Cornish charity Penhaligon’s Friends have announced plans for a Mad Hatter’s Party to be held in Falmouth in October.

The party, which is being held at the Greenbank Hotel on October 3, will be a day of music, dancing, food and entertainment – including afternoon events suitable for children – all themed around Lewis Carroll’s character from Alice in Wonderland, parts of which were written while the author was staying at the hotel.

The Mad Hatter’s Party will start with facepainting, storytelling and cream teas in the afternoon, followed by an evening of music from Falmouth Soul Sensation and Jay Washington, plus DJ Steve Owen; a buffet provided by The Greenbank, art auction and photo booth – with more attractions still being planned.

Organiser Mary Gander, from Sweetpea & Betty, said: “We really wanted to help Penhaligon’s Friends celebrate their 20th birthday in style and once we had the Greenbank Hotel’s support, a Mad Hatter’s theme seemed the obvious choice. We’re hoping to raise a significant amount so Penhaligon’s Friends can continue with their vital work.”

Chantel Worden-Evans from Penhaligon’s Friends said: “Penhaligon’s Friends is proud to be celebrating our 20th year of supporting Cornish families. This unique and exciting event is a fantastic way to promote our charity and raise much needed funds, ensuring that we are able to continue our vital support.”

Tickets for the party are available now and are priced at £25 or £16 for party-goers arriving after 9pm. They can be bought online at www.madhatterscocktailparty.eventbrite.co.uk or in person from Sweetpea & Betty in Falmouth High Street.

*Penhaligon’s Friends was formed in 1995 to provide support for children and young people who have been bereaved. Activities include Memory Days, which are run four times a year to help children as young as four cope with a loss of a loved one.