Freezing temperatures got you down? Warm up from the inside out at the Hudson Valley’s winter tea events.
With additional reporting by Spencer Dewbury
Even though it’s still technically fall in the Hudson Valley, it seems like it has never felt so cold in December. Despite the snow, the region remains in good spirits this holiday season thanks to family-friendly fun, café and cocktail specials, and plenty of good food to go around. Adding onto that list, these local winter tea events are sure to keep the bright and cheery energy going well into the new year, from high tea to paint-and-sip workshops.
Afternoon Tea & Cookies
Mohonk Mountain House, New Paltz
Daily, 4-5 p.m.
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If you’re visiting Mohonk Mountain House for snowshoeing this season or staying the night, don’t forget to stop by the historic lake lounge for afternoon tea and cookies. A longstanding tradition at Mohonk, the hour-long daily event includes freshly baked cookies from the onsite bake shop and seasonal teas.
Private Tea Workshops
Short and Stout Tea, Albany
Weekends
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In the Capital Region, Short and Stout is a household name when it comes to tea. The company has its own line of teas that includes everything from oolong to matcha, and a café space that serves up seasonal drinks and pastries. The Albany shop also hosts private weekend workshops where participants can gain hands-on experience as they learn, taste, and explore tea from various perspectives. Workshops are scheduled for after 3 p.m. on Saturdays and after 11 a.m. on Sundays.
High Tea
Vida, Thornwood
December 20, 11:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.
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Transport your tastebuds to England during high tea at Vida in Thornwood. For $50 per adult and $30 per child, diners can experience all the makings of the European staple, from tea sandwiches like Japanese egg salad, pimento cheese, cucumber cream cheese, horseradish roast beef, and shrimp salad to sweets like scones, cupcakes, macaroons, and chocolate truffles. The best part? Unlimited tea!
Holiday Tea With Santa
The Thayer Hotel, West Point
December 20, 3-5 p.m.
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A well-known hotspot for tea in West Point, The Thayer Hotel invites Santa to join in on the fun this December. Holidays at the hotel are a magical experience thanks to the traditional décor and festive events, and this Holiday Tea With Santa afternoon is a must-do. Warm up with fresh scones, delicate tea sandwiches, and festive sweets while Santa makes his rounds.
High Tea Cooking Class
Zwilling Cooking Studio, Pleasantville
December 28 and February 1, 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.
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Looking to gift your special someone something new this year? Give this Westchester cooking class a go. At Zwilling Cooking Studio in Pleasantville, enjoy a classic English high tea experience as you learn how to make the highlights of the delightful meal, including scones, finger sandwiches, and delicate sweet treats. Of course, tea is included.
Tea & Wellness Talk
Boardman Road Branch Library, Poughkeepsie
January 15, 6:30-7:30 p.m.
This free Poughkeepsie winter tea event is specifically geared toward women at the Boardman Road Branch Library. Join others for a calming teatime paired with a women’s wellness talk that goes deeper than surface-level self-care. Participants will enjoy wellness teas that support calmness, digestion, and immune balance while learning how to combat chronic stress.
Tea Bag Painting
Germantown Library, Germantown
February 28, 2-4 p.m.
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This creative workshop presented by Friends of Clermont State Historic Site reuses empty tea bags to create miniature masterpieces. While participants sip on light refreshments and teas provided by Harney & Sons, Ruby Silvious will guide everyone through a paint-and-sip session using watercolor and gouache. All supplies are included, and tickets cost $40 for Friends of Clermont members and $50 for non-members.
Related: 6 Hudson Valley Ice Cream Shops to Enjoy Year-Round
