Ring in the New Year in Downtown Gatlinburg

The Smoky Mountains are a great place to visit during the winter months. Winter Magic lights up the cities of Gatlinburg & Pigeon Forge, with beautiful light displays and decorations illuminating the area. This winter wonderland makes Gatlinburg the perfect place to celebrate the holidays, including New Year’s Eve. Moreover, Gatlinburg pulls out all the stops for New Year’s Eve as they host a street party that features music, party favors and a spectacular fireworks display at midnight.

The fun begins around 11pm December 31st in the streets of downtown Gatlinburg. The Space Needle in Gatlinburg is the focal point of the New Year’s Eve celebration. Standing over 400 feet high, this attraction is home to Gatlinburg’s 22nd Annual New Year’s Eve Ball Drop and Street Party. The Space Needle is located at traffic light #3 on the parkway.

At the stroke of midnight, the night sky lights up with a terrific fireworks display over the Space Needle. Gatlinburg hotels offer great views of the fireworks from their respective balconies. Just be sure you’re able to see the top of the Space Needle, and you’ll be guaranteed a great view of the celebration. Visitors can all get a good vantage point from Park River Road, is the party atmosphere isn’t for you.

Voted one of the “Best New Year’s Eve Shows in the South,” Gatlinburg’s New Year’s Eve Ball Drop & Fireworks is a fantastic way to welcome the New Year of 2010.

There are various Gatlinburg shows available on New Year’s Eve, including Dixie Stampede, Hoot N Holler Christmas Dinner Show, Black Bear Christmas Spectacular, The Miracle and The Comedy Barn, among others. Visitors might also want to take a tour on the Trolley Ride of Lights, which is a fun way to experience the beauty of Gatlinburg’s Winter Magic.

Gatlinburg Fantasy of Lights Christmas Parade Showcases Holiday Spirit

The 34th Annual Fantasy of Lights Christmas Parade is scheduled for December 4 in Downtown Gatlinburg. This year’s parade is presented by Land O’ Lakes Half and Half.

In honor of the 75th Anniversary of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park the Smokies superintendent Dale Ditmanson will serve at the Grand Marshall of the parade. Classic motor cars and period dancing routines will begin the salute to the Smokies and the lead of the parade.

More than 100 parade entries are schedule to appear, including marching bands and giant helium balloons. The parade begins at 7:30pm at Traffic Light #1A on Hwy 321 ends about an hour-and-a-half later at Traffic Light #10.

Before the parade starts, Santa’s Autograph party will be held at 6pm at Riverbend Mall, near Traffic Light #3. Pre-parade performances by Sweet Fanny Adams Theatre, Ginger Brown’s Academy of Performing Arts, Elizabeth Williams Dance Academy and the Winter Tunes & Tale characters are also planned.

Gatlinburg hotel reservations are available now for the holiday season.

Winter Magic Tunes & Tales begins Nov. 27 in Gatlinburg

The city of Gatlinburg presents Winter Magic Tunes & Tales November 27 – December 20, on Friday and Saturday nights.

The magic of the holiday season comes to life thanks to award-winning designer DeWayne Kirchner’s Whimsical Elves. They enchant the Parkway in downtown Gatlinburg with singing, dancing and storytelling. The elves, who hail from the Land of Elfdom add a dash of holiday cheer to the patrons who visit the city of Gatlinburg.

Children of all ages can meet as many as 20 charming and affable characters hailing from such locales as Jolly Town, Cinnamon City, Gum Drop Lake, the Nutwood Forest and the Village of Belldom, including distinct personalities like Jilly Bean, Cinny Mon, Jingle R. Bell, Holly Berry, Mayor Wally Nutt and Professor Tant E. Baum.

The festive fun of Winter Magic Tunes & Tales provides the perfect setting for yuletide memories and Christmas cheer.

Holiday Events presented in Gatlinburg, TN

Gatlinburg has plenty to offer this holiday season. There are special festivals, holiday-themed shows and unique craft events to discover this November & December.

Gatlinburg Festival of Trees
Scheduled for November 24 – 28, the Festival of Trees features numerous ornately decorated Christmas trees at the W. L. Mills Conference Center. This winter wonderland is open from 4pm-7pm, and admission is free.

The Nutcracker “Sweet”
The Smoky Mountain Dance Theater Company presents the Nutcracker “Sweet” November 27 & 28. Performances are at 7pm at the W. L. Mills Auditorium. Reservations are suggested.

Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community Holiday Arts & Crafts Show
Get a head start on your Christmas shopping at the Christmas Craft Show, held November 24 through December 6, 2009. Doors open daily at 10am and admission is free to everyone. The show, located at the Gatlinburg Convention Center, will have unique crafts, holiday décor and talented artisans on hand.

Gatlinburg Winterfest Trolley Ride of Lights

The Gatlinburg Winterfest Trolley Ride of Lights is a delightful 45-minute guided tour of the city. The tours take guests on a winter wonderland tour of the city so that friends and family can see the beauty of the holiday season in the Smoky Mountains. The Trolley Tours depart three times nightly from November 4 – December 30, and each Saturday night in January. Departure times are at 6:30, 7:40 and 8:30 each night of operation. Rides depart from the Gatlinburg Welcome Center at traffic light #5, near the Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies.

Trolley rides cost $5 per person.

The Trolley Ride of Lights is closed on December 5, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and New Years Eve.

If you plan on visiting Gatlinburg this holiday season, reserve your Gatlinburg lodging now for the best deals.

Join Gatlinburg for its Winter Magic Kickoff & Chili Cookoff

Gatlinburg’s 20th Annual Winter Magic Kickoff & Chili Cookoff is scheduled for Wednesday, November 4, from 4pm-9pm. It will feature mouth watering recipes of home-style chili ranging from mild to to mouth-watering hot. Up to 20 vendors will serve up their best chili recipes during this annual event. The event is located between traffic light #6 and the Riverside Motor Lodge.

With the purchase of a ticket, guests receive a spoon and voting ballot and get to sample a variety of tasty recipes and vote for their favorite in the People’s Choice Award. Judges will select winners in categories including Best Taste, Booth Presentation, Apron Design and Most Unique Chili Name.

The Chili Cookoff will also feature entertainment by the Marvelettes, Motown’s first successful female vocal group. They are most famous for their hit, “Please Mr. Postman," but are also notable for songs like “Don’t Mess with Bill,” “Beechwood 4-5789” and “Playboy.” In total, they scored 19 top 40 American R&B singles and 1- top 40 American pop singles.

Tickets for the Gatlinburg Chili Cookoff are $7 in advance and $8 at the gate.

The Winter Magic Kickoff portion of the event highlights the seasonal debut of the all-LED Gatlinburg Winter Magic lights program. Gatlinburg Winter Magic features $1.5million custom designed, one-of-a-kind lighting displays along the Gatlinburg Parkway.

7th Annual Gatlinburg Veterans Day Celebration Planned

Gatlinburg presents its 7th Annual Gatlinburg Veterans Day Celebration on Wednesday, November 11, 2009 at Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies plaza. The event begins at 11am and activities will include a military aircraft flyover, patriotic music, recognition of veterans in attendance, remembrance of fallen comrades and speeches from notable veterans. An American Bald Eagle appearance and remarks by musical tributes by three local high school bands plus the Knoxville Pipe & Drum are part of the festivities.

Gatlinburg has been designated by the Veterans Day National Committee and U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs as an official Regional Site for the Observance of Veterans Day. This designation affiliates the Gatlinburg Veterans Day Celebration with National Veterans Day activities taking place at Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington, Virginia. Gatlinburg is one of only two Tennessee cities, along with Nashville, to receive this designation, and one of only 40 official sites across the nation.

The observance has also been designated as a Top 20 Event by the Southeast Tourism Society.

Fall Events Planned in Gatlinburg Tennessee

There are several Gatlinburg activities and events planned this fall.

On September 24, A Taste of Autumn, a fundraiser for the United Way, will be held at the Gatlinburg Convention Center. The fundraiser will feature the delicious creations of some of the area’s finest restaurants and businesses. For a $25 donation, guests can enjoy unlimited sampling from all of the participating vendors. Live entertainment is also planned.

Old fashioned wagon rides are available in Gatlinburg now through October 29. The departure point for the wagon rides is at Traffic Light #6 at Mountain Mall. The rides operate from 5pm-9pm Sunday through Thursday and leave approximately every 45 minutes. The old fashioned wagon rides cost $4 per person. All proceeds benefit the United Way.

October 8-25 the Gatlinburg Craftsmen’s Fair returns to the Gatlinburg Convention Center. More than 200 booths featuring some of the nation’s finest artisans will fill the convention center. The artisans will demonstrate their skills, answer questions and some of their unique art will be for sale. Live bluegrass and country music entertainment will also be on-hand. The fair is open from 10am — 7 pm daily and 10am — 5 pm on Sundays. Admission is a $6 for adults and children 12 and under are free

Gatlinburg Craftsmen's Fair Scheduled for July

Voted one of the south’s most popular summer events, the 34th annual Gatlinburg Craftsmen’s Fair is scheduled for July 17 – 26 at the Gatlinburg Convention Center. This event is expected to have more than 200 booths featuring some of the nation’s finest work. Artisans will be on hand to demonstrate their skills, answer questions and offer unique art for sale. Bluegrass and country music will also be available. Keith Longbotham and Band perform July 17-21, while Dennis Lee & Band perform July 22-16. Show times are 1pm, 3pm & 5pm daily. On Sundays, shows are at 1pm & 3pm only.

The Gatlinburg Craftsmen’s Fair is open 10am-7pm on daily. On Sunday, it is open from 10am-5pm. Adult admission is $6; Kids under 12 are free.

4th of July Parade in Gatlinburg Celebrates Americas Indepence with Midnight Spectacular

Celebrate the 4th of July with nearly 100,000 of your best friends!

For the 34th consecutive year, Gatlinburg kicks off America’s Independence Day celebration with the nation’s first parade leading off at 12:01 a.m. on Saturday, July 4. This midnight spectacular – with giant helium balloons – is a patriotic tribute to the four branches of our armed services and leads into a full day of fun.

For a little American ingenuity-fueled adventure, take in Gatlinburg’s popular River Raft Regatta at noon on Saturday, July 4th. A family favorite for friendly competition, this unmanned river raft race is hosted by the United States Navy and has featured boats made of matchsticks, floating rocks and even rubber ducks! Gatlinburg’s popular River Raft Regatta takes place at noon on Saturday, July 4th, beginning at the River Terrace bridge on River Road and ending at the Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies bridge in downtown Gatlinburg. This unmanned river raft race will be hosted by the United States Navy and is open to anything floatable except balls and plastic eggs. In the past, families have entered boats made out of matchsticks, floating rocks, as well as little rubber ducks. Registration begins at 10 a.m., with the race beginning promptly at noon. Support for the River Raft Regatta is provided by the Gatlinburg Recreation Department.

Then, just an hour after sundown, the Fourth’s Grand Finale occurs on the streets of downtown Gatlinburg with a fireworks extravaganza visible all along the Parkway from Traffic Lighe #3 to the Sky Lift starting about 10:30 p.m. Lasting almost 20 minutes in duration, the sights and sounds of “the rocket’s red glare” will fill the sky as a fitting tribute to this day of celebrating freedom.

Smoky Mountain Tunes & Tales in Gatlinburg

Back by popular demand, Gatlinburg's 4th annual presentation of Smoky Mountain Tunes & Tales™ begins in downtown Gatlinburg on June 12, 2009 and will run through August 8. Tunes & Tales is a summer-long street performance event featuring costumed musical performers, storytellers and artisans portraying time periods as far back as 1800.

This popular eight-week event truly highlights one of Gatlinburg’s greatest assets – the walkability of the community – and provides guests with an interactive, educational and entertaining experience the whole family can enjoy.

The collection of personalities and performers arrive nightly at 5 p.m. in the center of town. Visitors witness a magical transformation of sidewalk to stage as the characters disperse along the downtown Parkway for an evening of entertainment and storytelling until 10 p.m. As many as 18 nightly acts perform throughout the evening.

Special for the 2009 season, characters will salute the 75th anniversary of the establishment of Great Smoky Mountains National Park as costumed characters Mark Pedro, portraying a Civilian Conservation Corps member of the 1930s and Ginger Brown, portraying a local schoolteacher of the 1930s, provide insights into the beginning of the most visited national park in our National Park System. Quiltin’ Annie, portrayed by Sabrina Gray, will demonstrate hand quilting techniques as she tells stories about the home economics of our region’s past.

Traditional and bluegrass music will be performed throughout downtown Gatlinburg during the event, along with storytellers, costumed characters, crafters, and cloggers featured each evening.

Two traditional mountain music duos will entertain with a variety of instruments as Booger Town Gap, as well as Suzie Reynolds and Steve Mayfield, perform songs dating back to the very early days of Gatlinburg. The pure and rustic music and folk-like lyrics tell stories of the joys and tribulations of life of the early pioneer families.

Since Gatlinburg is the birthplace of the famous bluegrass tune, “Rocky Top”, Tunes & Tales features traditional bluegrass bands each night playing favorite bluegrass standards. All performances are free and happen all along the Parkway, seven nights a week until August 8 making every evening a special event in Gatlinburg.

The Holloway Sisters Band from Lenoir City, Tenn., Southern Skye from Pineville, Ky., The Beagles from Lenoir City, Steve Brown & Hurricane Ridge from Newport, Tenn., Laycee Lee Mack & Granite Station from Clinton, Tenn., and Sevier County’s own Woods Brothers, Gary Hughes Band, and Hammer & Strings will provide the rich sounds of bluegrass music in various locations around Gatlinburg.

And of course, watch out for the most famous of local characters - Zeno the Gatlinburg BearTM - as he and his Ranger friend make surprise appearances to greet our welcome guests and to pose for family photos.

Cosby in the Park Honors Heritage of Smoky Mountains

The Great Smoky Mountain 75th Anniversary Celebration continues with “Cosby in the Park,” an event that will honor the heritage of the Cosby Community, a portion of which lies within the Great Smoky Mountains. The event is scheduled for May 16 2009, from 10am to 4pm, and is FREE to the public. It will be held at the Cosby Campground amphitheater and picnic area and will feature old-time mountain music, storytelling, old-fashioned children's games, and traditional crafts.

Gatlinburg's Ribfest And Wings Festival Serves Up Delicious Fun

Ribfest & Wings is moving to the Gatlinburg Parkway for a full-fledged Street Fair on Thursday, April 23.

Gatlinburg’s 8th Annual Ribfest & Wings Festival will feature extended hours (4 to 10 p.m., with food sampling starting at 6) and loads of atmosphere as the Parkway transforms into a Street Fair between Traffic Light 6 and Riverside Motor Lodge/Reagan Terrace Mall.

Come out and enjoy live entertainment, children’s activities, two hot wing eating contests and an ice cream eating contest, each promising a wonderfully good time! The Oscar Mayer Wienermobile will also be part of the fun.

This year’s event features a mixture of entertainment, spiced up by the smooth Motown music of The Tams, the return of the Beat Daddys featuring their soulful rock ‘n roll blues, and the funky rhythm and blues of Dishwater Blonde on the main stage, supplemented by strolling musicians and a second stage featuring local favorites and familiar sounds of Smoky Mountain Tunes & Tales performers.

A panel will judge and award the best ribs or wings in seven categories. All vendors will be vying for the coveted “People’s Choice Award” chosen by popular vote.

Hot wing eating contests sponsored by All Sauced Up will take place at 5 and 7 p.m. and feature wings prepared in sauces such as “Blazing Bomb,” “Fire Pit Hell,” “Treacherous Tongue,” “Scorching Screaming” and “Next Day Disaster.” Prizes will be awarded to the “Hot Wing Eating Contest Champion of the Year.” See if you can handle it!

Ben & Jerry’s will host the ice cream eating contest at 9 p.m. to help wrap up the evening of fun and festivities.

“We think this will be our best Ribfest & Wings extravaganza ever,” said George Hawkins, Special Events Manager for the Department of Tourism. “The Parkway is such an exciting and unique venue.”

An armband for Ribfest & Wings may be purchased for $12 (or $5 for kids) that allows sampling until 9 p.m. or as long as the ribs and wings last.

Confirmed vendors include All Sauced Up, Brass Lantern Grill, Bubba Gump Shrimp Company, Chefdawg Catering, Corkys BBQ, Crawdaddy’sRestaurant & Bar, Gatlinburg Elks Lodge, Gatlinburg Fire Dept, Gatlinburg Police Department, Hellbender Grill, Hogg’s & Honey’s Saloon & Grill, Lineberger’s Seafood Restaurant, McCutchan’s Brass Grill, Ripley’s Aquarium of Smokies, Smoky’s Pub & Grub, Texas Roadhouse and TGI Fridays.

Gatlinburg Fine Arts Festival Scheduled for May 16-17

The Gatlinburg Fine Arts Festival (GFAF) is a family-oriented event that features quality artists from around the country, delicious cuisine, and music. Volunteers from the community produce the festival to benefit the Sevier County Arts Council and Arrowmont School of Arts and Crafts, an internationally recognized visual arts center, providing creative experiences year round.

2009 will be the fifth year of the festival and large crowds are expected. Gatlinburg is a thriving tourist destination and a gateway city to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, with over 9 million visitors annually. The festival is being held in the center of the city along River Road and on the grounds of Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies.

The Gatlinburg Fine Art Festival features over 50 professional artists and craftsmen and it annually awards $5,000.00 in cash prizes. The event is scheduled for May 16-17 2009.

Music of the Mountains Scheduled in Gatlinburg

Great Smoky Mountains National Park and the City of Gatlinburg have announced the "Music of the Mountains" program on Saturday, March 28, 2009, a jointly-sponsored event that celebrates the national park’s 75th anniversary with southern Appalachian music. The event includes a series of free performances of old-time mountain music during the day at the Park’s Sugarlands Visitor Center and culminates with a ticketed evening concert in Gatlinburg, Tenn., featuring “Jimbo Whaley and Friends."

The six programs that are scheduled at the Sugarlands Visitor Center require no tickets or reservations and are free. These programs will be held in the auditorium beginning at 10 a.m. with the last performance scheduled at 4 p.m. Tickets for the evening performance, which will be held at 6:30 p.m. at Gatlinburg’s W. L. Mills Conference Center, can be purchased online in advance for $20 at http://www.jimbowhaley.com/ or at the door during the evening of the concert for $25.

“Music of the Mountains" began in 2005 and is an ideal way to showcase some of the musical traditions of the southern Appalachian Mountains during this year’s 75th anniversary of the national park which, among other things, is a celebration of the Park's rich history and culture,” said Park Superintendent Dale Ditmanson. Many of the people who lived and farmed in this area traced their ancestry back to the British Isles. Old World ballads, jigs, reels, and fiddle songs were brought to the New World and passed down through generations. Tunes and songs changed over the years as new renditions were made, new lyrics added, new instruments used and even different keys added, establishing southern Appalachian music as a true American folk art.

“We have another fabulous lineup of old-time and traditional artists for this year’s program,” said Supervisory Ranger Kent Cave. “We want to thank our partners – the City of Gatlinburg and Great Smoky Mountains Association for making it possible to showcase this important part of our Smoky Mountain heritage. We are also happy that Jimbo Whaley, whose family and music are deeply rooted in these mountains, is again a part of the celebration,” Cave said.

The schedules for both the Sugarlands Visitor Center and Gatlinburg performances are:

Sugarlands Visitor Center (free admission)

10:00 a.m. Lost Mill String Band

11:00 a.m. Tony Thomas

12:00 p.m. Dr. Ted Olson

1:00 p.m. Boogertown Gap

2:00 p.m. Roan Mountain Hilltoppers

4:00 p.m. Roger Howell and the Bailey Mountain Ramblers

W.L. Mills Conference Center, Gatlinburg, Tennessee

6:30 p.m. Jimbo Whaley and Friends

Gatlinburg Springfest Event Filled With Fun Activities

During the three-month Springfest celebration that begins in early March and continues into the second week of June, visitors witness Gatlinburg’s transformation into spring when the city’s streets overflow with baskets of beautiful blooming flowers and plants. Pansies, daffodils, tulips, mandevillas, bougainvilleas, lantanas, scaveolas and wave petunias are among the many varieties of flowers seen throughout the city. Live entertainment can be found along sidewalks, adding a festive flair to the time-honored Downtown Parkway stroll.

Members of Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community display unique handcrafted wares as they gather at the Gatlinburg Convention Center to host their annual Easter Arts & Crafts show Wednesday, April 8 through Saturday, April 11.

On Easter morning, April 12, join in the local tradition and attend Ober Gatlinburg’s 12th Annual Easter Sunrise Service enhanced by the beauty of the Smokies. Free tram rides to the mountain top begin at 6:15 a.m. and continue in 15 minute intervals until the service begins at 7 a.m. Complimentary parking at the resort will be provided for those who prefer to drive. A breakfast buffet will be waiting and available at the Ober Gatlinburg Restaurant from 7 a.m. until 10:30 a.m.

The smell of hickory-smoked barbeque fills the air as folks roll up sleeves and dive in to sample their secret sauces on delectable ribs and wings from vendors from all over the Southeast on Thursday, April 23 at Gatlinburg’s Ribfest & Wings. This festive street party features live entertainment, lots of fun and barbeque ribs and wings on the open grill just for your tasting.
The 59th Annual Spring Wildflower Pilgrimage, Wednesday, April 22 through Sunday, April 26, is another great event, especially for hikers and nature lovers who love to see delicate wildflowers in bloom. Hosted by Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the University of Tennessee Botany Department and the Gatlinburg Garden Club, this seven-day program offers more than 150 different hiking tours of trails ranging from easy to strenuous, exhibitions, demonstrations, classroom lectures and delightful motor excursions into the wonderful season of spring in the Smokies.

Spring events continue with Gatlinburg’s Scottish Festival & Games Grand Parade on Friday, May 15 at 6 p.m. at Traffic Light #10 in downtown Gatlinburg. All Scots are invited to march or ride in the parade. On Saturday, May 16 and Sunday, May 17, Mills Park in Gatlinburg becomes competitive ground for the 28th Annual Scottish Festival & Games where clans meet and feature Highland athletics, bagpipe competitions, highland dancing, border collie demonstrations, haggis hurling, entertainment and whiskey tasting, along with food and merchandise vendors.

Gatlinburg's Fine Arts Festival, a family-oriented fine arts festival featuring juried artists from around the country, delicious cuisine and music takes place in downtown Gatlinburg on Saturday, May 16 and Sunday, May 17. Proceeds benefit the Sevier County Arts Council.

Information courtesy of Gatlinburg Department of Tourism

Gatlinburg Wins Kaleidoscope Award for Christmas Parade

The Gatlinburg Department of Tourism announced today that its Fantasy of Lights Christmas Parade has been recognized for excellence as presented at the Kaleidoscope Awards competition during the annual Southeast Festivals and Events Conference held earlier this week in Knoxville, Tenn.

The Gatlinburg Christmas parade won the silver Kaleidoscope Award for Best Festival or Event with a budget under $75,000 for its 33rd annual Fantasy of Lights event, which draws as many as 75,000 spectators and participants to the City for the early December event.

Gatlinburg entries also received honors for Best Website (silver), and for Best T-Shirt (bronze), for its www.gatlinburg.com and 2008 Ribfest & Wings entries, respectively.

Each year, the Southeast Festivals & Events affiliate of International Festivals and Events Association (IFEA) recognizes outstanding examples of quality and creativity in the programs and materials produced by festivals and events around the world, with the Kaleidoscope Awards. Events from Tennessee, Kentucky, Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, Alabama, Mississippi, and Florida were included in the competition.

Gatlinburg Special Events Manager George Hawkins acknowledged that, “Coming in second place was quite an accomplishment, seeing that this was the first time we had entered in the Kaleidoscope Awards competition for Gatlinburg. We are always proud and grateful for the hard work and efforts put into our events by staff and volunteers.”

This prestigious awards competition strives for the highest degree of excellence in festival and event promotions, and in doing so, has raised the standards and quality of special events industry-wide. During the awards program, top festivals and events throughout the southeast were recognized for their outstanding contribution to the festivals and events industry by receiving the prestigious Kaleidoscope Award. The awards program is sponsored by RCS Productions, Inc. of Atlanta.

The Gatlinburg Fantasy of Lights Christmas Parade was also honored in September of 2008 with a Grand Pinnacle Award (bronze) from IFEA during its international conference in Boise, Idaho.

Information courtesy of Sevier County News

Christmas Comes Early to Gatlinburg, Tennessee

It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas and it is not even March yet! Christmas is coming early to Gatlinburg, Tennessee as Santas, Mrs. Clauses, elves, helpers and reindeer from around the world prepare for the jolliest event ever seen - Celebrate Santa 2009.

Sleigh bells will be ringing as the Celebrate Santa Convention kicks off on March 16, 2009 at the W.L. Mills Auditorium and Convention Center with the opening ceremonies. The convention will continue until Wednesday March 18. For three days, workshops, exhibits, entertainment, vendors showcase and even a parade fill the agenda.

"Our workshops feature subjects that are important to Santas." Said Tim Mack, Executive Director of Celebrate Santa. "We have everything from history to hair care and beyond. There are even eight workshops for Mrs. Clauses and three for reindeer handlers. We are very pleased to have the Reindeer Owners & Breeders Association joining us with their own convention."

Special exhibits will be brought in from the National Christmas Center's curator Jim Morrison. Cases of historic artifacts of Santa Claus, Indiana will be on display from the Candy Castle's owner Kevin Klosowski. In addition, Santa memorabilia from the private collection of Santa Phillip L. Wenz will also be on display.

There will be entertainment offered by the local theaters of Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge. Shows include The Black Bear Jamboree, The Comedy Barn, and the Dixie Stampede Dinner Show. "A lot of the shows will be putting on their "Christmas Shows" during our convention." Mary Moore, co- coordinator of Celebrate Santa stated. "The whole region is rolling out the red carpet for us!"

The local public is invited to attend the spectacular Santa Showcase on the main floor of the Gatlinburg Convention Center. The showcase runs for the course of the convention. Everything from Santa suits to a personalize painting and Christmas related items will be featured. The Santa Showcase is open to the general public and admission is $3.00.

St. Nick meets St. Patrick in one of the most unique parades you will ever see. On March 17 the Holly and Shamrock Parade steps off in downtown Gatlinburg at 4:30PM. The parade will have floats, Santas, Mrs. Clauses and even Santa's spectacular Cyber Sleigh.

"We look forward to all the excitement that Celebrate Santa will provide for our attendees and the regional communities." Commented Joe Moore, co-coordinator. "If you have Christmas in your heart, then you will want to be at 'Santa Central' in beautiful Gatlinburg, Tennessee for the most fun and the best experience any Santa or Mrs. Claus could ever have!"

About Celebrate Santa
Celebrate Santa is an annual gathering and exposition for those who bring joy and happiness to children young and old through the portrayal of Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus. This annual event begins 2009 on the 70th anniversary of the very first official gathering of Santas in New York in 1939.

The three day event includes over 30 comprehensive workshops for those who wish to learn and improve upon their personification of Santa and Mrs. Claus. The in-depth educational sessions are conducted by seasoned Santa Claus professionals. Open during the event will be Santa's Showcase - a unique exhibition open to the public featuring thousands of Christmas and Santa Claus related products and services.

Information courtesy of PR Web

The Great Smoky Mountains Prepare for 75th Anniversary

Millions come to the Great Smoky Mountain National Park every year. This year, 2009, will certainly be no exception as the park prepares to celebrate the 75th anniversary of the official proclamation that gave birth to the park.

The question on many’s mind this year, however, is whether one of those millions will come to the Smokies and do what no one has done since President Franklin Delano Roosevelt.

Will President Barack Obama be only the second sitting president in history to visit, following in the footsteps of FDR?

The invitation has been sent. For now, it’s wait and see.

Park spokesman Bob Miller said the dedication event is the fifth in a year-long series of celebrations in 2009. The fifth event in the Park is Sept. 2, which is the date President Franklin Delano Roosevelt came to the park to dedicate it in 1940. “We’re looking at a big event at Newfound Gap with major dignitaries,” Miller said.

Miller said the Park Service hasn’t heard whether incoming President Barack Obama will attend.
“If President Obama were to come, he would be the first sitting president to visit the Smokies since FDR,” Miller said. “President Bush had planned to come here in 2005 and got rained out.”

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park straddles the state line between North Carolina and Tennessee.

Just as Park visitors pass from one state into the other, the theme for the Park’s 75th anniversary pays homage to the past while looking toward the future.

“We’re looking forward to this event this year. The overall arching theme of the 75th anniversary is celebrating the past and securing the future,” Miller said.

“We’re giving recognition to individuals and families who gave up property during the creation of the park. There was lots of sacrifice that went into the creation of the park. People had to give up land -- some grudgingly and some willingly. In all, 6,000 tracts of land were bought to create this park. Certainly some lives were disrupted. We wanted to recognize those people.”

Miller said the anniversary events would also recognize the hard work done to raise money to buy the tracts of land necessary for the Park. There was $5 million raised by the two states - $2 million by appropriation from both North Carolina and Tennessee. “That was a lot of money in 1920,” he said. “Another $1 million was raised by civic groups and individuals. Each county agreed to provide a certain amount of funding. That made up the $5 million raised that was then matched by John D. Rockefeller to purchase the land.”

Miller said Rockefeller got involved because he was a supporter of protecting old growth forests. Rockefeller has a broad legacy of supporting parks. He funded much of Arcadia and Grand Teton national parks and the U.S. Virgin Islands, Miller said.

“There were still remnants of old growth forests, and he felt it was worthy of preservation. His only request was that it be done in memory of his mother, Laura Spellman Rockefeller, and that a plaque be erected to that effect,” Miller said. “There is such a plaque at the Tennessee/North Carolina state line.”

Events for the anniversary also will celebrate the tremendous amount of hard work on the part of park employees and the Civilian Conservation Corps. The CCC was a public works program for young men created by the Roosevelt administration. “They had a major contribution in terms of building trails, roads, bridges and campgrounds. They have a rich legacy here,” Miller said.

Miller said Park supporters and officials will use the anniversary as an opportunity to generate awareness of issues the park faces such as air quality challenges, non-native species, aging infrastructure and operational needs.

“We want to generate support for future stewardship,” he said. “We look forward to engaging people in that process as much as we can.”

An anniversary website is already getting a lot of traffic, said Miller. The site, http://www.greatsmokies75th.org/, provides information about the CCC, a history of the Smokies long before the Park’s creation, the evolution of the Park idea in surrounding communities and milestones along the way toward its creation and development of the park. “Also on the website is a photo gallery where we invite people to send in and post up family pictures through the decades,” Miller said.

Miller said the website also will provide links to activities in surrounding communities - three in North Carolina and three in Tennessee - that are in addition to the activities in the park. These activities, said Miller, are consistent with the 75th anniversary message dealing with culture, history, natural resources and natural topics.

For example, Miller said activities outside the Park such as the Old Timers Day in Townsend would be integrated into the yearlong anniversary celebration because the Park is so integrated in the communities surrounding the National Park.

Inside the Park, the major activities planned are:

April 19 to 26: A proclamation by the governors of Tennessee and North Carolina is set for late April in the National Park Week, April 19 to 26.

“Basically it is an event that will be the kick off for tourism events in surrounding communities for the year,” Miller said.

June 13, 14 and 15: The actual “birthday” is June 15. “The actual signing of the parks’ enabling legislation that established the National Park was signed June 15, 1934,” Miller explained. Events are planned for June 13-15 in each of the Park’s three major visitor’s areas.

Of those three events, the Saturday, June 13, event in Cades Cove has created the most excitement. The Knoxville Symphony Orchestra will perform in the Cove, near Cable Mill.

“We’re working with the KSO to provide tickets in terms of a car pass system,” said Miller. “Cades Cove is a tough place to do business because there isn’t any infrastructure and parking is limited. We’re going to be able to issue some number of vehicle passes consistent with number of we can hold. We’re probably looking at between 1,500 and 2,000 cars, which could end up being between 4,000 to 8000 people.”

Miller said the number of people at the event isn’t the real issue. It’s the parking.

“Parking is our major stick-point. On the anniversary website, we’ll put up the process people need to do to get car passes. By the end of January we’ll have it on the website,” he said. “The passes will be sold through the KSO ticket system, and it will be a very modest cost compared with usual symphony tickets.”

On June 14 the Park Service will hold an open house at Sugarlands Visitor’s Center. “We’ll showcase the park operation,” Miller said. Aspects of the operation include wildlife management, engineering tasks like road improvements and dealing with the hemlock woolly adelgid, a non-native insect that is attacking Eastern hemlock trees in the Park. “Everything the park does will be showcased during the open house,” he said. “That will be at the headquarters near Gatlinburg.”

On June 15, the third day, is the anniversary of the dedication of the Oconaluftee Visitor Center at the Cherokee entrance to the Park. “The two big visitor centers are Cherokee and Gatlinburg. We actually have a groundbreaking scheduled for the new visitor’s center at Cherokee that will take place at that event,” Miller said.

The new visitor’s center will be funded by the Great Smoky Mountains Association, the non-profit entity that runs all park bookstores. They’ll pay more than $500,000 for the building and exhibits. “The current center is a 1,400 square foot building that was built in the 1940s as a ranger station,” Miller said. “It’s nowhere near the size it needs to be to host the number of visitors coming into the Park today.”

The last event is the Sept. 2 celebration of the dedication of the Park at Newfound Gap.

Information courtesy of Blount Today

Festival of Christmas Past Event set for Dec. 13

Great Smoky Mountains National Park has announced the 33rd annual "Festival of Christmas Past"celebration on Saturday, December 13, 2008, from 9:00 am-4:00 pm. The event is free to the public and will take place at Sugarlands Visitor Center, just outside of Gatlinburg.

Festival of Christmas Past is an annual celebration of the culture of the Great Smoky Mountains, with an emphasis on that special time of year, Christmas. "Mountain people worked hard all year, and looked forward to the religious significance of Christmas and the chance for social interaction in the various communities," said Park Ranger Kent Cave. "These folk gathered in churches, homes, and schools during the holidays, while also meeting others along roads and trails in the mountains. The holidays allowed people to combine religion, work, and social interaction in the mountain communities," he continued.

The festival at Sugarlands Visitor Center will feature a blend of mountain music, storytelling, crafts, and skills demonstrations ongoing throughout the day. The event schedule includes the following activities:

Sugarlands Visitor Center Theater

9:30 am - 11:00 am - Old Fashioned Harp Singing
11:15 am - 12:00 pm - Lost Mill String Band
12:00 pm - 1:00 pm - Storytelling with Cuz and Jan Headrick
1:00 pm - 2:00 pm - Stories of the Past (panel discussion with area residents)
2:00 pm - 3:00 pm - Bill Proffitt and South of the River Boys
3:00 - 4:00 pm - Boogertown Gap Band

Other Activities in and around the visitor center

"When the Park Was New" (portrayal of first park superintendent J. Ross Eakin by park staff - 2:00 pm to 2:30 pm
Recitation of "The Night Before Christmas" by Morgan Briggs - 2:30 pm to
3:00 pm
Blacksmithing with master blacksmith Clayton Sharp
Domestic Arts and Fabric Spinning with Dale Liles and Jenny Bennett
Quilting and Weaving with Effie Suttles and Ellen Ogle
Mountain Basketweaving with Connie and Mack Clabo
Broom Making with David Higgins
MountainBerry Baskets with Bill Alexander
Lye Soap Making with Sallie Swor
Fabric Dyeing with Park Ranger Lisa Free
Christmas Craft Table with Vicki and Liza Law
Traditional Pine Cone Bird Feeders with Sherry Jennette and Sydney Frey

"Festival of Christmas Past" is sure to provide something for almost every interest in Appalachian skills and history, and everyone is cordially invited to attend this free event. For more information, please phone the Sugarlands Visitor Center at 865-436-1291.

Information courtesy of Gatlinburg Chamber of Commerce

Gatlinburg December Events 2008

December Events in Gatlinburg 2008

December 1 - December 31: Gatlinburg Winter Magic Trolley Ride of Lights
Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies Plaza. Enjoy the spectacular lighting displays of Gatlinburg Winter Magic from the comfort of a trolley. For advanced reservations call 865-436-0535.

December 1 - 7: Christmas Arts and Crafts Show
Great Smoky Arts and Crafts Community. 800-568-4748.

December 1 - 31: Gatlinburg Winter Magic
You've got to see this! Over 3 million illuminated LED lights literally light the town! Animated displays, illuminated forests with lighted animals native to the Great Smoky Mountains. and twinkling lights galore.

December 1 - February 28: Smoky Mountain Winterfest
Named “Top 20 Events” by the Southeast Tourism Society, this four-month celebration transforms Gatlinburg into a gorgeous winter wonderland. November through February.

December 5: 32nd Annual "Fantasy of Lights" Christmas Parade
Bring the kids, bundle up and enjoy more than 100 parade entries, marching bands, millions of lights and giant helium balloons with special guests Santa Claus and his elves. Parade begins at 7:30 pm at light 1A and continues to light 10. 800-568-4748.

December 31: 20th Annual New Year's Eve Fireworks Show and Ball Drop
The Space Needle at light 8. Join the crowd of 40,000 for a street party including free party favors, hats, tiaras, a fireworks show and live entertainment. 11 p.m. - 12:30 a.m. on New Year’s Day

Fantasy of Lights Christmas Parade in Gatlinburg

Special appearances by a pair of United States Olympic medalists and the Wells Fargo Stagecoach highlight the lineup for Gatlinburg’s 33rd annual Fantasy of Lights Christmas Parade on December 5.

The City of Gatlinburg invites you to bundle up and generate a spirited dose of holiday cheer at 7:30 p.m. on Friday, December 5 in Downtown, with more than 100 parade entries including marching bands and giant helium balloons taking to the streets.

Abbott, the former University of Tennessee southpaw pitcher, played a large role in the success of the USA’s silver medal-winning softball team at this summer’s Olympic Games in Beijing, China.

Stone, a resident of Kodak and veteran of the U.S. Army’s 7th Infantry, is a Paralympic archer who was a member of the first American team to ever win a medal for archery, capturing bronze at the 2004 Paralympic Games in Athens, Greece.

The Wells Fargo Stagecoach is a living symbol of the Old West. Built high and wide to handle the rough, rutted roads of a new country, the design of a classic American vehicle was perfected in Concord, N.H. Carriage builder J. Stephens Abbot and master wheelwright Lewis Downing built the famed stagecoaches which weighed about 2,500 pounds and cost $1,100 each, including leather and damask cloth interior.

The Wells, Fargo & Company’s Express office opened in Memphis in 1899. The stage route covered a total of 2,757 miles. Day and night, the stagecoach rolled on at 5 to 12 miles per hour across vast, treeless plains, jagged mountain passes, scorching deserts and rivers cursed with quicksand. The coach stopped only to change horses or let passengers slug down a cup of coffee with their beef jerky and biscuits. It took 25 days to travel from St. Louis to San Francisco.

In addition, the parade will include a band of SMART Cars. SMART is an acronym for "Swatch Mercedes Art." Each car measures only 81/2 ft x 5 feet and weighs 1,800 pounds. They are gas-powered but get 45 to 50 miles per gallon and are 95% recyclable. It is the only car in production that is also found in the Museum of Art in New York. It also boasts a 4 star crash test rating.
No less than 10 marching bands are scheduled to participate, with appearances by Miss Cherokee from the Qualla Indian Reservation in Cherokee, N.C., and the Polar Express Train Caboose from Alabama, as well as "Little Joe," the World’s Tiniest Trick Horse standing 17 inches high at 50 pounds.

Santa’s Autograph Party cranks up at 6 p.m. at Riverbend Mall, in the midst of a main viewing area for the Parade at Traffic Light #3 in front of the Gatlinburg Welcome Center. The parade begins at Traffic Light #1A on Hwy 321 and ends about an hour-and-a-half later at Traffic Light #10.

Pre-parade performances by Sweet Fanny Adams Theatre, Ginger Brown’s Academy of Performing Arts, Elizabeth Williams Dance Academy, and the Winter Tunes & Tales Carolers are also planned.

Jamming sidewalks and balconies along the parade route, a crowd in excess of 70,000 people is expected to soak up the illuminating festivities during this third phase of Gatlinburg Winter Magic, the City of Gatlinburg’s popular holiday lights program which has received a $1.5 million injection of new displays plus a 100-percent conversion to energy-efficient LED bulbs over the past three years.

The parade telecast will be rebroadcast on Charter Cable channel 16 in Sevier, Blount, Monroe, Loudon, Jefferson, Cocke and Hamblen counties as well as Farragut at 9 p.m. on December 12, 13, 14, 19, 20, & 21.

Information courtesy of Gatlinburg.com

Holiday Arts & Crafts Show in Gatlinburg

Arts and crafts have long held a deep association with the Southern Appalachian Mountains. Nowhere else in the South will you find a richer heritage of fine craftsmanship than in Gatlinburg. Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community, established in 1937, is the largest group of independent artisans in North America. Located on an eight-mile loop at the northeast edge of Gatlinburg, the Community proudly preserves the craft heritage of the Great Smoky Mountains year-round. This area offers you the best in a wide range of craft shops, including pottery, woodcarving, candlemaking, quilting, weaving, broommaking, and painting, among many other fine art forms.

Get a head start on your Christmas shopping at our Christmas Craft Show beginning on Thanksgiving week, November 25 - December 7. Doors open at 10am daily and as usual the admission is free to everyone! Shop in the comfort of the Gatlinburg Convention Center amidst the holiday decor and surroundings. This will surely get you in the Christmas mood and kick your holidays off just right. Give a craft for Christmas... it's sure to be the most unique gift you can give and it's one-of-a-kind!

Some of our craftsmen (and women) have been at it all their lives, they were born into it from the beginning. Many are second, third and even fourth generation artisans. They make their living the same way our pioneers did as the United States was developing way back in the 1760's & 70's - why old Ben Franklin and Tom Jefferson would be proud! Yes, everything you'll see at our Craft Show is handmade right here in the United States of America. "Handmade in the USA"

Giving and receiving a handcrafted piece of work is most exciting, it is like starting a heirloom in your family. There's not many things you can buy that are truly handmade the old fashioned way but here in Gatlinburg we've been known for our crafts and art for over 200 years. We brag of our largest group of independent artists and craftsmen in the nation.

Information courtesy of Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community

Gatlinburg Salutes Veterans with Special Celebration

The 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month has been revered dating back to 1918 as Americans honor the men and women who have served in the United States Armed Forces.
The City of Gatlinburg will salute our nation’s heroes, the Veterans, at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, November 11 with an appropriate Veterans Day Celebration on Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies Plaza. The event will recognize vets in attendance by branch of service and will feature music, words of inspiration, and much more.

Highlights of the celebration include a flyover of a Tennessee Air National Guard KC-135 Stratotanker from the 134th Air Refueling Wing based in Knoxville, music from Gatlinburg-Pittman High School Band and Walters State Community College singers, an American Bald Eagle appearance courtesy of American Eagle Foundation, and remarks from Tennessee’s Adjutant General, Major General Gus L. Hargett, Jr.

MG Hargett, who commands the Tennessee Army National Guard, Tennessee Air National Guard, Tennessee State Guard, and Tennessee Emergency Management Agency was appointed to the state’s top military position in 2002, and reappointed by Governor Phil Bredesen in 2003. He is responsible for the supervision of the Military Department of Tennessee.

The KC-135 Stratotanker provides the core aerial refueling capability for the United States Air Force and has excelled in this role for more than 50 years. This unique asset enhances the Air Force's capability to accomplish its primary missions of Global Reach and Global Power. It also provides aerial refueling support to Air Force, Navy and Marine Corps and allied nation aircraft.
The Honor Guard for the event will be members of 14th Weather Squadron, Air Force Combat Climatology Center’s Special Ceremonies Team from Asheville, N.C. The AFCCC uses historical weather data to develop and produce special weather-impact information used in planning and executing Department of Defense worldwide military operations and in engineering weapon system design and employment.

The Master of Ceremonies for the Veterans Day Celebration will be noted motivational speaker and author Carl Mays of Gatlinburg. Drawing from his solid background in business and athletics, along with degrees in psychology and communications, Mays is a much-requested speaker.

Information courtesy of City Of Gatlinburg

Gatlinburg's Trolley of Lights Tour Shines During Christmas Season

The best way to view the more than 40 lighting displays and numerous other lights featured in Gatlinburg Winter Magic is to hop aboard the Trolley Ride of Lights and take a leisurely ride through the city. Trolleys depart from the Gatlinburg Aquarium Welcome Center at Traffic Light No. 5 (Mass Transit Center) at 6:30, 7:30, and 8:30 p.m. nightly from November through December 30 excluding Dec. 1, 24 and 25, then continue every Saturday night during January. The Trolley Ride of Lights is a guided narrative tour that lasts approximately 45 minutes. This year tickets are only $4 and advance reservations can be made at the Aquarium Welcome Center or by calling 865/436-0535. Group reservations are also welcomed.

Among the charming displays of Gatlinburgs Winter Magic are an animated trolley, a winking welcome bear, dancing bears, toy soldiers, hot air balloons and several craftsmen at work. But that's not all; the rest is a secret until you embark on the Trolley Ride of Lights! To add to the facade, a Smoky Mountain Romance theme featuring symbols of love are incorporated in lighting displays during February.

Gatlinburg Winterfest has been recognized as a Top Twenty Event in the South by the Southeast Tourism Society several times and by the American Bus Association as a Top 100 Event in North America.

Information courtesy of Gatlinburg Department of Tourism

November Events in Gatlinburg

Event Name: Trolley Ride of Lights
Date(s): November 5, 2008 - January 31, 2009
Season: Fall, Winter
Category: Entertainment
Description: Enjoy a guided trolley ride of Gatlinburg's spectacular Winter Magic lighting displays. Departure from Mass Transit/Trolley Center at Ripley's Aquarium Plaza. Tours leave nightly at 6:30 p.m., 7:30 p.m., 8:30 p.m. beginning November 5 except on December 5, 24, 25 & 31, and run each Saturday in January.
Call 865/436-0535 for reservations.
Contact Info: (865) 436-0535
Admission: $5.00

Event Name: Veteran's Day Celebration
Date(s): November 11
Season: Fall
Category: History
Description: Musical tributes, spoken salutations and an American Eagle appearance all pay homage when the City of Gatlinburg hosts its annual Veterans Day Celebration at Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies Plaza downtown.
Admission: Free

Event Name: Festival of Trees & Nutcracker "Sweet"
Date(s): November 25 - 29
Season: Fall
Category: Arts, Entertainment
Description: Dozens upon dozens of ornately decorated Christmas trees await visitors to this Winter Wonderland at W. L. Mills Conference Center Tuesday through Saturday from 4 - 7pm, sponsored this year by Smoky Mountain Area Rescue Ministries. Admission is free to the Festival of Trees. For festival information, call 800/568-4748,

Additionally, savor the sights and sounds of the holiday season on Friday & Saturday with the 7pm presentation of Nutcracker "Sweet" by the Smoky Mountain Dance Theater Company in Mills Auditorium. For performance ticket sales & reservations, call 865/680-7369.
Admission: see detail

Event Name: Holiday Arts & Crafts Show
Date(s): November 25 - December 7
Season: Fall, Winter
Category: Arts
Description: Unique handcrafted gifts made by members of Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community as they host their annual show.
Website/Link: http://www.gatlinburgcrafts.com/
Admission: Free

Event Name: Fantasy of Lights Christmas Parade
Date(s): December 5
Season: Winter
Category: Entertainment, Parades
Description: Gatlinburg’s Winterfest Celebration features the 33rd Annual Fantasy of Lights Christmas Parade at 7:30 p.m. on Friday, December 5, 2008. With millions of twinkling lights and more than 100 parade entries, Gatlinburg’s Fantasy of Lights Christmas Parade is the perfect way to get the holiday season off to an illuminating start!
Enjoy lighted floats, marching bands, and giant helium balloons. Special appearance by Santa himself.
Admission: Free


Event Name: Christmas On Ice
Date(s): December 6 - 7
Season: Winter
Category: Arts, Entertainment
Description: The annual “Christmas on Ice Show” at the Ober Gatlinburg Ice Skating Arena features local amateur skaters performing ice skating routines to traditional Christmas music, choreographed by rink instructor Devon Harman. Show time Saturday is 7:00p.m. and Sunday night performance begins at 5:00p.m.

The indoor Ice Skating Arena is the centerpiece of Ober Gatlinburg’s 62,000 square foot upper Tram Terminal and Mall. The ice arena, crafts market, scenic chairlift, alpine slide, and aerial tramway are all open year round.

For more information contact Ober Gatlinburg at 865/436-5423.
Website/Link: http://www.obergatlinburg.com

Contact Info:
Toll-Free: 800/251-9202
Admission: Free

Information courtesy of Gatlinburg Chamber of Commerce

Gatlinburg Winter Magic Festivities Begin November 5

Visitors of all ages can marvel at the traditional mountain scenes, colorful winter displays, playful teddy bears and other familiar, much-beloved displays both downtown and along Hwy. 321 which have been making Gatlinburg a must-see destination for both the young and young at heart for years.

Adjacent to the famous Parkway, River Road features a “magical” touch along the popular Riverwalk area, where the romantic arched walkway is enhanced by a pair of graceful 40-foot swans and several ornate floral representations to set the tone for romance in lovers of all ages.
The convergence of the Parkway and River Road forms the landmark downtown triangle that is transformed into a cluster of tall evergreens swirled in color, certain to become a popular photographic backdrop as visitors enter the above two sections on foot or via the Parkway. Smoky Mountain Romance touches are added in several display areas after the holidays, with wild animal scenes, winter forests and swirling trees accenting the season.

“With Gatlinburg Winter Magic, we will continue to glorify the winter landscape of Gatlinburg forever,” said Perella. “You’ve not experienced winter until you see the lights of Gatlinburg again.” Gatlinburg Winter Magic has been named a Top 20 Event by the Southeast Tourism Society.

Winter Magic Tunes & Tales begins during the holiday season, where visitors can meet characters and storytellers and enjoy caroling and entertainment along the Parkway weekend evenings.

Seven quartets of holiday carolers dressed in traditional Victorian era costumes will roam the streets of Gatlinburg on Friday and Saturday evenings from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. through December 20. The carolers will be delivered throughout the city by horse drawn wagons & carriages and sing a capella classics of the season.

During the magical Friday and Saturday nights of Winter Magic Tunes & Tales, Santa Claus & Mrs. Claus will be on hand to meet with children of all ages at the Riverbend Mall. Zeno the Gatlinburg Bear will also be skipping hibernation this year to make appearances and greet holiday visitors on the streets.

On Friday nights on the Parkway, a Yule Log fireside sing-along will take place for the whole family to get together and sing their favorite holiday season songs.

Information courtesy of Gatlinburg Department of Tourism

Gatlinburg ScreenFest Film Festival A Reel Good Time

Gatlinburg Screenfest, the city of Gatlinburg’s first annual film festival has been set for March 13-15, 2009. The festival will feature independent films and filmmakers from all over the nation.

Screenfest will incorporate a true festival atmosphere with vendor booths, games, events, and attractions along with the traditional movie screenings. All of the events will be Hollywood-themed including the opening-night costume party and the closing night awards ceremony, which will consist of a red-carpet and black-tie dinner.

“Our intentions are to create a fun atmosphere for families and movie-goers while promoting the art of independent filmmakers. There are so many talented actors and directors in the area, and until now they have not had a local venue to present their work,” says festival Creative Director Amy Garland. “The main focus at this point is to let everyone know that we have recognized a need, and we are working to fill it.”

Five theaters have been designed in convention settings with various Hollywood themes, one of which is specifically reserved for youth submissions. The set up will also include a ticket booth and theater-style lobby.

Gatlinburg Screenfest is accepting submissions now through December 1, 2008. The festival directors have a high school and college campus tour scheduled. Garland expects targeting students will increase diversity in the submissions. “Teenagers and young adults bring with them a completely different set of expectations to a project than adult filmmakers. We look forward to seeing what they have to offer.” She also adds that both fall break and Thanksgiving break from classes may offer a time advantage over working artists. “To have friends available to work as cast and crew during a school break could definitely boost productivity.”

Of the submissions, ten adult and ten youth films will be screened at the festival. Prizes will be awarded to the top three highest rated films in each category, as well as a Viewer’s Choice prize.

Information courtesy of Gatlinburg Screenfest Film Festival

Winter Magic Kicks Off With Chili Cook-off in Gatlinburg

Winter Magic Kickoff & Chili Cookoff

Date: November 5

Season: Fall
Category: Entertainment, Fundraiser, Food

Bring your appetite and a willingness to sample new or improved recipes when the City hosts its 19th Annual Winter Magic kickoff featuring the Chili Cookoff on Wednesday, November 5, in downtown Gatlinburg!

Chili vendors will serve up the most mouth-watering recipes of mild and delightful to wild and adventurous homemade chili in portions suitable for sampling, then you will get to cast your vote for People’s Choice Award once you have been pleasantly filled. Judges will also select winners in categories including best taste, booth presentation, design of aprons and most unique chili name.
Admission is only $8 for a spoon and a voting ballot, and the evening’s program includes the “flip of the switch” for the third phase of the Gatlinburg Winter Magic lights program, so come on down! Gatlinburg Winter Magic is a new era of winter-long visual entertainment in Gatlinburg.

Information courtesy of Gatlinburg Chamber of Commerce

Gatlinburg Craftsmen's Fair Begins October 9th

Autumn’s brisk air signals all of nature to transform the Great Smoky Mountains from lush green to a majestic patchwork quilt of colors. The celebration of fall also encompasses one of the southeast’s most popular events - The 33rd Annual Gatlinburg Craftsmen’s Fair. From October 9th through 26th, the Gatlinburg Convention Center converts into a multi level mecca of the top craft people from all across the U.S.

Promoters Sam and Tracey Large have developed and coordinated this event for three decades, as it attracts over 180 of America’s finest craft people. The Gatlinburg Craftsmen’s Fair is recognized as one of the top 20 events in the southeastern U.S. by the Southeast Tourism Society.

"A unique characteristic of the Gatlinburg Craftsmen’s Fair is the fact that artisans not only make their art available for viewing and sale, but also demonstrate their special talents and skills."

One such craft person is potter David Howard who discovered his interest in clay while taking pottery electives as an undergraduate at the University of Montevallo in Alabama. Twenty years later his hobby has turned into a full time vocation. Howard’s work is primarily traditional and functional folk pottery reminiscent of the 1800’s. Dishes, bowls, cups, plates, lamps and other fine pieces are all microwave and dishwasher safe. All of Howard’s pieces are finished with a lead-free glaze. "One of the greatest joys I have is when someone tells me they use my coffee mug every day," added Howard. His production consists of about 250 original pieces of art each week and he looks forward to the craftsmen’s fair this fall.

Another craftsman who is very familiar with the success and popularity of the Gatlinburg Craftsmen’s Fair is Charles Adams, of Troy, Alabama, who has expertly created a unique collection of stained glass works, including windows, doors, clocks, tiffany style lamps, kaleidoscopes, sun catchers and perhaps his specialty...stained glass angels. Charles has been participating in the Gatlinburg Craftsmen’s Fair for nearly 18 years and although he designs inventory for over 3 months, in preparation for the show, he says, "I still rarely have enough merchandise to meet the demand found at this show. I’ve met people at the show from throughout the U.S. as well as Germany and England. In fact a gentlemen from Texas ordered a 5 foot stained glass angel for his church and sent a driver to pick it up so it wouldn’t get broken." The Gatlinburg Craftsmen’s Fair continues to be a highlight for Charles, each and every year.

Randy McGovern, wildlife artist from Acworth, Georgia, was spotted by his fourth grade teacher as a potential artist and advised his parents to send him to art lessons. Working in a precise realistic style in oils, McGovern feels compelled to portray animals in their most noble character. "I love to create moods through the use of light sources and rich colors," McGovern added. He is best known for his ability to hide a number of hidden creatures in each of his paintings. McGovern feels that hiding creatures is actually a function of being a realist since so many of God’s creatures are naturally camouflaged in their surroundings.

So as you can see, this event is indeed a favorite among the nation’s best crafts people. Fair promoters take great pride in the quality level of the show which is assured by each entrant being juried for quality and unusual skill. Although more than 80% of the participants in the show are typically perennial favorites, new exhibitors join the show each year, so there is always something new and fresh for visitors to look forward to.

So make your plans now...visit the Gatlinburg Craftsmen’s Fair, but be sure that you give yourself plenty of time because you will not want to miss all that this year’s fair has to offer...including the country, blue grass and gospel music of Keith Longbotham and Band, Tim Watson and Blackcreek and on selected dates Dennis Lee and Band.

The 33rd Annual Gatlinburg Craftsmen’s Fair will be held October 9th through 26th at the Gatlinburg Convention Center. Hours are 10am to 7pm daily, 10am to 5pm on Sundays. Music shows are 1, 3 and 5pm daily. For additional information call 865-436-7479 or visit our website, www.craftsmenfair.com

Gatlinburg is a Bird Watchers Paradise during Fall

The beautiful fall foliage of Gatlinburg is not the only aerial attraction for skyward-gazing, nature-oriented travelers to the Gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains. Gatlinburg is home to over 240 species of birds – making it the perfect fall travel destination for bird enthusiasts.

Birders who visit Gatlinburg this fall will have the opportunity to see the elusive Broad-winged Hawk, Sharp-shinned hawk, Cooper’s hawk, Northern Harriers, and other majestic species flying among the spectacular autumn leaf display. Fall is a time of transition for birds, allowing for an even wider variety of birding options. Even as migrating birds depart, winter birds such as Purple Finch, Evening Grosbeak and Swamp Sparrow begin arriving. In the fall, the experienced birder is able to enjoy the sport of seeking birds wearing a sometimes-confusing molted fall plumage. Throughout the fall, bird species are beginning their migrations to and from the Smoky Mountains – increasing the potential variety of birds spotted.

“Birding is a popular pastime with an estimated 50 million birders in the U.S. today, and Gatlinburg wants to be part of this growing phenomenon,” said David Perella, executive director of the Gatlinburg Department of Tourism. “The fall offers an opportunity for a unique experience for birders.”

On any given day in the Great Smoky Mountains, birders can see upwards of 25 separate bird species. The Great Smoky Mountains are home to 120 species of birds that breed throughout the National Park, and are the permanent home to over 60 species. Hundreds of other bird species travel through the Smoky Mountains during their annual migrations.

While in the area for entertainment, fall foliage or bird watching, stay in a Gatlinburg Cabin for a completely relazing and rejuvenating experience.

Information courtesy of Seymour Herald

Gatlinburg Presents Several Ways to Have Fun this Fall

Gatlinburg has plenty of fun activities to take advantage of in the upcoming week:

Old Fashioned Wagon Rides
Date(s): September 1 - November 30
Season: Fall
Category: Entertainment, Fundraiser
Description: Kick back and enjoy a nostalgic, fun-filled wagon ride in downtown Gatlinburg, including views of Great Smoky Mountains National Park that surrounds Gatlinburg on three sides as well as several Gatlinburg Winter Magic lighting displays beginning in November.
Departure is at Traffic Light #6 at Mountain Mall. Rides run from 5 p.m. - 9 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and leave approximately every 45 minutes. Proceeds benefit United Way.
Contact Info: 865/436-0535
Admission: $4.00

Wholly Frijoles Sports Clays Shoot
Date(s): September 27
Season: Fall
Category: Entertainment
Description: Entry fee is $50 for 100 targets, with a limit of 30 entries. Shooting starts at 10 a.m. at the Gatlinburg Sportsman's Club shooting range located at 649 King Branch Road, just off the Spur. Lunch includes pintos and cornbread. Cash prize will be awarded for Highest Overall Average and Runner-up, as well as a ticket drawing. The game will consist of 100 targets using 12 stations and follow NSCA rules.
For more information, call (865) 436-0271.
Website/Link: http://www.gatlinburgsportsman.com/
Contact Info: (865) 436-0271
Admission: Yes

Gatlinburg United Way Shark Race
Date(s): September 27
Season: Fall
Category: Entertainment, Fundraiser
Description: Festivities begin on Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies Plaza with live entertainment, food, and fun. A $10 ticket provides the opportunity to win fantastic grand prizes. At 3 p.m., rubber sharks will be released into the Little Pigeon River, first one to cross the finish line wins a Ford F-150 for two years and Sea-Doo watercraft! Proceeds of raffle benefit United Way of Sevier County.
Website/Link: http://www.uwosc.org/deliv/shark.htm
Contact Info: 865/453-4261
Admission: Entry Fee

Taste of Autumn Returns to Gatlinburg this Fall

Featuring the fare of approximately 20 of the area’s finest restaurants and businesses, the return performance of jazz performer Karen Johns and a live auction, the Taste of Autumn returns to the Gatlinburg Convention Center on Thursday, September 18, all to benefit the United Way of Sevier County.

“For the past eleven years, the Taste has always delivered a fun and tasty way to help the United Way of Sevier County,” commented Jon Elder, Special Events Coordinator for the City of Gatlinburg. For a $25 donation to the United Way of Sevier County, attendees can enjoy unlimited sampling from all the participating vendors plus the return of the jazzy sounds of Karen Johns & Company from Nashville, Tennessee.

One hundred percent of the proceeds from the Taste of Autumn go to the 2008 United Way of Sevier County Campaign. Participating vendors include All Sauced Up, Blaine’s Restaurant, Bubba Gump Shrimp Company, Calhoun’s Restaurant, Charles Richard Resources, Cherokee Grill, Fox & Parrott Tavern, Gatlinburger, Guarino’s Italian, Hard Rock Café, Knoxville Coca-Cola, Nifty Fifties Café, No Way Jose’s, Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies, Smoky Mountain Brewery, Smoky Mountain Winery, Smoky’s Pub and Grub, The Lodge at Buckberry Creek, and Touch of Love Catering.

“Last year we had a great response to Karen Johns & Company and her beautiful jazz performance and we wanted to keep that same classy feel to the Taste this year,” said Elder. “We are very happy to have her back again.” Though Johns has been performing since 1983, Karen Johns & Company was formed only in 2004, and since then has performed across the Southeast with recent appearances at the Faces of Art Masquerade at the Tennessee Art League in Nashville, the French Quarter Café in Nashville, and a private party for former Vice President Al Gore.

As part of the fundraising activities, a live auction will be held with auctioneer services provided by Thompson-Carr & Associates. The United Way of Sevier County distributes funds to local organizations providing services and programs to our community. Tickets are available at the Gatlinburg Welcome Centers on the Spur and at the Aquarium as well as on-line at www.uwosc.org. Table reservations are also available. Doors open at 5:30 p.m., with tickets available at the door. To sign up as a vendor, or volunteer, or for more information, please call the Special Events Office at 436-0500.

Information courtesy of Seymour Herald News

Smoky Mountain Harvest Festival in Gatlinburg Underway

If you’re coming to the mountains, it only makes sense to stay in the mountains, and autumn is worthy of a front-row seat in Gatlinburg. The harvest season of September finds the folks of Gatlinburg decorating and celebrating the beginning of fall, and the Great Smoky Mountains share center stage with the Gatlinburg Craftsmen’s Fair during the month of October.

September’s warm, sunny days and cool, clear nights mix with just the right amount of rain to transform 800 square miles of lush green forest into a brilliant palette of vibrant autumnal colors. Third-generation artisans and storekeepers strive to match the beauty of the autumn mountains by carrying the same colors into often-elaborate storefront decorations, thus turning their little mountain town into a promenade of Southern Appalachian sights. Arts and crafts have long held a deep association with the Southern Appalachian Mountains. Nowhere else in the South will you find a richer heritage of fine craftsmanship than in Gatlinburg. The Great Smoky Arts and Crafts Community, established in 1937, is the largest group of independent artisans in North America. Located on an eight-mile loop at the northeast corner of Gatlinburg, the Community proudly preserves the craft heritage of the Great Smoky Mountains year-round.

This area offers the best in a wide range of craft shops, including pottery, woodcarving, candle making, quilting, weaving, broom making, and painting, among many other fine art forms. Gatlinburg also is home to the world-renowned Arrowmont School of Arts and Crafts. Founded in 1945, Arrowmont offers summer and spring workshops and an array of special conferences for all levels of students in craft-art media. The art galleries at Arrowmont are open for tours of select collections throughout the year. From October 9 through 26, 2008, the award-winning Gatlinburg Craftsmen’s Fair opens the doors of the Gatlinburg Convention Center to the public with the 33rd Annual Fall Gatlinburg Craftsmen’s Fair. Numerous artisans and craftspeople are on-hand each day to demonstrate their skills, answer questions, and offer their unique art for sale.

Information courtesy of Gatlinburg Chamber of Commerce

Gatlinburg Hosts National Storytelling Conference & Concerts

Storytelling is the highlight event in early August in Gatlinburg, and the public has a chance to listen in. On Friday, Aug. 8 from 7 to 9 p.m., the National Storytelling Conference’s regional concert will showcase members from all seven regions of the country. Featured performers include Esther Culver, Meg Gilman, Linda Gorham, Elaine Muray, Priscilla Howe, LynnAnn Wojciechowicz and Julie Pasqual, with Yvonne Healy serving as emcee. Tickets are $10.

Then on Saturday, Aug. 9 from 7 to 9 p.m., NSN’s national concert showcases four of the most acclaimed storytellers in the nation including Diane Ferlatte, Doc McConnell, Motoko and Connie Regan-Blake, with Jim May serving as emcee. Tickets are $15.

NSN also offers an option for folks who are REALLY interested in storytelling in the form of a $100 all-inclusive Concert Package that allows folks to come to the two events featured above in addition to:

*Any of the conference’s eight state showcases spotlighting the Southeast Region, including Tennessee, throughout the day in 90 minute blocks from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday.

*“Fringe” performances during the day and also late evenings (some have adult content warnings) on Thursday (10 to 11 p.m.), Friday (9:30 to 10:30 p.m.), and Saturday (9:30 to 10:30 p.m.).

*Story “Swaps” where folks can sign up to tell their own stories (during same evening times as Fringe performances).

For storytelling concert tickets or package information, please call Karin Hensley at 800-525-4514, ext. 303, through July 31. Tickets will also be available at the door.

Gatlinburg's 4th of July Midnight Parade highlights Armed Forces

A celebration isn't a celebration without a parade, and a parade just isn't a parade without at least one band.

Therefore, for the 33rd consecutive year, the city of Gatlinburg will go all out to celebrate July 4th with its Fourth of July Midnight Parade, the nation's first celebratory parade of Independence Day.

The U.S. Army's 129th Marching Band from Nashville will lead the parade, which will focus on showcasing all four branches of the military not only in the parade, but throughout the weekend.
"All other units in the parade, including the Army support vehicles, will fall in behind the Army band as our grand marshals," said George Hawkins, director of special events for the city. "The band is our thank you to the military for participating in our parade, and for what they do for us. We are very excited about the entire weekend of events, which will include a four-day festival highlighting our armed services; this will be one of the most patriotic and colorful midnight parades the city of Gatlinburg has ever produced."

Also appearing in the parade is the University of Detroit Mercy School of Law with its Project SALUTE RV (Students And lawyers Assisting U.S. Troops Everywhere), which offers low-income veterans free legal assistance with their federal benefits, while giving hands-on experience to law students. The 31-foot RV will visit over 60 U.S. cities to help veterans.
Another military presence will be Tennessee Helping Hearts, a nonprofit organization that does all it can to help veterans. Riding that float will be a group of Gold Star Mothers, women whose son or daughter has died while on active duty with the military. Another float will showcase the Soldier's Quilt featuring 112 pictures of American soldiers.

Other events featured Friday are the Army Concert Band playing from 8 to 10 p.m. on the Aquarium Plaza and opening the city's fireworks show by playing "The Stars and Stripes Forever." And, at 10 a.m. Friday the River Raft Regatta, a free event for anything that floats, will begin.

Information courtesy of The Mountain Press

33rd Annual Gatlinburg Craftsmen's Fair Opens July 18

Voted one of the South’s most popular summer events, Gatlinburg readies itself for the 33rd Annual Gatlinburg Craftsmen’s Fair. Over 180 craftspeople will be exhibiting and demonstrating their crafts at the Gatlinburg Convention Center this July 18 through 27. During these dates the Gatlinburg Convention Center transforms into an enormous multi-level community of craftspeople from all over the U.S. The Thirtythird Annual Gatlinburg Craftsmen’s Fair will host some of the country’s finest artisans that display and demonstrate their most special and talented skills.

Sam and Tracey Large have developed this event that encompasses nearly three decades of dedication, coordination and planning. "We are so fortunate to be able to offer such a wide variety of talents and products for our visitors to enjoy. We take great pride in the quality
level of our craftspeople.” Each entrant is juried for quality and unusual skill. "About 80% of our participants are perennial favorites who are returning, however new exhibitors join the show every year so there is always something new, exciting and fresh for our guests to look forward to."

Artist David Ogle of Gatlinburg, TN, who along with his wife, Tammie, carry on a family tradition...the masterful creation of handmade brooms with beautifully carved handles. As third generation of craftsmen they are carrying a tradition that has been in their family for well over 70 years. David has been practicing and developing his craft since the age of 13. His combination of skilled hands along with nature’s wide array of shapes allow him to produce one of a kind brooms, hiking sticks and walking canes that most would label as true works of art.

A fascination with the spirituality of nature attracted "Zera," Sandy Hensley, at an early age. Each sleek, sophisticated and unique piece of jewelry that she manufactures is handcrafted in a variety of mixed metals; gold, silver and some with semi-precious stones. The way nature intertwines elements in perfect harmony to create things of beauty is her guiding force and inspiration. Her latest creations include the new millennium collection. Pendants, neck rings and bracelets, all with free form designs, embody elements that are ancient as well as modern. "Zera" added, "It is my hope that these designs may inspire you as well as open your own
personal interpretation."

Artist Nancy Wilson, of Sevierville, TN, who along with her husband, have developed their craft by “taking what you have and creating a visual art form”. Their business, which is called “Art of the Past”, features “historic American folk art," made up of some fascinating collectibles such as wood carvings, dolls, toys, circus animals and hand paintings, just to name a few. All of the items they create are made from “pieces of history”...discarded furniture, buttons, tin, old fabrics, leather, nails...even some animal hair. Each piece of material has its own interesting story and with the help of some very gifted hands is transformed into an authentic American art form.
Nancy considers the Gatlinburg Craftsmen’s Fair a very special show “full of variety and highly accommodating for both craftspeople and visitors.”

For those attending this summer’s event, give yourself plenty of time to see all that the show has to offer. When it’s time for a break, you can relax and enjoy the country, blue grass and gospel music of Keith Longbotham and Band. Dennis Lee and Band will also play selected dates. It’s a lot of fun and great entertainment for your entire family.

Make your plans now to attend the 33rd Annual Summer Craftsmen’s Fair...

July 18 thru 27. Hours are 10am to 7pm daily and 10am to 5pm on Sundays. Music shows are 1, 3 and 5pm daily 1, 3pm on Sundays and are included in the admission cost ($5 for Adults and children 12 and under free).

Information & Image Courtesy of Gatlinburg Craftsmens Fair

Midnight Independence Day Parade in Gatlinburg a Fireworks Spectacular

For the 33rd consecutive year, Gatlinburg kicks off America’s Independence Day celebration with the nation’s first parade, Gatlinburg's Midnight Independence Day Parade, which leads off at 12 a.m. on Friday, July 4, to the cheers of close to 100,000 spectators and features a special tribute to our four branches of military service among the many highlights.

“This will be one of the most patriotic and colorful midnight parades that the City of Gatlinburg has ever produced,” according to Special Events Manager George Hawkins, who organized the first Gatlinburg 4th of July parade in 1976 in celebration of America’s Bicentennial. “We are very excited about the entire weekend of events, which will include a four-day festival highlighting our armed services!”

As soon as the street is closed late on July 3, the parade route comes alive with pre-parade entertainers that begin the excitement of what is to follow. Giant helium balloons soar through the skyline of downtown Gatlinburg, from red, white, and blue Stars to Alphonso the dragon, Humpty Dumpty, and a giant patriotic Eagle and All-Star Train.

More than 100 volunteers are signed on to help the balloons navigate the streets, with over 100 entries of all types scheduled to appear. National entries such as Schwan’s Foods and Red Baron Pizza often bring in their Blaine Kern-designed floats.

Gatlinburg’s popular River Raft Regatta takes place at noon on Friday, July 4th, beginning at the River Terrace bridge on River Road and ending at the Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies bridge in downtown Gatlinburg. This unmanned river raft race will be hosted by the United States Navy and is open to anything floatable except balls and plastic eggs. In the past, families have entered boats made out of matchsticks, floating rocks, as well as little rubber ducks.

Registration begins at 10 a.m., with the race beginning promptly at noon. Support for the River Raft Regatta is provided by the Gatlinburg Recreation Department.

Then, just an hour after sundown, the Fourth’s Grand Finale occurs on the streets of downtown Gatlinburg with a fireworks extravaganza visible all along the Parkway from Applebee’s to the Sky Lift starting about 10:30 p.m. Lasting almost 20 minutes in duration, the sights and sounds of “the rocket’s red glare” will fill the sky as a fitting tribute to this day of celebrating freedom.

Information courtesy of Gatlinburg Chamber of Commerce

Gatlinburg's Smoky Mountain Tunes & Tales Returns this Summer

Back by popular demand, Gatlinburg's 3rd annual run of Smoky Mountain Tunes & Tales™ begins in downtown Gatlinburg on June 13 and will run through August 9. Tunes & Tales is a summer-long street performance event featuring costumed musical performers, storytellers and artisans portraying time periods as far back as 1800.

A collection of personalities and performers arrive nightly at 5 p.m. via horse-drawn wagon in the center of town. Visitors witness a magical transformation of sidewalk to stage as the characters disperse along the downtown Parkway for an evening of entertainment and storytelling until 10 p.m. As many as 14 nightly acts perform throughout the evening. This popular eight-week event truly highlights one of Gatlinburg’s greatest assets – the walkability of the community – and provides guests with an interactive, educational and entertaining experience the whole family can enjoy.

“Each night at 5 p.m., a horse-drawn wagon carries the performers down the Parkway to their designated locations for the evening,” said George Hawkins, Gatlinburg Department of Tourism Special Events Manager. “The rotating cast of twenty acts including storytellers, musicians and crafters will share their stories and skills during the eight-week event.”

As part of Smoky Mountain Tunes & Tales™, visitors can stroll along the Parkway in downtown Gatlinburg and catch a toe-tappin’ performance by "The Back Porch Cloggers," a group showcasing the original dance of the Appalachians.

In addition, guests can meet Whittlin’ Joe as he demonstrates his craft and shares his stories of living in the Smokies, and Miss Nan the school marm shares her experiences and fun stories as a pioneer teacher.

Zeno the Gatlinburg BearTM also makes nightly appearances during this popular summer special event, dishing out hugs and waving to his new friends.

Other popular returning Appalachian characters include Hammer and Strings, the dulcimer duo, and Animal Mac, who sings about his four-legged friends from the Great Smoky Mountains.

“Our intent is to take what we feel is one of Gatlinburg’s greatest assets – the walkability of the community – and provide something that is fun and somewhat different than what most places are doing,” Tourism Director David Perella added.

Visitors also get a chance to hear traditional mountain music by the Spring Lizards, a musical husband and wife team, who plays the music of the 1800s. The pure and rustic music and folk-like lyrics tell stories of the joys and tribulations of life of the early pioneer families.

Folks will enjoy hearing from Annie the Quilter as she shows off her family’s quilt noting that each square has its own story. She even gives tips and show how quilts are made to any would-be seamsters.

Since Gatlinburg is the birthplace of the famous bluegrass tune, “Rocky Top”, Tunes & Tales features traditional bluegrass bands each night such as the Tennessee Mountain Boys, Mountain Mike & the River Road Ramblers and White Oak Flats playing favorite bluegrass standards. All performances are free and happen all along the Parkway, seven nights a week until August 9 making every evening a special event in Gatlinburg.

Gatlinburg’s Smoky Mountain Tunes and TalesTM is an official activity of the City’s Department of Tourism.

Information & Image courtesy of Sevier County News

Gatlinburg Scottish Festival and Games Begins May 16

The 2008 Gatlinburg Scottish Festival and Games take place on May 16 - 18 at Mills Park in Gatlinburg, Tennessee. The weekend of Scottish activities starts on Friday, May 16 with a mountain stroll on an easy trail in the Smokies. A parade down the Parkway in Gatlinburg starts on Friday evening at 6:00 lead by the Knoxville Pipes and Drums. All Scots are invited to march or ride the trolley in the parade. The parade is followed by a Gala Reception at 8:00 at Ramada Inn Four Seasons. Wear your Scottish best for set-down buffet with entertainment and door prizes Saturday and Sunday events at Mills Park include an all day field Ceilidh (a Scottish music festival), professional and amateur Scottish athletics, a heritage seminar, pipe band performances and competition, and highland dance competition. Featured entertainers for 2008 are nationally renowned Scottish musicians; Colin Grant-Adams, Iona and the Celtic group
Local Scottish and Celtic musicians from the area will be performing in our Lowland Ceilidh Tent.

There are plenty of events for the kids including the all-new Kids Kastle. Kids can start training for the heavy athletics by turning a scaled down version of the caber and tossing the famous Scottish haggis! A big treat is the Children's Parade on Saturday!

Adults are invited to try throwing the battle axe, the kilted mile (loaner kilts available), highland wrestling, and the manhood stones. The Clan Challenge highland athletic competition on Saturday is open for public entries as are the Clan Challenge Highland style wrestling, Manhood Stones and the Clan Challenge Kilted Miles.
Bringing a piece of agrarian Scotland to the Smokies, border collie demonstrations are scheduled for both Saturday and Sunday featuring the border collies of Stan Moore of Philadelphia, Tennessee. There will also be a sheep shearing demonstration.

Vendors offer a variety of Scottish items, clothing, jewelry, music, and food including meat pies, sausage rolls, bridies and baked goods.Over 60 clan and heritage societies will offer information about various clans, Scottish history and genealogical information. The honored clan for 2008 is Clan Fraser. The parade of tartans on Sunday features all clans represented at the festival marching with tartans and banners symbolic of their clan society.

A Saturday evening's "Ceilidh Under the Stars" will feature all our entertainer from the day's events, beginning at 8:00 PM it will be a festive night of music, fun and fellowship at Mills Park.

A heritage seminar is scheduled on Sunday, with Matt Newsom, a prominent expert on Attire of the 1600-1700 and the Development of the Tartan.

Gatlinburg's Family Fest in the Smokies a Gospel Gathering

The 18th annual Family Fest in the Smokies features Southern Gospel Music with Bill & Gloria Gaither and welcomes Anne Graham Lotz as guest speaker, Gaither Vocal Band, Gordon Mote, Ernie Haase & Signature Sound, Kevin Williams, Russ Taff, Janet Paschal, Lynda Randle, Isaacs, Jeff & Sheri Easter, Ben Speer, Booth Brothers, the Collingsworth Family and Buddy Greene.

The Family Fest in the Smokies starts May 23, Friday at 7pm, Saturday May 24 at 10am & 6pm, and Sunday May 25 at 10am & 6pm.

If you plan on visiting Gatlinburg for the Family Fest or any other event, hotel reservations are a neccesary must. The many Gatlinburg hotels leave plenty of choices for visitors but be sure to reserve early if you want something special or hotel on the Parkway in Gatlinburg.

Gatlinburg's Fine Arts Festival Set for May 17-18

The Southern Highland Craft Guild Board of Trustees approved for the prestigious guild up to 15 booths at the 4th annual Gatlinburg Fine Arts Festival, scheduled for May 17-18 in downtown Gatlinburg at Ripley’s’ Aquarium of the Smokies Plaza and River Road.

The Gatlinburg Fine Arts Festival is a family-oriented event featuring quality artists from around the country, delicious cuisine, and music in a beautiful mountain setting. Volunteers from the community produce the festival to benefit the Sevier County Arts Council and Arrowmont School of Arts and Crafts, an internationally recognized visual arts center which provides creative experiences year round.

“We are delighted that the Southern Highland Craft Guild will be joining forces with the Gatlinburg Fine Arts Festival,” said Stan Johnson, GFAF Planning Committee Member. “The guild represents some of the finest artists and craftsmen in the country and has exceedingly high standards.

“Their passion for excellence in fine arts and crafts matches our desire to build the Gatlinburg Fine Arts Festival into one of the best arts and craft shows in the Southeast,” said Johnson.

“The Gatlinburg Fine Arts Festival has acquired a wonderful reputation in their four years of hosting this event,” said Tom Bauman, Executive Director of the Southern Highland Craft Guild. “The event is a juried festival with the reputation of having quality artist and craftsmen. We feel very comfortable joining ranks with them. Traditionally the Southern Highland Craft Guild normally produces events exclusive to guild members."

The Gatlinburg Fine Art Festival features over 50 professional artists and craftsmen annually awards $5,000.00 in cash prizes.

Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies will host a “Night With The Artists” party, allowing the sponsors and the public to meet and greet the artists. The party is set from 6 to 9 p.m. on Friday May 16. Cost per person is a $50 donation. At this year’s event, a special “Life Time Achievement” award will be presented to Jim Gray, one of the area’s most respected artists.

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

RibFest & Wings in Gatlinburg

Roll up your sleeves and dig in at Gatlinburg’s 7th Annual Ribfest & Wings festival Thursday, April 17, 2008 from 5 to 8 p.m. in downtown Gatlinburg. Come out and enjoy live entertainment, children’s activities and hot wing eating contest, all promising a lip-smackin’ good time!

Hot wing eating contests take place throughout the event and feature sauces such as “The Hottest Sauce in the World,” “Ring of Fire,” “Sweatin’ in the Smokies,” and “Death by Wings.”

The City of Gatlinburg will award prizes to the “Hot Wing Eating Contest Champion of the Year.” See if you can handle it!

An armband for Ribfest & Wings may be purchased for $10 that allows all you can eat sampling or a “buck for a bone or two wings.” Children’s activities include face painting and balloon artists will be on hand to create the most inventive characters ever!

Information courtesy of Tennessee Tourism Department

Gatlinburg's Spring Wildflower Pilgrimage

As winter fades and the colors of spring begin to sparkle throughout the Smokies, Gatlinburg blossoms into the center of all things botanical during the Great Smoky Mountain Association’s 58th annual Wildflower Pilgrimage and National Park Experience. From April 23 to 27, everyone from the serious botanist to the weekend gardener can experience unprecedented access to some of the nation’s leading botanical experts as well as Appalachian wildlife authorities.

Registration is now open to the public for the Spring Wildflower Pilgrimage by calling 865-436-7318, ext. 222, or on-line at http://www.springwildflowerpilgrimage.org/, where the full schedule of unique offerings is available.

“It is a rare opportunity for those with a personal love of flowers to have the same access to leaders in the field as researchers,” said Ken McFarland, a botanist and professor at the University of Tennessee. “Through seminars and intimate guided tours, each participant will expand his or her skills and knowledge of the unmatched flora and fauna of the Smokies.”

The Wildflower Pilgrimage offers over 150 programs including an array of instructional walks and guided hiking tours tailored to meet individual walking skill ability, along with demonstrations and guest lecturers. These tours showcase the abundant varieties of wildflowers, plants, ferns, mosses, trees and shrubs, as well as birds, reptiles and amphibians, all native to the Great Smoky Mountains.

Seminar classes include photography workshops and sessions by leading experts such as Carol Liguori Wolfe, a renowned ecologist, science writer and photographer, and Will Blozan, president of the Eastern Native Tree Society. Other classes include a study of herb lore of the Appalachian Mountains and an armchair tour of Cades Cove. While most classes take place in the Smokies, a number of educational classroom sessions take place in the W.L. Mills Conference Center in downtown Gatlinburg.

“The Wildflower Pilgrimage is always an exciting time in our town,” said Dave Perella, executive director of the Gatlinburg Department of Tourism. “The Convention Center is transformed into a hub of learning and celebration of the Great Smoky Mountain’s natural botanical beauty. We look forward to the Pilgrimage each year,” he added.

In addition to art and craft exhibits, the 2008 Spring Wildflower Pilgrimage juried art competition highlights the beauty of the botanicals of the Smokies and the talent of the artists who focus on the flowering plants of spring, mosses, lichens, trees or ferns from this region. The artists’ canvas can vary from watercolor, pastel, colored pencil, and oils.

Educational programs and entertainment in the evenings will round out the week’s events in Gatlinburg and the Smokies, which are sponsored by Great Smoky Mountains National Park and GSMA, the City of Gatlinburg, the University of Tennessee Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, Friends of the Smokies, Arrowmont School of Arts & Crafts, the Southern Appalachian Botanical Society and the Gatlinburg Garden Club.

For additional information, or to download a registration brochure and complete program schedule, please visit http://www.springwildflowerpilgrimage.org/. Registration is required.
For more information on spring in Gatlinburg and other special events, please contact the Gatlinburg Chamber of Commerce at (800) 56-VISIT or visit www.gatlinburg.com.

Springfest Events in Gatlinburg Underway

During the three-month Springfest celebration that begins in early March and continues into the second week of June, visitors witness Gatlinburg’s transformation into spring when the city’s streets overflow with baskets of beautiful blooming flowers and plants. Pansies, daffodils, tulips, mandevillas, bougainvilleas, lantanas, scaveolas and wave petunias are among the many varieties of flowers seen throughout the city. Live entertainment can be found along sidewalks, adding a festive flair to the time-honored Downtown Parkway stroll.

Members of Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community display unique handcrafted wares as they gather at the Gatlinburg Convention Center to host their annual Easter Arts & Crafts show Wednesday, March 19 through Saturday, March 22.

On Easter morning, March 23, join in the local tradition and attend Ober Gatlinburg’s 11th Annual Easter Sunrise Service enhanced by the beauty of the Smokies. Free tram rides to the mountain top begin at 5:45 a.m. and continue in 15 minute intervals until the service begins. Complimentary parking at the resort will be provided for those who prefer to drive. A breakfast buffet will be waiting and available at the Ober Gatlinburg Restaurant from 7 a.m. until 10:30 a.m.

The smell of hickory-smoked barbeque fills the air as folks roll up sleeves and dive in to sample their secret sauces on delectable ribs and wings from vendors from all over the Southeast on Thursday, April 17 at Gatlinburg’s Ribfest & Wings. This festive street party features live entertainment, lots of fun and barbeque ribs and wings on the open grill just for your tasting. Live entertainment as well as hot wing eating contests highlight the evening. Kids activities are also available on the Parkway parking lot surrounding the Harley Davidson store across from Hard Rock Cafe near Traffic Light #3.

The 58th Annual Spring Wildflower Pilgrimage, Wednesday, April 23 through Sunday, April 27, is another great event, especially for hikers and nature lovers who love to see delicate wildflowers in bloom. Hosted by Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the University of Tennessee Botany Department and the Gatlinburg Garden Club, this seven-day program offers more than 150 different hiking tours of trails ranging from easy to strenuous, exhibitions, demonstrations, classroom lectures and delightful motor excursions into the wonderful season of spring in the Smokies.

Spring events continue with Gatlinburg’s Scottish Festival & Games Grand Parade on Friday, May 16 at 6 p.m. at Traffic Light #10 in downtown Gatlinburg. All Scots are invited to march or ride in the parade. On Saturday, May 17 and Sunday, May 18, Mills Park in Gatlinburg becomes competitive ground for the 27th Annual Scottish Festival & Games where clans meet and feature Highland athletics, bagpipe competitions, highland dancing, border collie demonstrations, haggis hurling, entertainment and whiskey tasting, along with food and merchandise vendors.

Gatlinburg's Fine Arts Festival, a family-oriented fine arts festival featuring juried artists from around the country, delicious cuisine and music takes place in downtown Gatlinburg on Saturday, May 17 and Sunday, May 18. Proceeds benefit the Sevier County Arts Council.

Information courtesy of Gatlinburg Chamber of Commerce

Spring into Gatlinburg for Family Fun

Teens and young families alike will find plenty to do in Gatlinburg during spring break. There's so much to see and do for every member of the family, including fun-filled attractions like an aquarium with the longest underwater tunnel in the world, a ski resort with year-round ice skating, interesting museums, go cart racing, miniature golf, and and much more. Discover great outdoor activities, family fun, and all of the activities of the GSMNP.

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is one gigantic playground just waiting for you and your family. Enjoy hiking trails, horseback riding, bicycling, camping, and many places to enjoy a picnic; programs for kids and adventurous things to do. Then waiting just down the mountain in Gatlinburg are great restaurants for family dining, great shopping and a litany of lodging options that will satisfy the whims of every member of the family. And if that's not enough, attendance at any of the great Springfest events and celebrations of spring can be a great family activity and fun experience that will bond families together.

Information courtesy of Gatlinburg Chamber of Commerce

Music of the Mountains Festival in Gatlinburg, Tennessee

Great Smoky Mountains National Park will hold its fourth annual “Music of the Mountains” festival on Saturday, March 29, in partnership with City of Gatlinburg and Great Smoky Mountains Association. This year's day-long festival marks a departure from previous year's events which had been exclusively evening concerts. A series of six concerts will be held from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. at the Park's Sugarlands Visitor Center and an evening performance will be held at W. L. Mills Conference Center in Gatlinburg, Tenn.

"Music of the Mountains" is a celebration of musical traditions of the southern Appalachian Mountains, showcasing the evolution of mountain music over time. The festival is one of several special events the Park has developed to tell the story of the people who lived here prior to the Park's establishment in 1934. "Musical expression was and still is often a part of daily life in the southern mountains, and mountain music is tied to Smokies history like no other part of our culture," said Kent Cave, North District Supervisory Park Ranger.

The event starts at 10 a.m. with an array of traditional musical performances at the Sugarlands Visitor Center Theater. Seating in the theater at Sugarlands Visitor Center is limited to 160 persons per concert, and is on a "first come, first served" basis. The six concerts below are free to the public:

10:00 a.m. Tony Thomas --Introduction to old-time banjo and fiddle tunes

11:00 a.m. Lost Mill String Band –Joan and Jerry Paul playing claw-hammer banjo and acoustic bass

Noon and 1:00 p.m. (two performances) Matt Morelock and Brian Vollmer—Old-time songs using claw-hammer banjo and fiddle

2:00 p.m. Bobby Fulcher--Songs and tunes from the Appalachian and Cumberland Mountains using claw-hammer banjo and guitar

3:00 p.m. Boogertown Gap--Traditional tunes and songs from Ruth Barber and Keith Watson using claw-hammer banjo and guitar

4:00 p.m. Sparky and Rhonda Rucker--Folk songs, ballads, and tunes from Appalachia and the Civil War period

Following the Sugarlands Visitor Center concerts, the event will be capped off with an evening concert by "Jimbo Whaley and Friends" at W. L. Mills Conference Center in Gatlinburg, Tenn., starting at 7 p.m. Tickets for Whaley's concert at Mills Conference Center can be purchased online for $20 each, or at the door of the event for $25 (doors open at 6 p.m.). Online purchase can be made through the Gatlinburg Web site at www.eventsgatlinburg.com and click on Calendar of Events-March 29. Ticket holders will receive a CD of Whaley's newest gospel recording as part of the ticket price, and a door prize and other giveaways will be announced during the concert.

Whaley is a well-known bluegrass and gospel musician and singer from Sevier County, Tenn., and traces his ancestry back to residents of what later became Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Whaley has played in many music events around the nation, and with notable bands such as "Pine Mountain Railroad" and "Greenbrier."

"We're pleased again to partner with the City of Gatlinburg and Great Smoky Mountains Association to offer the public a variety of musical styles for this year's 'Music of the Mountains,' festival," said Park Superintendent Dale Ditmanson. "Our staff has lined up a wide spectrum of old-time, traditional, and bluegrass music performers. With the change to an all day festival we hope to allow more of our visitors to experience the rich traditions of mountain music," he continued.

For more information about the event, please phone the Sugarlands Visitor Center at 865-436-1291.

Spring Events in Gatlinburg

As Old Man Winter's snowy spell is finally broken, the Smoky Mountains begin to thaw and melt into a fresh, green playground for all to see. Buds on trees, blossoming flowers, longer days and warmer temps bring the world to this area for a taste of homegrown treats. This spring, bring your family and explore the country way of life we love!

Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community Easter Show

The Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community welcomes you with their Easter Arts & Crafts Show. Held at the Gatlinburg Convention Center the third weekend in March, this event is a popular attraction for those with an appreciation for artisan products.

As you make your way through the convention hall, you'll pass booth after booth of handmade crafts that pique your interest. What's even more impressive is that local craftsmen are on hand to demonstrate their skills for you. Watch as these talented individuals create one-of-a-kind jewelry, pottery, baskets, candles, leather, candy, ceramics, wearable fashions, art, quilts, woodcrafts, stained glass, plus much more.

Annual Quiltfest

Just down the road from Gatlinburg is the annual Quiltfest in Pigeon Forge. Vacation rentals in nearby towns give you ready access to all the events in Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge and Sevierville, including this amazing display of hand-spun beauty. Whether you come to learn or compete, you'll be astonished at the homemade quilts you'll find during this festival. According to the MountainQuiltfest.com website, this event draws more than 20,000 quilting enthusiasts to enter more than a dozen categories. Youth quilting, wearable art, nontraditional and - of course - handmade quilts are all on display. Prize money is awarded in amounts ranging from $50 to $4,000. Instructors are also on hand daily to lead classes in developing your skills as an expert quilter.

Dollywood Festival of Nations

Planning to spend spring break in Pigeon Forge? Vacation rentals position you to take advantage of everything this area offers, including Dollywood. Beginning in March and lasting through May, Dollywood hosts the Festival of Nations.

Through a world of dance, you'll discover high-energy Irish step dancing, heart-pumping salsa dancing from Latin America, eye-catching moves from native Russia and more. Come enjoy the fancy footwork and then stay to take in all Dollywood has to offer.

The Dolly Parade

Each year, April brings forth fields of blooming flowers, but none as beautiful as the grand marshal of the Dolly Parade, Dolly Parton herself. With an estimated 50,000 in attendance annually, the Dolly Parade makes its way through the streets of Pigeon Forge. The Dolly Parade offers everything you might expect from such a celebration, including beautiful floats, bands, entertainers of all types and local dignitaries.

Ribfest & Wings

If all this shopping and sightseeing is making you hungry, then you're in luck! Spring in the Smokies also means food… and lots of it! With a delicious array of recipes to try, you might just find yourself up to your eyeballs in ribs and wings! Downtown Gatlinburg plays host to this annual event to be held April 17th. With live entertainment and plenty of children's activities, the entire family can have a lip-smacking good time.

With so much to do this spring in the Smokies, pack your family and head on up! The family-friendly environment and endless list of things to do make this the perfect place for kids of all ages.

Information courtesy of American Chronicle

Music of the Mountains Celebrated in Gatlinburg

Great Smoky Mountains National Park will hold its fourth annual “Music of the Mountains” festival on Saturday, March 29, in partnership with City of Gatlinburg and Great Smoky Mountains Association. This year's day-long festival marks a departure from previous year's events which had been exclusively evening concerts. A series of six concerts will be held from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. at the Park's Sugarlands Visitor Center and an evening performance will be held at W. L. Mills Conference Center in Gatlinburg, Tenn.

"Music of the Mountains" is a celebration of musical traditions of the southern Appalachian Mountains, showcasing the evolution of mountain music over time. The festival is one of several special events the Park has developed to tell the story of the people who lived here prior to the Park's establishment in 1934. "Musical expression was and still is often a part of daily life in the southern mountains, and mountain music is tied to Smokies history like no other part of our culture," said Kent Cave, North District Supervisory Park Ranger.

The event starts at 10 a.m. with an array of traditional musical performances at the Sugarlands Visitor Center Theater. Seating in the theater at Sugarlands Visitor Center is limited to 160 persons per concert, and is on a "first come, first served" basis. The six concerts below are free to the public:

• 10:00 a.m. Tony Thomas --Introduction to old-time banjo and fiddle tunes
• 11:00 a.m. Lost Mill String Band –Joan and Jerry Paul playing claw-hammer banjo and acoustic bass
• Noon and 1:00 p.m. (two performances) Matt Morelock and Brian Vollmer—Old-time songs using claw-hammer banjo and fiddle
• 2:00 p.m. Bobby Fulcher--Songs and tunes from the Appalachian and Cumberland Mountains using claw-hammer banjo and guitar
• 3:00 p.m. Boogertown Gap--Traditional tunes and songs from Ruth Barber and Keith Watson using claw-hammer banjo and guitar
• 4:00 p.m. Sparky and Rhonda Rucker--Folk songs, ballads, and tunes from Appalachia and the Civil War period

Following the Sugarlands Visitor Center concerts, the event will be capped off with an evening concert by "Jimbo Whaley and Friends" at W. L. Mills Conference Center in Gatlinburg, Tenn., starting at 7 p.m. Tickets for Whaley's concert at Mills Conference Center can be purchased online for $20 each, or at the door of the event for $25 (doors open at 6 p.m.). Online purchase can be made through the Gatlinburg Web site at www.eventsgatlinburg.com and click on Calendar of Events-March 29. Ticket holders will receive a CD of Whaley's newest gospel recording as part of the ticket price, and a door prize and other giveaways will be announced during the concert.

Whaley is a well-known bluegrass and gospel musician and singer from Sevier County, Tenn., and traces his ancestry back to residents of what later became Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Whaley has played in many music events around the nation, and with notable bands such as "Pine Mountain Railroad" and "Greenbrier."

”We're pleased again to partner with the City of Gatlinburg and Great Smoky Mountains Association to offer the public a variety of musical styles for this year's 'Music of the Mountains,' festival," said Park Superintendent Dale Ditmanson. "Our staff has lined up a wide spectrum of old-time, traditional, and bluegrass music performers. With the change to an all day festival we hope to allow more of our visitors to experience the rich traditions of mountain music," he continued.

For more information about the event, please phone the Sugarlands Visitor Center at 865-436-1291.

Information courtesy of SevierCountyNews.com

Spring Attractions in Gatlinburg

Looking for attractions in Gatlinburg? The Gatlinburg spring calendar of events is jam-packed with seasonal special events, such as Gatlinburg Fine Arts Festival and Gatlinburg Craft Festival.

Arts & Crafts Community Easter Arts & Crafts Show
Date(s):March 19 - 22
Season:Spring
Category:Arts, Entertainment, History
Description:Unique handcrafted gifts made by members of the Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community as they host their annual show at the Gatlinburg Convention Center.
Location:Gatlinburg Convention Center
Admission:Free

Ribfest & Wings
Date(s): April 17
Season: Spring
Category: Entertainment, Fundraiser, Food
Description: One of Gatlinburg's rites of spring is this street party with live entertainment and finger-lickin' ribs & wings!
Location: Downtown Gatlinburg
Admission: Yes

58th Annual Spring Wildflower Pilgrimage
Date(s): April 23 - 27
Season: Spring
Category: Activity, Outdoors, educational
Description: Enjoy the beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park with over 170 different programs, including hiking tours, motorcades, demonstrations & classroom lectures
Location: W.L. Mills Conference Center & various venues


Gatlinburg Scottish Festival & Games
Date(s): May 16 - 18
Season: Spring
Category: Entertainment, Food, History, Parades
Description: 27th Annual Scottish clans meeting featuring Highland athletics, bagpipe competitions, Highland dancing, border collie demonstrations, haggis hurling, entertainment, whiskey tasting, food & merchandise vendors.($)
Location:Mills Park
Admission: Daily fee

4th Annual Gatlinburg Fine Arts Festival
Date(s): May 17 - 18
Season: Spring
Category: Arts, Entertainment, Food
Description: A family oriented fine arts festival featuring juried artists from around the country, delicious cuisine and music.
Location: Downtown Gatlinburg
Admission: FREE

Gatlinburg SpringFest
Date(s): March 12 - June 8
Season: Spring
Category: Arts, Entertainment, Food, History
Description: Ahhh...Springtime in the Smokies! There's no better time to enjoy nature and festivals of all types.
Location: Throughout Gatlinburg

Family Fest In The Smokies
Date(s): May 23 - 25
Season: Spring
Category: Entertainment
Description: Family Fest in the Smokies returns for its traditional Memorial Day Weekend concert series featuring Southern Gospel Music!
Location: Gatlinburg Convention Center
Admission: Yes

Gatlinburg MountainFest
Date(s): May 23 - 24
Season: Spring
Category: Arts, Entertainment, Food, History
Description: Life in the Mountains was hard work in olden days, which made festivities all the more special. Join in two days of mountain-style entertainment, food and crafts!
Location: Downtown Gatlinburg
Admission: Free

Information courtesy of Gatlinburg Department of Tourism

Ring in the New Year at Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies

Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies will ring in the New Year with its 7th Annual Dance with the Sharks New Year's Eve Party. Guests will have the opportunity to explore the undersea world of Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies while they party the night away with 10,000 exotic ocean creatures, including 12-foot sharks.

The New Year's Eve Party features two separate dance areas, one with an 8-piece dance band and another with a DJ, an unlimited feast of over the top hors d'oeuvres plus a champagne toast at midnight.

"Our party is both unique and fun. You can dance, eat, and party throughout the aquarium until 1 a.m., plus just prior to midnight we can all go out to the aquarium's plaza and watch the city of Gatlinburg's fireworks display and ball drop. It's always an incredible event," said Steve File, general manager of Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies.

The party is great for the entire family. Those wishing to bring children can take advantage of the aquarium's Educational Childcare program, which is offered to children ages 3 to 12. Advance arrangements for childcare are required.

The party price is $109.99 per couple, $69.99 for singles, and $29.99 for children (3-12). Educational childcare is available for children ages 3 to 12. All prices are plus tax. Reservations are required.The aquarium is located at traffic light #5 on the Parkway in Gatlinburg, TN and is open 365 days a year. The Aquarium closes to the public at 9 p.m. on New Year's Eve and opens to party guests at 9:01 p.m.

Image and information courtesy of Ripley's Corportation

New Year's Eve in Gatlinburg, Tennessee

One of the biggest celebrations we attend every year is on New Year's Eve. We make plans to be kinder, lose weight, quit smoking- what ever it is we do not like about ourselves. So what better way to ring in a new start then to go to the biggest party we can find.

Gatlinburg, Tennessee, known as the gateway to the Smoky Mountains, is no stranger to throwing a party. Over ten million tourists visit Gatlinburg every year. The annual Winter fest Celebration is on the way with over two million lights to brighten the beautiful mountain scenery.

Gatlinburg's annual Celebrations have been noted as "One of the most popular public New Year's Celebrations in America." With New Year's Eve festivities beginning around 11:00 p.m., it is nothing short of an all out street party. Forty Thousand people are estimated to attend this year's street party at the Gatlinburg Space Needle. The Space Needle and Family Fun Center is located across from the Gatlinburg Convention Center. You will be able to gaze into the breathtaking views from the 342-feet high observation deck. The Family Fun center includes the following: a simulated roller-coaster, Air hockey, pool, Arcade games, a Taste Freeze and Old Time Photo and lots more. There will be a live DJ playing today's top music for your listening pleasure. Free party favors are given out to everyone, hats for the men and tiaras for the women.

The Hard Rock Café will also be providing live entertainment. The Hard Rock Café opened in September of 1999 and is the number one place for rock and roll and having a good time. This Hard Rock is a one of a kind as being the only one with a wedding chapel located inside. The Hard Rock staff will do their signature interpretative performance of "YMCA." At midnight atop the 342-foot space needle, you will get to see a Times Square like ball drop followed by a spectacular fireworks display that can be seen all over the city.

For a more romantic evening, join the events at Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokey's. Ripley's is one of the largest and most visited aquariums in the county. This state of the art 1.4 million gallon aquarium gets you closer to the ocean's inhabitants than any other. On New Years Eve, they have the annual" Dances with the Sharks" celebration. Here you will be able to bring in the New Year dancing under the glow of the beautiful aquariums. There is a twelve-piece band, as well as a DJ. They will serve hors d'oeuvres and have a champagne toast at midnight to ring in the New Year. You will have to make an early reservation being one of the hot-spots of the evening.

Ober Gatlinburg hosts an annual bash as well. Ober Gatlinburg amusement park and ski lodge rises high above Gatlinburg. They have an indoor ice skating rink, the largest Ariel tramway, a scenic chairlift and lessons are available for beginners to the experts on the slope. The Amusement Park has an alpine slide, arcade, Bungee fun, go-carts and lots more for your family's entertainment. The New Years Eve party kicks off at 7:00 p.m. A buffet dinner, which includes prime rib, salmon, roasted chicken, and much more with desserts included. There are different packages available. You can chose to dance your way into the New Year in the lounge with live entertainment. Also free party favors are given out and hors d'oeuvre's will be served and there is a Champaign toast at midnight.

These are just a few of the parties available for your enjoyment in Gatlinburg Tennessee on New Year's Eve. Whether you chose to spend the night dancing in the street, dancing with the sharks or partying at the ski lodge, you are sure to have a wonderful time along with thousands of other visitors.

Information courtesy of Associated Content

The Glades Arts and Crafts Community of Gatlinburg, Tennessee

One of the south’s lesser-known treasures is nestled in the hills adjacent to a popular village. What is it? The largest group of independent artists and craftsmen showing their skills. The Glades Arts and Crafts community is comprised of an eight-mile country road loop where over one hundred artists and craftsmen parade their trades. You’ll find a wide variety of art galleries, pottery barns, active workshops, independent artist showrooms, basket-making studios, and many more authentic local artisans.

Originally begun in the 1930's, a visit to this unique location is still a visit to an earlier era, absent of industrial machines and computers. This was a time when a family community came together to share their talents with one another. Watch a master potter throw and spin clay into one-of-a-kind works on a wheel. Observe artists painting with various forms of art media, and then discover a mother/daughter team making beautiful jewelry they’ve designed together. Here originality and creativity occur daily.

Over the years this has been a place to come and discover the history and heritage that make up the Great Smoky Mountain legacy. What is so interesting about the artists and craftsmen is that they are continually seeking new and innovative ways of capturing their art form for today’s generation. Each year new artists are arriving to share their gifts and talents with the community to make it one of the most unique places to visit in the Smoky Mountains.

To visit the Arts and Crafts Community, simply get on Hwy. 321 in Gatlinburg and turn onto Glades or Buckhorn Road then follow the signs marked for Great Smoky Mountain Arts and Crafts Community. (It’s a very distinctive sign that has MEMBER written at the top.)

Information courtesy of American Chronicle

Gatlinburg Christmas Parade is December 7, 2007

The Tuskegee Airmen lead the 32nd annual "Schwan's Foods Fantasy of Lights Christmas Parade" December 7, 2007 at 7:30 p.m. in downtown Gatlinburg, Tennessee. Enjoy more than 100 parade entries including marching bands, millions of holiday lights and giant helium balloons with many special guests, including the Tuskegee Airmen.

This year, the parade takes place on the anniversary of Pearl Harbor - adding special significance to the Tuskegee Airmen’s appearance - who will serve as this year's Grand Marshals. They were the first African American U.S. military pilots to fly planes during World War II. Of the 300 Tuskegee Airmen who are with us today, 18 will be in Gatlinburg to lead the parade. This decorated group recently received the Congressional Gold Medal, Congress’ highest civilian honor, in Washington, D.C., some 60 years after serving the United States in World War II.

In addition, the world famous Budweiser Clydesdales, the symbol of quality and tradition for Anheuser-Busch since 1933, will make their first East Tennessee appearance with an eight-horse hitch harnessed and pulling the famous red wagon.

Be a part of Gatlinburg’s Fantasy of Lights Christmas Parade and you’ll see why this family favorite event has been recognized as one of the “Top 20 Events in the South” by the Southeast Tourism Society.

Information courtesy of SevierCountyNews.com

Gatlinburg streets to be filled with holiday Tunes & Tales

Aglow with the charm of the new Winter Magic lighting displays, the city streets of Gatlinburg look even more beautiful this year following completion of another phase of the undergrounding of utilities. But, the lighting is only part of the pleasure of a stroll down Gatlinburg's Parkway this holiday season.

The Tunes & Tales Programs began November 23, and will run from 5 to 9 p.m. every Friday and Saturday through Christmas, the popular Tunes & Tales program will feature seven quartets of carolers who will roam the streets singing classic songs of the season. Dressed in Victorian period costumes, the carolers will be delivered to various locations in the city via horse-drawn wagons and carriages.

Before the carolers board their buggies to begin singing visitors into a happy holiday mood, the public is invited to meet them at a public reception in the W.L. Mills Conference Center from 5 to 6 p.m. Friday where everyone can enjoy some light refreshments.

The public reception will also serve as the opening of the annual Gatlinburg Festival of Trees featuring dozens of trees decorated in themes ranging from whimsical to traditional and extravagantly different. The exhibit of trees lining the halls of W.L. Mills Conference Center will also be open to the public from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday, and from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. weekdays through Dec. 15.

Of course, to be perfectly magical, it is a must that the Winter Magic program include appearances by Mr. and Mrs. Santa Claus. The Clauses of North Pole, Earth, and their staff of elves work year-round making toys that Santa Claus delivers to children around the world on Christmas Eve. To prepare himself for the big trip, Claus agreed this year that he and his wife should vacation in Gatlinburg during the weekends so they can rest up a bit while visiting with children and the young at heart in the Riverbend Mall right up until Christmas.

Zeno the Gatlinburg Bear is so excited about the Clauses coming to town, and the opportunity to get his picture taken with visitors, that he has decided to postpone his hibernation until after Christmas.

Music will also fill the air every Friday night at traffic light 3 where a Yule Log fireside sing-along will be held to give families a chance to enjoy singing their favorite holiday songs together. Perhaps even Zeno will try to overcome his fear of fire to hang out with the singers.

Information courtesy of The Mountain Press

Gatlinburg's Winter Magic Offers Mountains of Fun

If you’re coming to the mountains, it just makes sense to stay in the mountains, and winter in Gatlinburg is filled with plenty to keep you busy.

Listed as a “Top 20 Event” by the Southeast Tourism Society, Gatlinburg’s four-month Winter Magic celebration transforms the mountain resort town into a spectacular winter wonderland from November through February.

Making its debut on Friday and Saturday evenings throughout this holiday season, Winter Magic Tunes & Tales takes to the Downtown Parkway. From Thanksgiving through the weekend before Christmas, visitors can meet characters and enjoy a capella caroling and entertainment along the Parkway on weekends during this premiere event!

As thoughts turn toward the holidays, browse for unique gifts and timeless treasures crafted by members of Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community at their annual Thanksgiving Arts & Crafts Show. Visit the Gatlinburg Convention Center from November 21 through 25 for fascinating artistic demonstrations and fantastic holiday shopping all under one roof.

Get in the holiday spirit at Gatlinburg’s Nutcracker “Sweet” and Festival of Trees at the Gatlinburg Convention Center November 23 through 24. The Smoky Mountain Dance Theater Company performs their Nutcracker “Sweet” at 7 p.m. nightly, and come early to view dozens of ornately decorated Christmas trees decorated by local businesses and organizations.

With Christmas around the corner, you can continue to shop for one-of-a-kind gifts and unique treasures crafted by members of Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community at their annual Christmas Arts & Crafts Show. Drop in at the Gatlinburg Convention Center from November 26 through December 2 for fantastic holiday shopping options from dozens upon dozens of the best craftspeople in the country.

Ready to continue your celebration of the season? Then bundle up and generate a healthy dose of holiday cheer as Schwan’s Foods presents the 32nd annual Fantasy of Lights Christmas Parade in Downtown Gatlinburg on Friday, December 7 at 7:30 p.m. The Tuskegee Airmen will serve as grand marshals, fresh off their being awarded the Congressional Gold Medal earlier this year. Thrill at a rare appearance by the Budweiser Clydesdales and enjoy more than 100 parade entries including marching bands, millions of lights and giant helium balloons with special guests Santa Claus and his elves. You will surely see why the parade has been recognized as one of the “Top Twenty Events in the South” by the Southeast Tourism Society.

Ring in 2008 in Times Square fashion at the New Year’s Eve Ball Drop and Fireworks Show beginning at 10 p.m. and celebrating until 12:30 a.m. on New Year’s Day. An estimated crowd of 40,000 gather for a street party including free party favors, hats, tiaras, a fireworks show and live entertainment.

Through the end of 2007, visitors can enjoy a unique old fashioned hayride with family and friends in downtown Gatlinburg from September 1 through December 30. As fall turns to winter in the Smoky Mountains, take this fun-filled hayride and enjoy breath-taking views of our beautiful mountains. Departure is from traffic light #6 at Mountain Mall from 5 to 9 p.m. Sunday through Thursday, departing approximately every 45 minutes.

Winter Magic visitors can also soak up the spirit of the season from the comfort of a Gatlinburg Trolley by taking a relaxing Gatlinburg Winter Magic Trolley Ride of Lights. These popular guided excursions are available by advance reservation and embark from the city’s trolley center located at Traffic Light #5. The trolley carries its guests on a memorable journey through downtown and adjacent Hwy. 321, allowing everyone to experience the magical wonder of Gatlinburg Winter Magic, the winter lighting program which has been attracting folks to Gatlinburg for years.

Gatlinburg Winter Magic Trolley Ride of Lights embarks at 6:30, 7:30 and 8:30 nightly during December, except for Dec. 7, the evening of the city’s annual Christmas parade, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and New Years Eve. Trolley excursions are available on Saturdays during the month of January.

Information courtesy of Gatlinburg Department of Tourism