The Watkins Glen Area Chamber of Commerce is celebrating the grand opening of Montour Falls Tea Company this weekend, adding a new women-owned business to the village’s growing downtown. The family-run shop will officially open Saturday, Oct. 5, during the Montour Falls Harvest Festival, with a ribbon-cutting ceremony scheduled from 1 to 2 p.m.
The tea shop, located at 214 W. Main Street, offers an array of hand-crafted teas sourced from around the world, as well as cocktail infusion kits made with local ingredients. The owners, led by Sarah and her family, aim to provide a unique experience for tea lovers while supporting local farms and producers.
“We are excited to open our doors and share our love of tea with the community,” Sarah said ahead of the opening. “We’ve put together a diverse selection, and we can’t wait to introduce our cocktail infusion kits, which add something special to any drink.”
The opening comes as the village celebrates the annual Harvest Festival, providing a festive backdrop for the new business. The festival, which draws crowds from around the region, will offer visitors a chance to explore the shop and sample its tea varieties.
Local leaders expressed enthusiasm about the company’s arrival, noting its potential to add to the area’s economic growth. “It’s always encouraging to see a local, family-operated business open its doors, especially one led by women,” said Nigar Hale, Executive Director of the Watkins Glen Area Chamber of Commerce. “Montour Falls Tea Company brings a fresh, unique offering to the community, and we’re proud to welcome them.”
The tea shop’s grand opening is seen as a boost to Montour Falls’ downtown area, which has been working to revitalize its small business scene. Visitors to the Harvest Festival are expected to stop by, adding to the excitement surrounding the new venture.
The ribbon-cutting will kick off at 1 p.m., and festival attendees are encouraged to check out the shop’s wide selection of teas and infusion kits. Local residents and visitors alike are invited to be part of the celebration.
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