High Tea time at The Commons at Union Ranch in Manteca is always a special occasion. But it’s even more so during the Christmas season when it’s held with Winter Wonderland magic for backdrop.

That was the joyous atmosphere in the spacious hall of The Commons Thursday evening when residents and guests were treated to a high-tea feast fit for royalty. While they sat around linen-covered tables, they were served tea and scones and other palate-pleasing creations prepared by Dining Services Director Wathanak Sambath. Serenading them with Christmas music was harpist Betsy Haydon of the University of the Pacific.

Additional carols were presented by the members of the Del Webb Choir.

Greeting guests as they entered the building was a colorful Winter Wonderland scenery created by Chef Sambath. Among the guests that evening were Mayor Steve DeBrum, who was just recently sworn in, and his wife Veronica.

The Commons host a high tea event four times a year, and it’s open to the public, said Marketing Director Josie Omlin.

“It’s an opportunity to share our community with the general public,” she explained.

The Commons at Union Ranch, a senior living “dedicated to offering a true sense of belonging to seniors and their families,” is located on North Union Road just south of the Del Webb community.