Sep 14, 2023 – Sep 16, 2023
Contact Phone:(865) 687-8303Event Location:2986 Teaster Ln Pigeon Forge, Tennessee 37863
A spectacular event for all car enthusiasts! Prizes include, $8,000 cash giveaway, and awards given to the top placers. There will be a huge swap meet with numerous show cars and car corral. Make sure to plan for the event and get together with many other automotive enthusiasts. The Pigeon Forge Rod Run is the area’s largest automotive event!
Date 12 November, 2023
Time 7:30 am – 10:30 am
Runners make sure to sign up for this wonderful event. The Cades Cove Loop Lope is the only organized footrace held inside Great Smoky Mountains National Park and it benefits The Friends of the Smokies. The funds raised from the event will benefit park projects and programs. These include wildlife conservation and park preservation. The race is limited to the first 750 so sign up and take part in the festivities. 10k and 5k events will take place
November 25 – December 17 • 5:30 pm – 9:00 pm
Make sure to check out “Christmas in the Village” at the  Great Smoky Mountains Heritage Center. Take part in some Appalachian Christmas traditions, history demonstrations and take a tour and see some of the historic buildings on the land.
On Friday, December 9, you can expect to see blacksmithing as our featured demonstration for the evening. You will also experience fiber demonstrations, spinning and weaving, crafting, and open-hearth cooking.
Call (865) 448-0044 for more information on the event.

Smoky Mountain Lights 

A Peaceful Side Christmas Experience in Townsend, TN
A must for kids of all ages. Make sure to take part in the amazing lights and holiday spirit at the Townsend Visitor Center.
Looking for something fun to do on Christmas eve?  Santa will be here every Friday-Sunday until Christmas Eve. Time with Santa is 100% free with your $25 light show entrance.

Wears Valley Fall Fest

Make sure to attend this wonderful festival. A one-of-a-kind event that you won’t want to miss!
Wears Valley Fall Fest offers three full days of family fun.  Families can enjoy all of the crafts, food and entertainment while taking in the surroundings.
The Fall Fest will open 10 am – 6 pm Friday & Saturday.  On Sunday, the Fest will be open from 10 am – 4 pm.
Directions: The Wears Valley Fall Fest is located next to the Tennessee State Bank on Wears Valley Road, 3179 Wears Valley Rd, Sevierville, TN 37862. It is 7 miles from Pigeon Forge and 7 miles from Townsend.

The Townsend Grains & Grits Festival

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 5, 2022 6:00PM-9:00PM
Looking for a fun event in early November?
The Townsend Grains & Grits Festival is a festival of southern spirits and gourmet grub. Make sure to get your ticket and experience the great food and spirits that can only be found here.
Enjoy the event and meet some of the legendary distillers and blenders of our community. Live entertainment, great food and crafts. Something for everyone.
This is a 21 and over event. Rain or Shine.
— NO REFUNDS —

Winter Heritage Festival

SATURDAY, JANUARY 22, 10 AM – 4 PM

The Winter Heritage Festival will take place on Jan 22, 2022 at the Great Smoky Mountains Heritage Center 123 Cromwell Drive, Townsend, Tennessee.

Make sure to come out and join in on the fun. There will be a Free series of presentations by the Cades Cove Preservation Association located in the Great Smoky Mountain Heritage Center’s Auditorium. Local Historians will share the stories and tales that created our past.

Always a fun educational event for the whole family.

Tennessee Winter Beer Fest 2022

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 19, 3 PM – 8 PM

The Winter Beer Fest will take place on Saturday, February 19th, 2022 celebrating the 10th year. The TWBF will be held from 3pm to 8pm at The Carriage House Restaurant in Townsend.

A fun day with Amazing local craft beers, fun people, delicious food, and it’s all for a great charity!

Tickets can be purchased online at www.tennesseewinterbeerfest.com for $60. The ticket price includes a commemorative glass, beer and dinner catered from Miss Lily’s Catering in Townsend.

Townsend Grains and Grits Festival

Saturday, November 6th from 6-9pm|

Make sure to attend this fun event taking place at the Townsend Visitor Center,in Townsend, TN

The event will include whiskey-tasting and a chance to enjoy some delicious gourmet food. Meet some of the region’s legendary distillers and blenders in the Peaceful Side of the Smokies. Fun for the whole family.

Little River Run 5K

11 am on Saturday, November 13th

Runners get ready. Sign up and join us for the 3rd Annual Little River Run 5K. Taking place at the Townsend Abbey in Townsend, TN.

Take your part in keeping Blount Beautiful. Run or walk at your own pace. A great way to enjoy the great people and beautiful views in Townsend.

Townsend Fall Heritage Festival

09/24/2021 @ 10:00 AM

A fun filled day for people of all ages. Come enjoy bluegrass music, arts and crafts, and experience the time honored traditions. The Fall Festival is a great event for family and friends.

The festival will have plenty of music, primarily bluegrass and mountain music. In addition, there will be clogging and square dancing, arts and crafts booths, games and some delicious food, such as fried pies and kettle corn.

Form more information check out the Peaceful Side Of The Smokies website.

Great Smoky Mountain Balloon Festival 2021

AUG 21 4:00 PM TO 10:00 PM

Don’t miss the Great Smoky Mountain Hot Air Balloon Festival. If you enjoy colors and beautiful backdrops this event is for you. The sky will be filled with a spectrum of color like never before, against a backdrop of a breathtaking Tennessee sunset.

Make sure to check out the Great Smoky Mountains Hot Air Balloon Festival website for more information on this fun family event.

Fall Train Days

Fri, Sep 24, 8 AM – Sat, Sep 25, 8 AM

Join us at the Little River Railroad/Lumber Museum

The Little River Railroad & Lumber Company Museum will be hosting Fall Train Days on Friday and Saturday, September 24 & 25 from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

This is a family event and is free to everyone. Make sure to mark the weekend on your calendar for some good old family fun.

The event includes an outdoor model railroad display, craft vendors, interactive family friendly activities, and historical exhibits. Free admission and free parking.

Blue Ribbon Country Fair

Sat, Sep 25, 10 AM – 4 PM

Make sure to come out to the Great Smoky Mountains Heritage Center and join in as we celebrate the 14th Annual Blue Ribbon Country Fair on Saturday, September 25th, 2021.

gsm heritage center county fair

There will be plenty of family fun including open hearth cooking, flint knapping, wood turning, blacksmithing, and much more. Enojy the gorgeous views, people and weather.

 

For more information please contact the GSM Heritage Center,

4th of July Celebration & Fireworks – Townsend 

Join us for a 4th of July celebration you wont want to miss. Fireworks in the Field in front of Highland Manor Inn  7:30 PM – 10:pm.

Bring a lawn chair or blanket and get comfortable. This annual event is for all ages to enjoy. The Highland Manor Inn and Conference Center invites you to join the great people of Townsend for a day of family fun, music and fireworks.

For more information about this event please call us at: (865) 448-2211

SMOKY MOUNTAIN BIGFOOT FESTIVAL

Saturday, May 22, 2021 – 12:00 pm – 6:00 pm

Make sure to check out the first annual Smoky Mountain Bigfoot Festival in Townsend on May 22, 2021 from 12pm-6pm. A family event that is sure to bring smiles to everyone. This event will include a Bigfoot chainsaw competition, hot air balloon rides with Bigfoot and a 5k race. In addition there will be a Bigfoot calling contest, live music to get you moving and plenty of food.

The event will take place at the Great Smoky Mountain Heritage Center – in Townsend, Tn.

For more information about this event please call us at: (865) 448-2211

Little River Railroad Train Days

Dates: Last Weekend in Sept and the First Weekend in May

TRAIN DAYS:
Little River Railroad & Lumber Company Museum Come invites you to experience Train Days at the Little River Railroad and Lumber Company Museum in Townsend,TN.
Located at 7747 East Lamar Alexander Parkway

A Free Family Friendly Event
For More Information and updates visit:

Little River Railroad & Lumber Company Museum

Bring the family and make sure to bring your camera. We are right across the street from The Highland Manor Inn.

SMOKY MOUNTAIN CLASSIC SOFTBALL TOURNAMENT

SMOKY MOUNTAIN CLASSIC
SOFTBALL TOURNAMENT

Mark the Dates on your calendar. July 9, 10 & 11


The event will feature the top-ranked teams in the United States. Comparable to football’s Super Bowl, basketball’s Final Four, and baseball’s World Series, the Smoky Mountain Classic is considered the premier softball tournament in the country. The tournament is sponsored by Louisville Slugger, The Daily Times, Blount Partnership and ASP Nation. Check out Softball Center’s website https://www.softballcenter.com/ for complete coverage of this year’s event.

Great Smoky Mountains Food Truck Festival

Make sure to attend the second annual Food Truck Festival in Townsend, TN. This event is family friendly and an event for all ages. Eat as much or as little as you like and enjoy the different food from all of the quality vendors.

20+ local food trucks will be in attendance as you eat and enjoy the beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains by the river or campfire. d toasty campfires will be available.

This is a Rain or Shine event.

ALL ticket sales final. No refunds, exchanges or rain checks
Parking will NOT be on site. Parking will be at Burger Master in Townsend.Shuttles for Saturday will run from 11am – 6pm. No attendance accepted after 6pm to allow adequate time to enjoy the food trucks.Children 12 and under FREE with each paid adult ticket.No animals permitted, ONLY certified Service animals.

This is a CASH PREFERRED event, however; food trucks will have the ability to accept cards.

Saturday, May 1, 2021 at 11 AM – 7 PM
118 Stables Dr, Townsend

Townsend Spring Heritage & Bluegrass Festival

First Full Weekend In May

Bring your own lawn chair and relax as you enjoy bluegrass music, good food and great people.
The festival will be a fun event for the whole family.

townsend tn visitors center

The address for the event is 7906 E. Lamar Alexander Parkway, Townsend, TN 37882

Please refer to the daily schedule for events:

May 7
Crafts & Demonstrations: 10 a.m.-6 p.m.
Food: 10 a.m.-8 p.m.
Music: Noon-10 p.m.

May 8
Crafts & Demonstrations: 10 a.m.-6 p.m.
Food: 10 a.m.-8 p.m.
Music: 11:30 a.m.-10 p.m.

Parking is $10 per day or $15 for two-day pass. Proceeds benefit the Townsend Volunteer Fire Department.

FREE Townsend Shuttle
Don’t forget to hop on the FREE shuttle that takes you around Townsend

Smoky Mountain Fiber Arts Festival

Make sure to attend this fun filled event. Something for the entire family and all ages. Fun filled activities, demonstrations, classes, vendors set up and displays with llamas, angora rabbits, sheep, and goats!

fiber arts festival townsend tennessee

Need help of for more information please see: http://www.smokymountainfiberartsfestival.org/

Foothills Quilt Guild Exhibit

The Foothills Quilt Guild Exhibit is a great event where you can view and appreciate the art of quilt making. Check out some of the finest hand made quilts at the exhibition and learn the history of the  Foothills Quilt Guild which was founded in 1993.

townsend visitors center tennessee

Join us for a fun day and enjoy the craft of quilt making.

Little River Railroad Christmas holiday event

Make sure to stop by the Little River Railroad & Lumber Company Museum in Townsend on Saturday November 28th 5-7 p.m. This free family-friendly evening event features the sights and sounds of Christmas.

There will be Christmas lights and the outdoor Garden Scale model train display will be run. Enjoy the holidays and the great people of Townsend.

Smoky Mountain Fiber Arts Festival

The Festival will focus on the “sheep to shawl” concept – transforming fleece into finished goods and art pieces.

Come join the fun and explore your creativity. Vendors will be in attendance and offering demonstrations.

https://www.townsendartisanguild.org/fiber-arts.html

Townsend Spring Festival – Old Timers Day

May 1-2 2020

Bring the family and some comfortable
chairs for this great event. A day of
Bluegrass music, arts and crafts, good
food, and lots of festivities. The entire
family will enjoy this event held at the
Townsend Visitor’s Center.

Daily Schedule

May 1
Crafts & Demonstrations: 10 a.m.-6 p.m.
Food: 10 a.m.-8 p.m.
Music: Noon-10 p.m.

townsend spring festival old timers day people at event

May 2
Crafts & Demonstrations: 10 a.m.-6 p.m.
Food: 10 a.m.-8 p.m.
Music: 11:30 a.m.-10 p.m.

Proceeds benefit the Townsend
Volunteer Fire Department.

For more information visit The Peaceful
Side Of The Smokies website.

Great Smoky Mountains Food Truck Festival

March 28, 2020 at 11 AM – 7 PM

This event is for food lovers of all ages. The Great Smoky Mountain Food Truck Festival is putting together another fun day, with food, music, campfires and amazing people. Bring the family out and enjoy tasty food and great mountain views.

The festival will bring nearly 40 food trucks to the Little Arrow Outdoor Resort in Townsend. Parking at Smoky Mountain River Rat and shuttles running to the Resort.

smoky mountains food truck festival 2020 townsend
March 27: VIP Night with food, drinks, entertainment by the Drift Boat Cowboys, a silent auction and more. March 28: 11 am- 7 pm: A day of fun by the river with 40 food trucks, swag packs included with each ticket, covered areas and campfires. If you plan on coming to Townsend for the event and need a great Hotel, The Highland Manor Inn makes it easy.  Call  (865) 448-2211 for accomodations.  

2020 Winter Heritage Festival

Make sure to mark your calendar and join in the fun on Friday and Saturday January 24th & 25th for a free series of presentations by the Cades Cove Preservation Association located in the Great Smoky Mountain Heritage Center’s Auditorium. Learn of the rich history from historians as they share some great stories. Lunch will be offered on Saturday for $10. (Beans, Greens, Cornbread, Cobbler, and a Drink) Cash Only.

2020 Winter Heritage Festival

A portion of the proceeds will be donated to “Coats for our Community”. Donations of Coats and Jackets are welcome and will be given to those in need in our community. If you need more information about the event please visit our Facebook event page.

Tennessee Winter Beer Fest 2020

Beer lovers this is for you. On Saturday, February 15th, 2020 the Tennessee Winter Beer Fest will celebrate its 9th year from 3pm to 8pm at The Carriage House Restaurant in Townsend. Several local businesses are sponsoring the TWBF including Grayson Subaru, The Brewing and Distilling Center, Knox Brew Tours, The Townsend Abbey The Causal Pint and Tri-County Portables.

tennessee-winter-beer-fest-2020

The Talley Ho Inn, Townsend Gateway Inn, and the Highland Manor Inn are all donating 20% from the rooms booked for the fest back to TWBF. This event is sure to be a great time for all. To see a list of current attendees and any other questions please visit the Tennessee Winter Beer Fest website.

Smoky Mountain Fall Festival

The 2019 Smoky Mountain Fall Festival will take place October 26th in Townsend, TN.

Make sure to bring the family for a fun day with Food trucks, arts and crafts vendors, antiques, baked treats, games, hay rides and more. The event is free with a $10 charge for parking.

smoky mountains fall festival townsend tennessee

We will be having fun all day rain or shine! Gates are open from 10am until 7pm.

Come out and enjoy the beautiful weather and people that make our community so great.

Townsend Grains and Grits Festival

Enjoy Townsend’s celebration of Southern spirits & gourmet grub at the 2019 Grains & Grits Festival.

The event takes place on Saturday, Nov. 2 from 6 – 9 PM at the Townsend Visitors Center

townsend grains and grits festival

Come out and enjoy a unique opportunity to experience our craft spirits and gourmet food community, while discovering some of the region’s legendary distillers and blenders in the Peaceful Side of the Smokies.

The Townsend Grains & Grits Festival provides an intimate sampling event and lots of entertainment guaranteed to get you moving.

This is a 21 and over, rain-or-shine event.

2019 Invade the Cove
Sunday August 25th at 11 AM – 3 PM

Hosted by Smoky Mountain Jeep Club

If you love Jeeps and want to take a ride through Cades Cove this is the event for you. The morning after the Jeep Invasion Event, The Smoky Mountain Jeep Club will host a special ride called “JEEPS INVADE THE COVE”. Cades Cove is the most scenic drive in the Smokies and a great way to spend the day.

jeep club smoky mountains

We will meet at 11:00am on August 25th at the Townsend Visitor’s Center at 7906 East Lamar Alexander Parkway, Townsend, TN 37882 and leave at Noon. Jeeps, Cades Cove and the great outdoors!

Music on the Porch Day

Saturday, August 31, 2019 at 1 PM – 4 PM

Hosted by Great Smoky Mountains Heritage Center

Join in and celebrate with music. Last year thousands of musicians from at least 60 countries and over 600 cities participated and the movement continues to grow every day. Musicians from across the globe, regardless of their differences, are finding common ground through music.

music on the porch day
Play Music On The Porch Day knows that music is powerful and universal.
Bring the family and enjoy a day of music celebration.

4th of July Celebration & Fireworks – Townsend

Thursday at 7 PM – 11:30 PM

Don’t miss out on this years 4th of July Celebration and Fireworks show at the Highland Manor Inn and Conference Center. Come enjoy a day of family fun, music and fireworks with the amazing people of Townsend! Music will be provided by The Jeff Jopling Band and Tate Roberts.

highland manor inn hotel 4th of july celebration townsend

Admission is free. For more information please call (865) 448-6886.

Highland Manor Inn & Conference Center
7766 E Lamar Alexander Pkwy, Townsend, Tennessee 37882

Townsend 15 K

Sun, Sep 8, 8 – 10 AM

Runners make sure to sign up for the Townsend 15 K. A lovely, scenic and challenging course that runs on back-country roads near the Little River. Course closes after 2 hours – this is not a course for walkers. This course is open to traffic, headphones are prohibited.

townsend 15k-run-smokies

For more information please visit the Townsend 15 k runners Website.

 

 

 

2019 SMOKY MOUNTAIN RECUMBENT RALLY

May 16-19

Don’t miss the 8th Annual Smoky Mountain Recumbent Rally, the largest recumbent rally in the southern United States and the third largest in the nation. Join us in the beautiful Smoky Mountains and enjoy two days of great rides in beautiful scenic locations right here in and around the Great Smoky Mountain National Park.

recumbent rally townsend tn event

This year we will be stationed again at the Highland Manor Inn and conference center. For more information please visit the rally website.

Townsend Fall Festival and Old Timers day

September 27-28, 2019

A fun day for all at the Townsend Visitors Center. Come out and celebrate with the good people of Townsend, Tn and our surrounding communities.

Music, Food & Crafts and more at this great event. Bring your lawn chair and enjoy genuine bluegrass music, arts and crafts, food, and Fall festivities for the entire family at the Townsend Visitor’s Center.

7906 E. Lamar Alexander Parkway, Townsend, TN 37882

townsend tn visitors centerArts and crafts booths include woodworking, pottery, jewelry, hand-sewing, and painting. There is an antique tractor show and guest storytellers share tales of the mountains. For more information visit the event page.

Townsend Spring Festival

May 3-4, 2019

Fun for the whole family at the Townsend Spring festival. Bring your lawn chair and enjoy genuine bluegrass music, arts and crafts, food, and have a great time. this event is for the entire family. Takes place at the Townsend Visitor’s Center.

townsend spring festival7906 E. Lamar Alexander Parkway, Townsend, TN 37882

This event is being hosted by the Appalachian Bear Rescue 

Old Timer’s Day at The Little River Railroad & Lumber Company Museum

Saturday May 4th 10:00 A.M – 5:00 P.M

Join the Little River Railroad for a fun event as Scott Payne, a traditional blacksmith from Heritage Forge, will be with us on Saturday to demonstrate his craft. He’ll also be offering knives, tools, and iron works. Our gift shop and museum will be open from 10:00 AM until 5:00 PM.

little river railroad and lumber company museum townsend

Bring the family and make sure to bring your camera. We are right across the street from The Highland Manor Inn.

2019 HEALTHY BLOUNT TRIPLE CROWN OF RUNNING

April 13th

This 21st annual event consists of the Spring Sprint (April 13), the Scholars Run (August 3), and the Reindeer Run (December 8). To be eligible for the Triple Crown cash awards and a special memento, participants must compete in all three races.

woman getting award for competing in marathonMake sure to Register for all 3 races of the Triple Crown prior to the Spring Sprint and receive a $5 discount off the entry fee of each event. To register, go to the parks and rec website.

This event is a 5K (3.1-miles) road race and 1-Mile Fun Run/Walk and is the second event of the Healthy Blount Triple Crown of Running.  The race begins and ends on the Maryville College campus.  Individual and team competition will take place.

Special awards will be given to the Overall and Masters winners, the top three finishers in each age division, and to the top three teams in the 5K. All Fun Run/Walk participants will receive a ribbon.

 

 

Smoky Mountain Fiber Arts Festival

April 12-13

The 10th annual Smoky Mountain Fiber Arts Festival, presented by the Townsend Artisan Guild and the Tennessee Valley Handspinners Guild, will be Friday and Saturday, April 12-13, 9am-5pm, and Sunday April 14, 10-4pm. Admission is free and open to general public.

Make sure to sign up for the very popular classes on the website. Don’t wait to long as they will fill quick. For registration visit the Artisans Guild website and sign up.

outside view of townsend artisans guild and galleryThe Festival focuses on the “sheep to shawl” concept, and visitors will see the transformation of fleece into finished goods and art pieces. The Second Annual Fashion Show will offer an opportunity for vendors, instructors, and participants to model their artistic creations.

Smoky Mountain Snowdown, A Winter Festival

JANUARY 25 – JANUARY 26

great smoky mountains heritage festival townsendPresentations and programs at the Great Smoky Mountain Heritage Center about the families and history of the national park, celebrating the region’s cultural and natural history. Located in the Townsend, TN, great weather and beautiful views. For more information please visit the GSMH website.

 

Winter Woody Plant Identification

Townsend Events

Sat, January 26, 8:30am – 2:00pm

great smoky mountains institute at tremont townsend eventsThe Great Smoky Mountains Institute at Tremont, is offering this program for anyone that is interested in further developing their naturalist skills. Learn how to identify trees and shrubs in the wintertime. The Smokies are a great place to explore and learn. For more information please visit the Great Smoky Mountains Institute website.

 

Townsend Christmas Parade

December 2nd  2:30

Hosted by T & T Tree Service

Get ready for a fun day in Townsend as we have our annual Townsend Christmas Parade. the Parade will start at IGA at 2:30 and end at Nawger Nob.

Make sure to get there early to claim a good spot. Check out some great floats with candy and other goodies. Bring the family and tell your friends!

Reindeer Run

DECEMBER 2

This 20th annual event consists of the Spring Sprint (April 14), the Scholars Run (August 4), and the Reindeer Run (December 2).

A fun event for all ages and levels. Come out and join in or support your runner. T-Shirts and prizes for the place winners. A great way to bring in the Holiday Season

Check-In/Day of Race Registration and Packet Pick Up: 12:30 – 2:00 PM 5K Run 2:00 PM 1 Mile Fun Run/Walk 2:45 PM

For more information check out the Parks and Rec website.

 

Holiday Model Train Exhibit

NOVEMBER 09 – JANUARY 06

Don’t miss out on the Holiday Model Train Exhibit at the GSM Heritage Center. Opening on November 9th and Running on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays through January 6th!

The event will feature a Townsend/Walland landscape, a garden scale train, and a winter wonderland! For more information visit The GSM website.

 

Ornaments of Joy 2018 to benefit Appalachian Bear Rescue

NOVEMBER 17

Ornaments of Joy 2018 to benefit Appalachian Bear Rescue at Vienna Coffee House (212 College St., Maryville) from 9 a.m.-3 p.m.

ornaments of joy holiday partyJoin for a day of music, Vienna Coffeehouse coffee & food, and ornaments galore at the Ornaments of Joy event that benefits ABR Cubs! You can bid on hand-painted ornaments by ABR staff and other people that are special to ABR. Visit the ABR website for more information.

Music in the Middle: Story Telling Evening

OCTOBER 26

Join in for an evening of storytelling and music that will delight families of all ages.

Tennessee Tales: Story Telling Festival: A trio of Storytellers kicks off this festival on Friday, October 26th at 6pm, followed by a day full of family friendly storytelling workshops, music, and crafts, concluded with trick or treating through the grounds of the Heritage Center. Sponsored by Tennessee Arts Commission and Blount Partnership. Trick or Treating, storytelling, puppets and more.

For More Information check out the GSM Heritage website.

3rd Annual Fun Bearly 5K Run/Walk

OCTOBER 27

Make sure to Join Appalachian Bear Rescue for this fun 5K Run/Walk on October 27, 2018 at 10am, and support our bears.

The event will start and end at ABR’s Visitor and Education Center at Trillium Cove Shopping Center. There is a free free Pancake Breakfast for runners after the event.

Wear your ABR 5K shirt, or dress up in your Halloween Costume! There will be a prize for the best dressed runner!
This will be a fun, family-friendly event!! Visit the Appalachian Bear Rescue website for all information:

Great Smoky Mountains Fall Photo Tours and Workshops

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

When:  October 20-24, 2018

Where: Great Smoky Mountain National Park and Vicinity Tour begins and ends in Townsend, TN.

Fall Foliage Instructional Photo Tours and Workshops

Do you love photography and looking to enhance your skills. Join Slonina Photography for a photo tour or workshop to the Great Smoky Mountain National Park and the surrounding areas.

A one of a kind experience, this incredible biodiversity makes this one of the top areas in the country for nature photography.

The learning environment is truly unique as you get personalized one on one attention, critiques, and photography advice. Both in the field and in the classroom. I want to make sure you get the best shots while we are on location.

The trip is not a difficult one at all and is for all fitness levels.

Transportation: Transportation is provided from hotel to field locations in our comfortable van.

Lodging for this event will be at The Highland Manor Inn and Conference Center  (800) 213-9462

http://www.highlandmanor.com/

Great Smoky Mountains Institute at Tremont Homecoming Celebration  

OCTOBER 14

Get out and celebrate Tremont’s Homecoming Celebration on October 14th. Enjoy a great time in Great Smoky Mountains National Park fall weather. Crisp, cool air, campfires, friends and family as you enjoy a all that the season of lovely autumn has.

Join us for this great annual event and enjoy dinner, live music and nature walks. For more information visit the Great Smoky Mountains Institute at Tremont website.

Maryville College Homecoming

OCTOBER 26 – OCTOBER 28

Make sure to join in for the fun at the Maryville College Homecoming.
Its a weekend that’s sure to have something for everyone. On the list of events is the Harvest Crafts Festival and Bake Sale, athletic events, Homecoming parade, Decade Bash, children’s activities, tailgates, reunions, Homecoming Choir performance and awards ceremonies.

Don’t miss out on great weather and a lot of fun. For more information check out the Maryville College website.

 

Townsend Heritage Festival

September 28-29, 2018

A fun day for the whole family! Bring your lawn chair and enjoy the atmosphere, good people real bluegrass music, arts and crafts, food, and Fall festivities for the all ages at the Townsend Visitor’s Center.

townsend-old-timers-festival-20187906 E. Lamar Alexander Parkway, Townsend, TN 37882

Don’t miss out on the FREE Townsend Shuttle
hop on for FREE and tour Townsend.

For more information and a complete schedule please visit the events page for Explore Townsend

 

Blue Ribbon Country Fair

SEPTEMBER 29

The Great Smoky Mountains Heritage Center is celebrating the 12th Annual Blue Ribbon Country Fair.

Join us and compete in fun contests throughout the day hog calling rooster crowing and catching a greased pig.

Poultry, Produce, Canning, Baked Goods, Honey, Woodworking and Floral Design are just some of the exhibits that will be on display. For more information please visit the Great Smoky Mountains Heritage Center.

 

Corinne Coley and Bill Saltz at the Townsend Visitor Center

AUGUST 20 – AUGUST 25

The Townsend Visitors Center will be host to Corinne Coley with an exhibit room of handmade jewelry and Bill Saltz with a display of art and hiking sticks. Make sure to stop by.

Maxine Falls and Norma Tosh at the Townsend Visitor Center

AUGUST 27 – AUGUST 29

The Townsend Visitors Center will host Maxine Falls and Norma Tosh’s as they have a wonderful exhibit of homemade jewelry, art and miscellaneous crafts. If you love arts and crafts you don’t want to miss out.

Scholars Run 5K

AUGUST 04

The Scholars Run will be staged Saturday, August 4, 2018 – Physical Education Building on the Maryville College Campus.

This is the 2nd Event of the 2018. Those participating in ALL THREE events will be eligible for Triple Crown cash awards, door prizes and a special memento.

THE COURSE: 5K Course includes area city streets. Split times will be provided at each mile. The 1 Mile Fun Walk/Run is situated entirely on the Maryville College campus. There will be awards, prizes and T-Shirts for all participants.

 

 

Smoky Mountain Hot Air Balloon Festival

AUGUST 18

Don’t miss the Great Smoky Mountain Hot Air Balloon Festival. If you enjoy colors and beautiful backdrops this event is for you. The sky will be filled with a spectrum of color like never before, against a backdrop of a breathtaking Tennessee sunset.

Make sure to check out the Great Smoky Mountains Hot Air Balloon Festival website for more information on this fun family event.

JULY 13 – JULY 15

Smoky Mountain Classic

If you are a Softball fan the Smoky Mountain Classic is a cant miss event.

Considered the premier softball tournament in the country, this event draws the best teams and players in the country to compete for the championship. The tournament is sponsored by Louisville Slugger, The Daily Times, Blount Partnership and Hang Rite Athletics. Come out to Sandy Springs Park and celebrate the 50th Year Anniversary of this event! For more information on this event please visit the Parks and Rec website.

 

RT 73 CAR COLLECTOR’S SHOW

JULY 28

Car Show Townsend

Make sure to mark your calendars for the RT 73 CAR COLLECTOR’S SHOW on July 28, 2018 from 10:00 am – 4:00 pm. The show will take place at The Great Smoky Mountains Heritage Center.

The show is brought to you by the East Tennessee Region Antique Automobile Club of America and will include 50 antique cars 1917 Overland Touring Car, 1966 Corvair Convertible, 1956 Ford Parkland Station Wagon, 1948 Buick Super Sedan, 1959 Rambler Rebel V8, 1940 Plymouth Sedan, 1940 Ford Deluxe Coupe (Moonshine Car), 1954 Buick Skylark and a 1957 Chevy Bel Air Convertible, just to name a few. Food, prizes and a lot of good family fun.

For more information check out the Peaceful Side Of The Smoky Mountains Facebook Page.

4th of July Celebration & Fireworks

JULY 04

Don’t miss out on this years 4th of July Celebration and Fireworks show at the Highland Manor Inn and Conference Center. Come enjoy a day of family fun and fireworks with the amazing people of Townsend! This event is for everyone, locals, visitors, adults, kids and pets. For more information about the event please visit our 4th of July event page on Facebook or call (865) 448-6886.

Admission is free.

Summer Jam Car & Bicycle Show

July 20th

Another fun event for the month of July. Make sure to come out and enjoy browsing through the cars and checking out some great vendors from across the country. The event will be held at the Talley Ho Inn in Townsend, a perfect location for a day of family fun. For more about the event please visit the summer jam website.

Summer On Broadway & The Big BBQ Bash

JUNE 22 – JUNE 23

A fun day of cars, entertainment and some great BBQ. Don’t miss the Summer on Broadway June 22-23, a fun day of family fun for locals and visitors alike. For more information on the Bash check out there event page. Summer On Broadway

 

Hops In The Hills

JUNE 22 – JUNE 23

If you love craft beer this festival is for you. A yearly event that includes great beer, food, music and amazing people. Saturday’s main event is a brew festival from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. with a full schedule of events. Check out Hops in The Hills event page for more information.

Smoky Mountain Crawl

smoky mountains crawl townsendJune 8 – June 10

The nation’s largest small bore event is this weekend in Townsend, June 8-10. Join in and ride some of the best routes in the US, meet some great new people and help generate funds for charity. Don’t miss out on this great event. For More Info visit the Smoky Mountain Crawl website.

Taste of Art and Wine at Cades Cove Cellars

JUNE 09

Want to taste some great award-winning locally made wine? Cades Cove Cellars Taste of Art and Wine is a fun event and offers everyone a chance to enjoy their award winning wines. Located at the border of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park making it a perfect venue for wine tasting.

Second Annual Appalachian Bear Fest

SAT, JUN 2 AT 11 AM

Don’t forget to come out and enjoy the second annual Appalachian Bear Fest this Saturday! They will have plenty of activities, arts & crafts, live music, animals and fun for your whole family.
Joey Holt will be leading a back country hike this Saturday as well. Make sure to check out their Facebook Page for Additional information:

Synchronous Fire Flies

Thursday June 7th – June 14th

A must for all ages. Make sure you and your family see the wonder of the Synchronous Fire Flies in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. One of only two locations in the world that this phenomenon occurs. Transportation is only available at the Sugarlands visitor center.

For more information visit GSM Fireflies

 

Heritage Happening-Gala

MAY 19 – MAY 20

A fun event for everyone. Come out and enjoy the Heritage Happening-Gala May 19th and 20th at the Great Smoky Mountain Heritage Center.

The Heritage Center Guild presents the dinner and auction to raise funds for the continuing development of the Heritage Center and its extensive educational programs. Donations also are made to subsidize travel expenses for school groups who otherwise would not be able to afford to visit the Center. This year 8,000 students are expected to participate in the Center’s unique educational programs because of financial assistance from supporters of GSMHC.

 

Tour De Blount

MAY 19

The Townsend Visitors Center will be the location for the 2018 Tour de Blount. Once again, four routes with similar mileages will be offered. A post-ride meal will be provided, and at the request of many cyclists, beer will be offered at the finish. Riders will be able to rehash the highs and lows of their rides while enjoying a cold brew. A challenging ride as riders embark “The Wall” a 6 mile climb on Montvale Road which takes riders up the Western Side of the Foothills Parkway.  Our hope is to add local music, as well as food and bike vendors to our event. Please visit the Tour De Blount website for additional information.

New Midland Plaza Spring Arts and Crafts Fair

May 11 – May 13
May 11 at 9:00 AM to May 13 at 4:00 PM EDT

New Midland Plaza Spring Arts and Crafts Fair! A day of fun for everyone. Make sure to stop by for a day of crafts, ranging from candles and jewelry to paintings and kid-friendly archery bows!

New Midland Arts Festival

British Car Show at The Talley Ho Inn.

May 11th-12th 2018

Owners of British vehicles from around the USA come together to celebrate British and European cars and motorcycles. A popular event for car enthusiasts who come from all over the country to attend. Make sure to check it out May 11th and 12th. Read more about the British Car show here. Car show

Bluegrass music highlights the festival

May 4-5, 2018

Bring your lawn chair and enjoy genuine bluegrass music, arts and crafts, food, and Spring festivities for the entire family at the Townsend Visitor’s Center.

Located at 7906 E. Lamar Alexander Parkway, Townsend, TN 37882.

For a list of the the festivals events please check below.

Daily Schedule

May 4
Crafts & Demonstrations: 10 a.m.-6 p.m.
Food: 10 a.m.-8 p.m.
Music: Noon-10 p.m.

May 5
Crafts & Demonstrations: 10 a.m.-6 p.m.
Food: 10 a.m.-8 p.m.
Music: 11:30 a.m.-10 p.m.

Parking is $10 per day or $15 for two-day pass. Proceeds benefit the Townsend Volunteer Fire Department.
Parking passes may be purchased at the Townsend Visitor Center (7906 E. Lamar Alexander Pkwy., Townsend), the Maryville Welcome Center (201 S. Washington St., Maryville) or at the parking gate on event days.

FREE Townsend Shuttle
Don’t forget to hop on the FREE shuttle that takes you around Townsend.

Buses, donated from the Great Smoky Mountains Heritage Center, will run from the Heritage Center to Trillium Cove to Little River Railroad Museum to Cades Cove Cellars to Apple Valley to the Townsend Visitors Center and back to the Heritage Center.

One bus runs from 10:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. and a second from 11:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., both days.

The last bus will leave the Townsend Visitor Center at 6 p.m. and returns to the Heritage Center, on both Friday and Saturday.

Little River Railroad Days

May 5, 2018

Come on out to the Little River Railroad Museum on May 5th and celebrate the Little River Railroad Days!  Activities will center around what it was like way back when.  There will be blacksmiths, old rail cars, a steam engine and of course – the museum telling the story of the beginning of Townsend with he lumber company and the railroad.

Please take a minute to look at the Little River Railroad website to learn more about the rich history of our great community.

 

Tennessee Pottery Festival

May 5, 2018

Don’t miss the second year of the Tennessee Pottery Festival Saturday May 5th from 10 A.M.-4 P.M. The festival will be held at the Great Smoky Mountains Heritage Center in Townsend and features some of the nation’s finest potters. Love pottery? Make sure to join in a day of fun with an opportunity to take home some great pieces.  Learn about the different styles from the experts as they discuss their own techniques. Don’t miss out.

 

Townsend Artisan Guild Gallery Spring Sale and Reception

May 6th, 2018

Join the Townsend Artisan Guild Gallery for a spring sale and reception from 1:30-5 p.m. 

Townsend in the Smokies Spring Festival

Family event/something for everyone from arts and crafts, Appalachian demonstrations, bluegrass music, storytelling, food, antique tractor and engine show, barbecue vendors. Young Pickers Talent Contest Saturday morning. Promotes the heritage and culture of the area.

Be sure to experience lot of fun festival in the beautiful spring time in Townsend Tennessee!

 

Founders Festival

April 15, 2018 – Learn how the logging and railroad operations changed the community forever. Hear music from the early 1900’s. Eat food cooked like our forefathers would have prepared. Hear stories from the loggers. Watch the logging competition to be held at the Townsend Visitors Center. The University of Tennessee Forestry Department and other southern schools, colleges, universities will be seeing who can chop, saw, and run a log the best!  Visit the Founders Festival website to learn more about this fun event.

The Bronco Car Show

April 18, 2018 – April 21,2018
Townsend, Tennessee

The largest Bronco car show in the country!

Townsend Winter Beerfest

Great event every year and this year was a blast for all who attended. Please check back on date of event in 2019 and remember you can get your tickets online at the beer fest website. To learn more visit – Tennessee Winter Beerfest.

Smoky Mountain Crawl

The Smoky Mountain Crawl is America’s premier small bore motorcycle event. What does that mean? These are not big Harley-Davidson, Honda, or Indian street cruisers. They are smaller bikes. Without getting technical, it means that Townsend, Tennessee is about the be the home base for about 600 small bore motorcycles for three days.

The Smoky Mountain Crawl is held each year in Townsend. Hundreds of small bore motorcycle owners gather for three days of fun, riding, and hanging out. If you have a small bore motorcycle and think you may enjoy meeting new people, riding through the mountains, and showing off your bike, this may be the event for you.

This year, Tremont Lodge in Townsend is hosting the event. Reservations must be made directly with the property.

  • Come see how much fun a winter weekend can be! Call us now for reservations.
  • Plan your trip to the Smoky Mountains today! Enjoy our complimentary continental breakfast to get your day started. CALL NOW. We do have some vacancies.
  • Later when spring comes, explore the nearby attractions that include Tuckaleechee Caverns, fishing in Little River, hiking on the many trails in the National Park, golfing at Laurel Valley Country Club here in Townsend, or at one of the many other golf courses in the Blount County area. If bicycling is your passion, you can ride the bike trail in Townsend the full 9.6 miles as many times as you want and also access many of the back roads that are perfect for cycling. Horseback riding is a popular activity in the Smoky Mountains area and there are a couple of horse riding stables available in Townsend. Come visit and ride the trails.
  • If shopping is your “thing” you can shop till you drop in the craft stores here or the Outlet Malls in Pigeon Forge. Check out our Area Activities page for more things going on.