Steeping in Tradition: The Heart of Hull Foundation’s Annual Tea

By Creanna Gallegos, for the Sandy Standard

The Hull Foundation & Learning Center’s Annual Tea has grown into one of the most cherished traditions in our community. What began 12 years ago, on a Saturday afternoon in 2014, with the intention to bring awareness to Hull Foundation and Learning Center –  and our services to the blind community –  has evolved into a signature celebration that brings together friends, supporters, volunteers, and guests from across Oregon and beyond. Each spring, the grounds of Oral Hull Park come alive with the gentle clink of teacups, the scent of fresh pastries, and the joyful hum of conversation.

The Annual Tea is more than a fundraiser: it reflects the Hull Foundation’s mission in action. Every detail speaks to the organization’s commitment to creating experiences that are welcoming, inclusive, and rich with sensory enjoyment. With plenty to do while you’re here, you may choose to take a guided tour through the Gardens of Enchantment, sit and enjoy the sound of birds and the Fountain in the O’Keefe garden, or perhaps just enjoy an afternoon with your family member or friend, playing games, drinking tea, and supporting Hull Foundation and Learning Center’s mission to empower adults with blindness. 

The event’s history is filled with memorable moments, surprise musical performances, heartfelt speeches, and the occasional burst of laughter that ripples across the room. Even during challenging years, the Annual Tea continues, providing the community with a longstanding and much-loved event. It has weathered storms, adapted to new formats when needed, and always returned with the same spirit of warmth and generosity that defines the Hull Foundation and Learning Center.

This year’s Tea promises to be one of our most delightful gatherings yet. Once held outdoors in the picnic shelter, the Annual Tea Party now takes place in our cozy Rainbow Lodge — while still offering the option of indoor or outdoor seating so you can choose the setting that feels most comfortable.

While tea and treats are beloved staples, you can also expect plenty of friendly competition and playful fun. Our silent auction and raffles return with new and exciting prizes, and classic lawn games like badminton and croquet will be set up on the front lawns of the lodge. For our littlest guests, a dedicated table of bubble toys will keep the joy flowing.

And of course, no Tea Party would be complete without our long-held hat traditions. Prizes will be awarded for the fanciest hat, the most creative hat, and the hat with the most flowers — so come dressed in your favorite, most fabulous headwear.

As the event draws near, excitement is growing — and so is the demand for seats. With room for only one hundred guests and renewed enthusiasm from supporters across the region, tickets are expected to sell quickly. If you would like to be part of this cherished tradition, now is the perfect time to reserve your spot by calling (503) 668.6195 anytime Monday through Friday 9a.m.-4p.m. Presale tickets are available until May 25, 2026.

Do not wait — reserve your tickets today and join us for an unforgettable afternoon at the Hull Foundation’s Annual Tea. Your presence supports life-changing programs and helps keep this cherished tradition thriving for years to come.