EXCELSIOR SPRINGS, Mo. – A new weekly event is beginning on Thompson Avenue, created to bring more people into local shops and encouraging them to spend time downtown. Called Thursday Tea on Thompson, the event launched as a group effort on Jan. 22 and brings together several Thompson Avenue businesses for a shared, unique experience.
The idea developed through conversations among shop owners, with coordination led by Abby Williams, owner of Abby’s Sweet Peas. Williams said she has been thinking about ways to increase foot traffic on Thompson Avenue since opening her store there about two and a half years ago.
Williams opened Abby’s Sweet Peas after operating a retail store in Boonville for more than a decade and working as a traveling sales representative throughout Missouri, Kansas and Nebraska. What began as a retirement plan turned into something she wanted to continue. She said small-town retail allows business owners to build closer relationships with customers and feel more connected to the community.
Thursday Tea on Thompson grew out of a desire to create something consistent for Thompson Avenue, which Williams said has been affected by the loss of nearby businesses that once helped draw regular traffic. While larger downtown events often take place elsewhere, she wanted to establish something simple, free and recurring that focused specifically on this stretch of shops.
The event works as a progressive tea gathering. Participating businesses offer complimentary drinks and small treats, encouraging visitors to move between stores at their own pace. On Jan. 22, six businesses participated, each offering a different item.
At Abby’s Sweet Peas, Williams served hot blueberry tea fresh for guests. Other shops offered hot chocolate, mini cupcakes or truffles, and more. Items were sourced from bakeries or prepared in compliance with health department requirements. Visitors were invited to sample what was available, browse the store and continue on to the next location.
Williams said the goal is not just to bring people inside, but to give them a reason to stay longer, to socialize, and to just try something new. The format allows customers to come and go as they like, without the structure of a scheduled event or timed experience.
During the first Thursday Tea, several small groups participated, including one that contacted Williams in advance to ask about reservations. While reservations are not part of the event, she said the call gave her hope in community interest and helped confirm that people are looking for informal, social activities downtown.
Because of its location, Abby’s Sweet Peas often served as a starting point for visitors. Williams said she made a point to explain how the event worked and direct guests to the other participating businesses.
Not all Thompson Avenue businesses are able to take part due to operating hours, but Williams said interest has continued to grow. To help with coordination and promotion, she created a Thompson Avenue Shops Facebook page, which will be used to share updates about Thursday Tea and future events.
Thursday Tea on Thompson runs weekly from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., with dates listed through the winter months. Williams said the group hopes to continue building on the idea and is already discussing additional seasonal events, including a possible Sandwich Saturday series later in the spring, and unique drink or treat options as the seasons change.
For now, the focus is on consistency and awareness. Williams said building enthusiasm among businesses has taken time, but early participation has been encouraging.
Organizers hope Thursday Tea on Thompson becomes a familiar part of the downtown routine, offering residents a simple reason to visit Thompson Avenue and explore what its shops have to offer.
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