Love and light abound this fall at The Hermitage Hotel. For two weekends, the hotel will give its traditional afternoon tea a festive turn with Afternoon Chai, a celebration of Diwali. Known for elegance and gracious service, the historic hotel will honor the Festival of Lights with a gathering that pairs Indian hospitality with a cherished Nashville tradition.

“Some of my happiest memories of Diwali are simply everyone being together...family and friends, sharing food and gifts, getting dressed up, the house full of people. There is so much joy and generosity in it. To share a little of that at The Hermitage feels very special,” said Dee Patel, managing director of The Hermitage Hotel.

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For Dee — who grew up celebrating Diwali — the occasion offers an opportunity to share a beloved part of her own life with hotel guests. Her memories of a house filled with family and friends will find a fitting setting in the historic hotel, which has welcomed Nashville gatherings for more than a century.

The Grand Lobby and Veranda will be the perfect setting for guests to take in the grandeur of the historic setting. At the table, guests will enjoy masala chai, festive mithai — Indian sweets — and savory bites. The menu reflects the flavors and generosity central to the celebration.

Getting dressed is part of the pleasure, too. Guests are encouraged to embrace the occasion with a treasured sari or kurta, Indian couture, beautiful jewelry or richly embroidered pieces. 

Afternoon Chai will be offered Oct. 30–Nov. 1 and Nov. 6–8.