Downtown Kenosha tea boutique celebrates its new tea bar Nov. 19 and welcomes local artist Aaron Hunzinger for three days of handcrafted art and holiday shopping Nov. 27-29.
Southport Tea, a locally owned tea boutique and Visit Kenosha partner in downtown Kenosha, is preparing to celebrate two exciting milestones this November. The shop will host the grand opening of its new tea bar on Thursday, Nov. 19, followed by a three-day Thanksgiving weekend pop-up featuring local artist Aaron Hunzinger and his business, AHdidit, Nov. 27-29.
Located at 5701 Sixth Ave., Southport Tea opened in April 2026 under the ownership of Russ Collier. Since opening, the boutique has grown to offer more than 125 varieties of loose-leaf teas and herbs, along with a thoughtfully curated selection of tea ware, accessories and gifts.
The addition of a tea bar creates another way for customers to enjoy the shop, whether stopping in for a freshly brewed cup while exploring downtown or picking up tea to go. The grand opening will take place Thursday, Nov. 19, at 1 p.m. Initially, the tea bar will offer freshly brewed tea Wednesday through Sunday, including Southport Tea’s Kenosha Breakfast Blend black tea and seasonal Berry Hearth herbal tea. A rotating weekend menu will introduce additional varieties brewed to order.
The tea experience will continue Dec. 5 with the introduction of weekly tea tasting events. These gatherings will give guests an opportunity to sample different varieties, discover new favorites and learn more about the world of tea. Tickets will be available in-store and online at SouthportTea.com.
The holiday celebration continues Thanksgiving weekend as Southport Tea welcomes Kenosha artist Aaron Hunzinger of AHdidit for a three-day pop-up show, Nov. 27-29.
Combining industrial artistry with hands-on craftsmanship, Hunzinger creates custom lighting, unique furniture, metal art, handmade leather goods and one-of-a-kind gifts. His distinctive handcrafted light fixtures will also illuminate Southport Tea’s storefront windows, adding an artistic glow to downtown during Lightin’ Up and the holiday shopping weekend.
“I’m excited to have Aaron and AHdidit at Southport Tea for Thanksgiving weekend,” said Collier, owner of Southport Tea. “It’s a great opportunity to showcase his creativity, support another local business, and welcome people into the shop. With our new tea bar opening Nov. 19, I’m looking forward to sharing something new with everyone who stops by.”
Visitors may recognize AHdidit from appearances at the Kenosha Art Market and Hawthorn Hollow’s Walk in the Woods Art Fair. His work ranges from statement lighting and custom furniture to leather wallets and other handcrafted pieces, each showcasing his individual style and creativity.
To accommodate holiday shoppers, Southport Tea will extend its hours until 9 p.m. Friday, Nov. 27, and Saturday, Nov. 28, for Small Business Saturday. Visitors can browse Hunzinger’s handcrafted creations, shop the boutique’s selection of teas and holiday gifts, and enjoy the new tea bar.
Together, the events offer residents and visitors another reason to explore downtown Kenosha during the holiday season while supporting locally owned businesses and area artists.
Visit Kenosha encourages residents and visitors to discover Southport Tea, explore the area’s locally owned shops and restaurants, and experience the many seasonal activities and events taking place throughout the Kenosha Area.
For more information about Southport Tea, its new tea bar and upcoming tasting events, visit SouthportTea.com. Find AHdidit (all one word) on social media to explore Hunzinger’s work. For additional information about local businesses, attractions and upcoming events, visit VisitKenosha.com.