High tea, Victorian costumes, classy Christmas parties, and you’re invited. Did you have any clue that any Iowan can sign up for tea parties, and this month the official Terrace Hill Christmas party? Also called the Governor’s Mansion you can also do a tour, but you can’t go to the basement vault. We asked Terrace Hill administrator, Molly Franta what’s inside.
Terrace Hill hosts Christmas and tea parties and most Iowans have no idea they can come and check it out, sip some tea and enjoy the music. The party benefits the Iowa National Guard and care packages are sent to our troops. Franta also shares some of the coolest rooms in Terrace Hill that most folks don’t have access to.
Holiday Elegance, Victorian Style
During the holiday season, Terrace Hill is transformed with elaborate decorations—including towering 14-foot trees in every room, all set up with the help of dozens of volunteers. “It took about 15 people each of those two days. So, you know, I’m not a math major, but it’s a lot of hours of volunteer time to decorate all of those trees and make ’em look really special,” Franta explains. These meticulously adorned halls create an atmosphere reminiscent of the kind of Christmas scenes seen in classic films—except this is real.
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Tea with a Twist of History
The tea experience goes far beyond steeping a bag in hot water. Guests are served a traditional high tea in antique dishes, including handcrafted scones, cucumber sandwiches, and a locally blended tea from Gung Fu Tea in Des Moines. Everything is designed to reflect the Victorian era that inspired Terrace Hill’s original design. “There are no tea bags. It’s all loose leaf and it’s prepared a certain way by the chef,” Franta notes, underscoring the authenticity and care embedded in the event.
Proceeds with Purpose: Preservation and Patriotism
Beyond its beauty, the tea also serves a noble purpose. Proceeds go to the Terrace Hill Partnership, which funds restoration efforts such as refurbishing antique furniture and intricate stenciling within the mansion. Additionally, the annual Christmas at Terrace Hill event honors deployed Iowa National Guard troops. The gathering includes thousands of cookies, live music, dramatic vignettes staged by Des Moines Community Playhouse actors, and donations of care packages and hand-written cards sent to troops overseas. “Each year we try to increase the amount that we can support them through that activity,” says Franta.
From Millionaire’s Mansion to Governor’s Residence
Franta also shares the storied history of Terrace Hill—from its construction by Iowa’s first millionaire, Benjamin Franklin Allen, to its eventual donation by the Hubble family and transition to the official Governor’s residence in the 1970s. Unknown to many, it wasn’t always home to Iowa’s governors. “It was built from 1866 to 1869 by Benjamin Franklin Allen… He was Iowa’s first millionaire,” Franta recounts.
Secret Spaces and Local Legends
While much of Terrace Hill is open to the public, Franta hints at lesser-known quirks of the property—including a hidden vault in the basement that now stores the First Gentleman’s famous homemade pickled beets and salsa. “They’re under lock and key, but they are that good that you don’t want them just going missing,” she jokes. Perhaps even more exclusive is the view from the top of the 90-foot tower, accessible only via ladder and reserved for a lucky few. Franta says, “I do wish that somehow we could share that experience with people because it’s really, really special to go up.”
A Community Invitation to Celebrate
Tickets for Christmas at Terrace Hill are still available and must be purchased in advance. The $30 family four-pack offers access to the full experience, including carolers, reindeer, Victorian-costumed guides, and self-guided tours. “We just want people to come and experience it. You’re going to learn more when you come and visit,” Franta emphasizes, making a strong case for why every Iowan should feel welcome inside the state’s most iconic home this holiday season.