π§ββοΈ Witches’ Tea Party Returns to Whistlestop Manor in Sweetwater – High Tea, Bonfire Crafts & Starlit Dining
Fall magic is returning to the Sequatchie Valley region this October. Whistlestop Manor, the historic 1859 estate in nearby Sweetwater, Monroe County, is bringing back its beloved Witches’ tea party-a sold-out event last year that blends elegant high tea with autumn enchantment, bonfire crafts, and photo opportunities under the stars.
ποΈ When It’s Happening
The Witches’ tea party runs across three dates in October 2026:
- Friday, October 9 at 7:00 PM (ages 13 and up)
- Saturday, October 10 at 4:30 PM (child-friendly seating)
- Saturday, October 10 at 7:00 PM (adults only, under the stars)
Groups of ten or more can book a private Witches’ tea party on any available date throughout October. π
π Where to Go
Whistlestop Manor is located at 134 Head of Creek Road in Sweetwater, Tennessee 37874-about 20 minutes from Dunlap, nestled in the foothills east of the Sequatchie Valley. The historic 5-acre estate offers dining under the stars and beneath a willow tree, creating an intimate, atmospheric setting for the autumn celebration.
β¨ What to Expect
Each ticket includes a full high tea menu featuring tea sandwiches, sweets, scones, fresh fruit, pasta salads, and more. π° Beyond the meal, guests enjoy bonfire crafts, costume opportunities, photo ops, and prizes throughout the evening. The combination of elegant dining and playful autumn activities makes this event appealing to both adults seeking a unique night out and families looking for a festive, memorable experience.
π° Ticket Prices & Lodging
Individual tickets are priced at $75 for adults and $45 for children (12 and under). For guests who want to extend their stay, Whistlestop Manor offers three luxury suites available for overnight lodging, allowing visitors to make a full weekend of the experience. ποΈ
Why This Matters
The return of this event reflects the growing appeal of experiential, locally-rooted entertainment in the Sequatchie Valley region. Whistlestop Manor‘s Witches’ tea party sold out last year, signaling strong community and regional interest in themed events that blend dining, creativity, and seasonal celebration. For families and friend groups, it offers a chance to gather for something distinctly different from typical restaurant outings-a chance to dress up, participate in crafts, and create shared memories in a historic setting. π
Community Connections
Events like this strengthen ties between nearby communities. Residents from Dunlap, Soddy-Daisy, and surrounding areas can easily access Whistlestop Manor for a special occasion, whether it’s a birthday celebration, friend reunion, or family outing. The venue’s willingness to accommodate private group bookings also opens opportunities for local organizations, church groups, and civic clubs to host their own themed gatherings in October.
Human Impact
For children, the event offers a magical, age-appropriate way to celebrate autumn and dress-up traditions. Adults get a rare opportunity for an elegant, whimsical evening-something between fine dining and theatrical fun. Parents and grandparents can attend together at the 4:30 PM seating, while adults seeking a quieter, starlit experience can choose the 7:00 PM slot. The private group option also means local organizations can create custom celebrations tailored to their members’ interests. β¨
ποΈ How to Book
Tickets and reservations are available by calling or messaging Whistlestop Manor at (423) 271-6380. Because last year’s event sold out, organizers recommend booking early to secure your preferred date and seating time. Groups of ten or more should contact the venue directly to arrange a private tea party on any available October date.
What Residents Should Know
This is a ticketed event with limited seating, and advance booking is strongly encouraged. The venue offers flexibility for different group sizes and preferences-families with young children can attend the 4:30 PM seating, while adults-only groups can enjoy the 7:00 PM starlit experience. Overnight lodging is available for those traveling from farther away or wanting to make a full getaway. π
What Happens Next
As October approaches, Whistlestop Manor will likely fill available seating for each date. Guests who book early can expect confirmation details, any special instructions for costumes or attire, and information about parking and arrival. After the event, word-of-mouth feedback will likely influence whether this becomes an annual tradition and whether similar themed events expand at the venue.
Community Questions Worth Considering
- How might themed events like this strengthen tourism and repeat visits to the Sequatchie Valley region?
- What other seasonal celebrations or community gatherings could local venues host to bring neighbors together?
- How do private group bookings help local organizations create unique fundraising or celebration opportunities?
- What role do historic venues like Whistlestop Manor play in preserving local character and creating memorable community experiences?
If you’re looking for a fall outing that blends elegance, fun, and autumn magic, mark your calendar for the Witches’ tea party at Whistlestop Manor this October. π§ββοΈ Whether you’re planning a family adventure, a night out with friends, or a group celebration, call (423) 271-6380 to reserve your spot-and bring someone who loves a little seasonal enchantment.
What to Know Before You Go
- Reserve your tickets early by calling or messaging (423) 271-6380, as seating is limited and previous tea parties have sold out.
- Choose the session that best matches your party, with a child-friendly seating at 4:30 PM on Saturday and evening sessions designated for teens and adults.
- Come dressed in costume to take full advantage of the seasonal photo opportunities, bonfire crafts, and event prizes.
- If you are traveling from out of town, inquire about booking one of the three luxury on-site suites available for overnight lodging at the manor.
π€Source
Whistlestop Manor – Witch Hat Clay Class event at Smalltown Ceramics in Dunlap, TN on Saturday, October 17th.





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