“I’m so glad I live in a world where there are Octobers!“
Some characters slip quietly into our hearts, and some burst in with all the enthusiasm of a red-headed orphan declaring she’s found a “kindred spirit.” Anne Shirley is decidedly the latter. With her overflowing imagination, dramatic monologues, and knack for turning mishaps into cherished memories, Anne of Green Gables has charmed readers for generations.
Hosting an Anne of Green Gables party isn’t just about pretty teacups and raspberry cordial (though you’ll want both). It’s about creating a space where guests can delight in beauty, friendship, and a touch of whimsy — just as Anne would have it. Whether your guests are lifelong fans or discovering Anne for the first time, this party will transport them straight to Avonlea.
My Anne of Green Gables Story
Most of you know me as an author or a baker, but did you know that I once directed plays? Actually, if I’m being totally honest, I once acted on the stage. Then, as the years went by, I because a theater director.
Many moons ago, I took on the task of directing one of my personal favorites: Anne of Green Gables. It’s a precious memory that I’ll never forget. I’m particularly remembering the scene where Diana (played by my daughter, Megan) drank too much of the raspberry cordial.
We had so much fun! And I can honestly say that we all connected with Anne Shirley on many, many levels. (Hey, I definitely saw a lot of myself in her!)
I’ve never hosted an “Anne” themed party, but coming up with this post has definitely inspired me! I think it would be so much fun.
So, where to begin? At the very beginning, of course!
Setting the Scene
The beauty of an Anne-themed gathering lies in its blend of rustic charm and romantic elegance. Avonlea is a place where wildflowers bloom freely, lace curtains flutter in the breeze, and tea is always served with a little ceremony. And that’s the perfect backdrop for our party, don’t you think? So, let’s break it down so that you can plan the perfect Avonlea-themed event for your guests!
Table Settings:
- Choose pastel or floral tablecloths to set the tone.
- Use mismatched china — the more eclectic, the better. Vintage teacups, saucers, and dessert plates add personality. You can find these at resale shops. (Or, better yet, borrow them from your aunt or grandma!)
- Cloth napkins tied with satin ribbons or sprigs of lavender. (Lovely!) If you end up with paper napkins you can still fancy them up with ribbons.
Centerpieces & Decor:
- Teapots or mason jars filled with flowers: daisies, wild roses, lavender, and peonies if they’re in season.
- Scatter a few well-loved copies of Anne of Green Gables around the table for guests to leaf through.
- Hang straw hats with long ribbons along a wall or entryway.
- Use lace doilies under vases or dessert plates for that quaint, old-fashioned touch.
A Pretty Backdrop Idea:
Create a “Green Gables” sign and frame it with greenery and flowers — perfect for photos.
The Menu (Tea-Party Perfection)
Anne adored a good spread, and so will your guests. Keep it dainty, colorful, and just a little indulgent.
Savories:
- Tea Sandwiches: Cucumber, egg salad, and pimento cheese are classics. Cut them into neat triangles or dainty rectangles.
- Cheese & Fruit Platter: Include grapes, strawberries, and brie or cheddar.
Sweets:
- Luscious Lemon Blueberry Scones: A must-have.
- Homemade Lemon Curd: It’s easier than you think!
- Lemon Tarts: Bright, cheerful, and a perfect palate cleanser.
- Carrot Cake Cupcakes: A playful nod to Anne’s “carrots” — serve with cream cheese frosting.
- Shortbread Cookies: Simple and melt-in-your-mouth.
The Cordial Dilemma:
In the books, Anne famously served Diana “raspberry cordial” that turned out to be currant wine. For your party, stick with the safe (and delicious) version — a sparkling raspberry lemonade or a store-bought cordial served in glass bottles.
Activities for Kindred Spirits
Anne’s world is all about imagination, creativity, and connection. Plan activities that invite your guests to play along.
Flower Crown Station:
Set out artificial flowers, floral wire, and ribbon so guests can create their own crowns.
Dramatic Reading Contest:
Print out favorite Anne quotes and passages, then invite guests to perform their most over-the-top reading. Bonus points for hand gestures and dramatic pauses.
Puffed Sleeve Challenge:
Provide fabric, tulle, ribbon, and safety pins for guests to create their own puffed sleeves — Anne’s ultimate fashion dream. Great for silly photo ops!
Photo Backdrop:
A “Lover’s Lane” arch made of greenery and flowers for guests to pose under. Add a rustic bench or chair draped with a quilt for extra charm.
Dress the Part
Encourage your guests to channel their inner Anne, Diana, or even Marilla.
- For the Ladies: Straw hats with ribbons, long skirts or dresses, aprons, puffed sleeves.
- For the Gentlemen: Suspenders, button-up shirts, bow ties, or straw hats.
You could even provide a basket of accessories — hats, parasols, ribbons — so everyone can get into character.
Soundtrack for the Afternoon
Create a playlist of gentle, old-fashioned music to set the mood. Look for:
- Soft fiddle tunes.
- Classical piano pieces.
- Instrumental versions of the Anne of Green Gables TV or movie themes.
Little Touches That Make It Magical
- Place name cards in the form of vintage postcards from Prince Edward Island.
- Tuck small bouquets into jam jars for each guest to take home.
- Scatter quotes from the books around the party space for guests to discover (“I’m so glad I live in a world where there are Octobers…”).
A Gathering to Remember
As you pour tea, pass plates of scones, and listen to laughter floating through the air, you may feel, just for a moment, like you’re sitting at the Green Gables kitchen table. That’s the beauty of an Anne of Green Gables party — it’s not about recreating every detail perfectly, but about celebrating friendship, imagination, and the joy found in simple, beautiful things.
Who knows? You might even leave with a few new “bosom friends” of your own.
BONUS ELEMENTS FOR ANNE OF GREEN GABLES PARTY
Anne Trivia to Delight Guests
Scatter these among your decor or hide them in teacups for a little “fact hunt.”
- A Real Place: Avonlea is fictional, but it’s inspired by Cavendish, Prince Edward Island, where L.M. Montgomery grew up.
- First Published: Anne of Green Gables was released in 1908 and became an instant bestseller.
- Anne’s Name: Anne insists on spelling it with an “e” because “it’s so much more distinguished.”
- Puffed Sleeve Drama: In the book, Matthew buys Anne a dress with puffed sleeves as a surprise, and it’s one of her happiest moments.
Quick Party Prep Timeline
1 Week Before:
- Send invitations (you could design them to look like postcards from Prince Edward Island).
- Order any hats, ribbons, or floral decor online.
- Plan your tea party menu.
2–3 Days Before:
- Bake scones or freeze unbaked dough to bake fresh the day of.
- Create flower crown kits and puffed sleeve materials.
- Set up “Green Gables” sign and photo area.
Party Morning:
- Arrange floral centerpieces.
- Brew tea and chill cordial/lemonade.
- Set up food and drink tables with lace tablecloths and doilies.
Printable Quote Card Idea
“I’m so glad I live in a world where there are Octobers.” — L.M. Montgomery
“Kindred spirits are not so scarce as true love, but it’s rarer than a blue moon.” — L.M. Montgomery
