered area.

For more information, contact the British Embassy at 258-2025.