Swannanoa Valley Museum to host 'AbsenTea' fundraiser over Zoom

The Swannanoa Valley Museum will be holding an "AbsenTea" fundraiser Sept. 24 to raise funds for the museum, the museum announced.

As the museum's third annual tea-themed fundraiser, the "AbsenTea" fundraiser will be used to raise funds for the museum. The event will be held over Zoom from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m.

The fundraiser will celebrate the culture of tea in a convivial atmosphere with activities and competitions for participants. It will feature a short presentation on tea history and culture, a quiz on tea history and competitions including "Most Ridiculous Hat" and "Most Beautiful Tea Pot."

Museum director LeAnne Johnson will be interviewed along with a raffle for prizes, including a Charleston Tea Plantation gift basket, Black Mountain pottery by a local artisan and a tea sampler from Black Mountain's Spice It Up.

Since being unable to open its doors, the museum has planned for additional methods to connect with the public. Digital exhibits, History Cafes and webinars on Zoom and a recently introduced History Explorers program for children have been announced.

"We want to show our supporters that we are still here, and that we've been continuing our mission of promoting the history of this valley through less-than-traditional avenues," said assistant director Saro Lynch-Thomason.

Tickets for the fundraiser are $35 for singles and $65 for couples. A $150 ticket is available for those looking to provide additional funds for the museum.

Those interested in the fundraiser can contact the museum at 828-669-9566 or info@swannanoavalleymuseum.org