Something BIG is brewing in Columbia. For generations, fruit tea has been steeped into the story of our community. It’s been shared around family tables, poured in local restaurants, and served with Southern hospitality that has made Columbia unlike anywhere else.

Fruit Teaser is a one-year-only community celebration to proclaim itself as the Birthplace of Southern Fruit Tea and celebrating the drink that has become part of our identity! This special kickoff event is all about our residents—bringing everyone together to sip, celebrate, and show the world what makes Columbia’s fruit tea culture so unique.

September 12, 2026

3 PM to 8 PM

Downtown Columbia (Maury County Parking Lot): 707 Woodland Street, Columbia, TN


For generations, fruit tea has been woven into the story of our community. It’s been shared around family tables, poured in local restaurants, and served with Southern hospitality that has made Columbia unlike anywhere else. Now, it’s time to make it official as a community!

Columbia Main Street is celebrating big this year with the residents of Columbia…because Visit Columbia has something EVEN BIGGER for next year!! Stay tuned!

Do you like collectable cups? If yes, we would absolutely suggest purchasing a ticket early! You can find the link to purchase a ticket below the FAQ.

If you decide to wait, attendees can buy a ticket at the event. You will not receive a collectable cup.

Located behind the Maury County Courthouse is the Maury County Parking Lot. This event will take place within the county parking lot. Address (707 Woodard Street, Columbia, TN 38401)

Fruit Tea Tasting (Ticket)

FAQs — General Public Fruit Tea Competitions

🍓 Fruit Tea Kids’ Poetry Contest is open to all youth ages 17 and under—tell us why Fruit Tea is special to you through an original poem! Entries are free and must be submitted by August 25, 2026, with poems inspired by what Fruit Tea means to you, Columbia traditions, or your own creative memories. The top three poets will be recognized during the Fruit Teaser event on September 12, 2026, in downtown Columbia. A total of $100 in cash prizes for the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place winners!

Click the link here (https://links.columbiamainstreet.org/widget/survey/SolcpV6qdChOBgirjRkV?notrack=true) or by following the link button below!!

Think you have what it takes to become Columbia’s Fruit Tea King or Queen? Up to 10 adults ages 18 and older will compete to be the first to finish one pitcher of Fruit Tea during the Fruit Teaser event on September 12, 2026. The winner will receive a $100 cash prize and the official title of Fruit Tea King or Queen. Space is limited, and all contestants must register in advance and follow contest rules. Follow the link (https://links.columbiamainstreet.org/widget/survey/JN8LxOA16UTp61DAsDdw ) to sign up or the button below!

More details to come about the Fruit Tea Song Contest!!

Fruit Teaser POEM Contest (YOUTH) Fruit Teaser CHUGGING Contest (ADULTS)

FAQs for Fruit Tea Vendors

We are accepting all participants for this year’s Fruit Tea Tasting: restaurants, caterers, individuals, civic groups, etc. If interested, please complete the vendor form (found on the next page.)

It is free to participate…HOWEVER… All Participants must supply 10-12 gallons of homemade Fruit Tea. Columbia Main Street will provide the tasting cups for all applicants. The Fruit Tea competition will be judged and winner(s) announced during the event.

Fruit Tea Competition — Deadline to sign up (September 1)

Craft/Baker/Food Vendor Application — Deadline (August 1) Vendors will be notified of accept/waitlist by August 5.

Yes, we are accepting food trucks and baker/crafter vendors who have Fruit Tea merchandise.

Fruit Tea Competition Application Craft/Baker/Food Vendor Application