What to Expect at Your First Feast of Tabernacles

So you have decided to attend the Feast of Tabernacles for the first time. Maybe a friend invited you. Maybe you have been studying the biblical feasts and feel called to keep them. Whatever brought you here, we want you to know: you are welcome, and you are going to have an incredible time.

Here is everything you need to know about what to expect at your first Sukkot gathering with us.

What Happens Each Day

The Feast runs for about 10 days, and each day follows a rhythm that feels natural within the first day or two. Mornings begin with worship and praise, followed by a message or Torah study. Afternoons are free for activities, river time, fellowship, or rest. Evenings bring another service or gathering, followed by campfire time, karaoke, testimonies, or just sitting under the stars with new friends.

Two days are High Sabbaths: the first day of Sukkot and the Last Great Day. These are set-apart days of rest and convocation, much like a weekly Shabbat but with special significance. Services on these days are longer and more focused.

What to Bring

If you are tent camping, bring your tent, sleeping bags, pillows, camp chairs, a cooler, and a long extension cord for electricity. Flashlights and lanterns are essential for navigating the campsite at night. Layers are key because Tennessee mornings can be chilly while afternoons warm up nicely.

For everyone, bring comfortable shoes for walking on grass and uneven ground, a Bible, a notebook for taking notes during services, and sunscreen. Do not forget swimwear for river activities and a towel. See our full packing and preparation guide for a detailed list.

What to Wear

Dress is casual and comfortable. This is a campout, not a conference. You will see people in jeans, sundresses, t-shirts, and sandals. For worship services, some people dress up a little, but there is no dress code. Wear what makes you comfortable and allows you to focus on YHWH and community.

How Worship Works

Our worship is Spirit-filled, joyful, and participatory. Expect live music with guitars, keyboards, and drums. Expect singing, clapping, dancing, and lifted hands. We worship in English with Hebrew songs mixed in. If you do not know the songs, just listen, sway, and let the Spirit move you.

Messages come from seasoned teachers, including our host Brother Mark Harris, and focus on the meaning of the Feast, biblical truths, and practical faith living. Torah study sessions are interactive and welcoming to all knowledge levels.

"You shall rejoice in your feast, you and your son and your daughter, your male servant and your female servant, the Levite, the stranger, the fatherless, and the widow who are within your gates." — Deuteronomy 16:14

The Food Situation

Breakfast and dinner are catered and included with your registration. Meals are served communal-style under the covered pole barn, and the food is hearty, home-cooked, and plentiful. Lunch is on your own, and many families bring coolers with sandwich supplies, snacks, and drinks. Free coffee, tea, and hot chocolate are available throughout the day.

Making Friends

This is the part first-timers are most nervous about, and it is the part that surprises them the most. Our community is warm, open, and intentional about welcoming newcomers. You will be greeted, invited to sit with families, and drawn into conversation. By the second day, you will not feel like a stranger. By the last day, you will feel like family.

Kids Activities

If you are bringing children, they are going to love it. We have dedicated children's programming with crafts, Bible stories, games, and activities tailored to their age groups. Beyond organized programming, the venue itself is a playground: creek splashing, trampoline jumping, sports, hayrides, and running free in the fields. Your kids will beg to come back next year. Read more about Sukkot activities for kids.

Tips for First-Timers

• Arrive early on the first day to get settled before the opening night service.
• Introduce yourself. People want to meet you. Do not wait to be approached.
• Pace yourself. Ten days is a long time. Rest in the afternoons. You do not have to attend every single event.
• Bring cash for any vendor items, offerings, or impromptu group outings.
• Keep an open heart. Some things may be unfamiliar. That is okay. Ask questions. People love to share why they keep the Feast.
• Take photos. You will want to remember your first Feast.
• Call us with questions. Emily is available at 931-319-8270 to answer anything before you arrive.

Your first Feast of Tabernacles is something you will remember for the rest of your life. The friendships, the worship, the beauty of being outdoors, and the tangible presence of YHWH among His people — it is unlike anything else. Come as you are. You belong here.