The 2024 Alabama Sweet Tea Festival in Enterprise, Ala., celebrated the South’s iconic drink in true Southern style. Hosted annually by Visit Enterprise, the festival brings together locals and visitors alike for a day of sweet tea, live music, and family-friendly activities, highlighting Enterprise’s welcoming community spirit.
A Celebration of Sweet Tea Culture
Held at the Enterprise Civic Center Festival Field, the Sweet Tea Festival celebrates the beloved drink that has become a cultural staple across the Southern United States. Thousands spent the day tasting countless varieties of sweet tea, from classic brews to unique fruit-infused blends. Many Alabama favorites from Milo’s Tea Company, Y’all Sweet Tea and Royal Cup Coffee and Tea were on hand sharing their teas along with the stories behind their recipes, some passed down through generations. Local restaurants and home brewers also joined the festival with samples of their sweet tea renditions.
A panel of top-notch judges selected Lucia Blalock of Bonifay as the Best Home Brew for her take on a traditional tea. Of course bragging rights always come down to how the people vote! Uncle Charlie’s Juice by Charlie Glass of New Orleans took home the People’s Choice Home Brew award with his pineapple-sweetened flavored tea. New this year was the Pro-Master competition with the top prize of the day, the Tea Pro-Master People’s Choice Award, going to Huey’s Walking Tacos!
More Than Just Tea: Food and Festivities
The festival wasn’t only about tea; it was chocked full of food vendors offering tasty hot dogs, grilled hamburgers, and of course lots and lots of BBQ. Desserts and other sweet treats were in plentiful supply with freeze-dried candy, baked goods from peach cobbler to banana pudding, snow cones and ice cream. No one went home hungry from the Sweet Tea Festival! One of the coolest events at the festival was the Tea ParTEA hosted by Deborah Owen and The Fancy Fork, Gina Garrett and Cookie Crumbs, and Deanna Pierce and Lunations. Beautifully decorated tables classic and whimsical themes, dainty teacups, tea-tastings and sweet treats delighted young and old alike. Many guests—guys and gals alike—donned festive tea party hats for the occasion.
Live Entertainment and Community Spirit
Live music was a highlight featuring outstanding country acts that the crowd loved! Festival-goers enjoyed performances throughout the day, adding a lively soundtrack to the event. Performances by Sweet Tea Trio, Shane Owens and Curtis Williams kept the energy high, encouraging festival-goers to dance, sing along, and celebrate together. In addition to the music artisans and crafters showcased their work, giving guests the chance to purchase handmade goods and support Alabama’s thriving local arts scene.
Family Fun and Games
The Sweet Tea Festival catered to families with a range of activities for all ages. Children enjoyed face painting, bounce houses, and games. Corn hole competitions on the festival grounds were a big hit! However the Sweet Tea Chugging Contest was the crowd favorite. Play-by-play action was announced by Darien Craig and Brandon Echols, owners of Y’all Sweet Tea which sponsored the ever-popular sweet and sticky sport of the day. Winners in various age groups were Colt Voak of Headland; Nick Christianson, a Minnesota native and U.S. Army soldier currently stationed at Fort Moore; Dana Ray Roberts of Enterprise; and Levi Pearce of Enterprise.
Connecting the Community
The Alabama Sweet Tea Festival has become an important community event in Enterprise, bringing people together to celebrate Southern traditions and create lasting memories. The festival highlighted local businesses, showcasing Enterprise’s unique charm and hospitality, and reaffirmed the city’s love for this sweet, refreshing beverage. Mark your calendar for next year’s event tentatively scheduled for Aug. 16, 2025. You will love your time in Enterprise—we sure did!
Photos by Terra Baggett
