By Danielle Smith

Leader Staff Writer

Hats were worn and the tea was piping hot as a group of local women got together to celebrate the newly-released film “Downton Abbey,” based on the hit television series.

Oxford resident Phyllis Miskin and 10 of her fellow “Downton Abbey” fans and friends gathered for a two-day event that led up to the premiere of the film.

Downton Abbey was a British historical drama that followed a wealthy family and their servants. It was set in Yorkshire in the early 20th century. Viewers witnessed how the historic events during that period affected those at the Abbey and the rest of Great Britain.

Miskin and the group of women have been friends for years and would chat regularly about the show, so when she heard about the movie, Miskin knew the group had to celebrate in a special way.

“I actually told (the group) ahead of time that I was planning something and they were all excited about it. About a month before (the event), I sent out invitations,” Miskin said.

The first day of celebrating consisted of a themed luncheon at Miskin’s home where guests showed up in their early 20th century best and enjoyed a variety of croissant sandwiches, roll-ups, fruit, salad and dessert catered by Victoria’s, located in downtown Oxford.

“Everything was related to Downton Abbey,” Miskin said.

Along with the themed menu, Miskin’s home was full of decorations and games that tested the knowledge of guests to see who the true fans were. Prizes included ornaments and a Downton Abbey themed “Clue” board game.

The following day, the ladies headed to the theater to see the film they had all been waiting for, dressed in their proper attire.

“We all thought (the movie) was great,” Miskin said. “Everybody loved it, can’t wait for another one to come out.”

The film, starring Michelle Dockery, Tuppence Middleton and Maggie Smith, is set in 1927 as Downton Abbey prepares for a visit from King George V and Queen Mary with trouble quickly arising.

After the film, the group headed back to Oxford to enjoy another themed dinner hosted at Victoria’s, which Miskin said was “very English.”

While there is no confirmation regarding a second film, Miskin said all of the decor has been packed away for the next celebration, whether it’s for a film release or a holiday.

“I’m kind of the one that likes to do it, the rest of them love to come to it,” she said. “It was just a lot of fun.”