Fun Things to Do in Gatlinburg

Gatlinburg in the spring is a truly special place. It's no wonder this little town in the Smokies continues to grow in popularity with families seeking rest and relaxation. April and May are showcase months for the city, with tons of fun events, festivals and activities for every member of the family.

Bring your appetite to Ribfest and Wings on April 17, where you'll be tantalized by local vendors serving up mouthwatering barbecue set to the wonderful sounds of live music. Come hungry and leave happy!

Gatlinburg's Wildflower Pilgrimage, April 23 - 27, is a chance to catch the city in full bloom. This five-day celebration in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park consists of a variety of wildflower, fauna, and natural history walks, motorcades, photographic tours, art classes, and indoor seminars. Learn more from the printable brochure. While you're in the Park, enjoy the magnificence of your surroundings and try your hand at birdwatching. Plan ahead to attend this event, find that perfect cabin or chalet in the mountains, and just stay a while!

In the middle of May, Gatlinburg hosts the Scottish Festival and Games, May 16 - 18, where your family can see Highland athletics, bagpipe competitions, Highland dancing, border collie demonstrations, haggis hurling, entertainment, whiskey tasting, food & merchandise vendors.

Also the weekend of May 17-18, the fourth annual Fine Arts Festival gives visitors a second special festival option. Bring your family and check out the finest works of quality artists from around the country, delicious cuisine, and music in a beautiful mountain setting. Stay in the mountains a few more days and round out your love of the arts to visit and get to know more about Arrowmont School of Arts and Crafts, a nationally renowned center of contemporary arts and crafts education.

Last but not least, Smoky Mountain Tunes and Tales, June 13 - August 16, lets you have your senses delighted by the entertaining characters and authentic mountain music while strolling the Parkway in downtown Gatlinburg. Step back in time as costumed musical performers, storytellers and artisans portray various time periods from the 1800s to today. As you enjoy the Parkway, choose one of Gatlinburg's many fine dining establishments to accent the perfect evenings in the mountains.

Information courtesy of Gatlinburg Chamber of Commerce