Hopkins Tea Club Celebrates Tradition with Annual Tea Formal

On February 8, 2026, the Hopkins Tea Club hosted its third annual “Tea Formal” at the historic George Peabody Library in Mount Vernon. This event showcased the club’s mission to educate the community on tea brewing practices while celebrating the diverse traditions surrounding tea. The evening was themed “Four Seasons,” allowing attendees to explore a selection of teas that represented each season of the year.

The formal featured a focus on various Chinese teas, offering guests a delightful experience that ranged from floral notes to deeper, woody flavors. With the elegant backdrop of the Peabody Library, attendees were enveloped in a serene atmosphere enhanced by soft music, creating a perfect setting for an evening dedicated to tea appreciation. The library’s grand architecture, adorned with old books, transported participants into a regal environment, adding to the charm of the occasion.

Guests began the evening with a tasting of chrysanthemum tea paired with crab roe-flavored sunflower seeds. The light, pale yellow tea offered a floral, subtly sweet taste, while the crunchy sunflower seeds provided a satisfying contrast. This refreshing combination set the tone for the evening, easing guests into the experience.

As participants mingled, the tea tasting session commenced, led by the club’s knowledgeable brewer, Katalin Maji. Known for her expertise and passion, Maji guided attendees through each offering, sharing insights into the origins, characteristics, and traditional brewing methods of the teas. Her engaging style made even the most unique varieties feel accessible, encouraging questions and fostering a lively exchange of ideas.

Each tea served was a carefully prepared loose-leaf selection, showcasing the meticulous brewing techniques employed by the club. This commitment to tradition allowed the distinct flavor profiles of the teas to shine. The offerings included raw pu-erh to represent spring, followed by summer’s green tea, autumn’s oolong, and winter’s old white tea. Many attendees expressed their enjoyment of the darker teas, appreciating their bold flavors and comforting qualities.

During the intermission, light snacks were provided to cleanse the palate between tastings. The menu featured an array of treats, including flower cores, mung bean pastries, rice cakes, and green tea egg rolls. The egg rolls, in particular, garnered rave reviews for their perfect balance of savory and sweet flavors.

The Tea Formal presented a rare opportunity for students to dress up and slow down amidst a hectic semester. The event not only celebrated the art of tea brewing but also fostered a sense of community among attendees. For those interested in future events, the Hopkins Tea Club’s activities can be followed on their Instagram, with additional information available through their Linktree, including a list of recommended dining options in Baltimore.

In essence, the Tea Formal served as a reminder of the rich traditions surrounding tea and the joy it can bring to those willing to explore its depths.