Saint Cecelia Harvest Wine Dinner and Ball

About this event

In the years before a national Thanksgiving Day friends and neighbors would gather for a harvest dinner, giving thanks for the blessings of the year and for the promise of the dawning of the next. These dinners always included social dancing such as the Virginia Reel. Because these celebrations occurred in November they became associated with Saint Cecelia, who in some liturgical calendars was identified as the patron of music. At Shiloh Manor Farm we continue this old Virginia tradition! We are partnering with Magnolias at the Mill to present a tradition Saint Cecelia dinner inspired by a 200 year old book on Virginia cooking authored by one of Patrick Henry’s granddaughters. Following dinner musicians from the Greater Washington Folklore Society will perform traditional English Country Dance tunes that were well known in colonial Virginia such as the Virginia Reel. Dan Gillespie, a highly respected historical dance master will be on hand to teach and call the dances. No experience needed! Comfortable clothing and shoes are a must but we encourage formal or historic attire. A prize will be awarded for best costume!

From Nick Donnangelo