SmokiesFun.com

The Smoky Mountains is the place to gather for festivals, fairs, events and shows throughout the year. People are drawn to the Smokies and have found ways to combine their love for the mountains with other special interests. There is always something going on to give us an excuse to head for the mountains. There are car shows, motorcycle rallies and bike races. There are quilt shows, storytelling festivals, carnivals, outdoor dramas and more.

The diverse heritage of the mountain people is celebrated in many heritage and homecoming events. There are Native American festivals, Scottish festivals and games, folk festivals and more. There are homecoming festivals, railroad events and oldtimer days.

Craft shows and fairs are held throughout the year, some in combination with other events such as food festivals and music festivals. Food that inspires celebration in these mountains includes barbeque, tomatoes, apples and ramps. The love of music is apparent and connected in some way with many events. With others it becomes the main focus. There are bluegrass festivals, gospel festivals, cowboy music festivals and more.

The change of seasons is delightful in the Smokies, with each season having its own distinct character and charm. Summer days in the mountains offer an unlimited variety of things to do. Spring is a time of renewal, a time when the mountains show off their abundant wildflower beauty. People celebrate with wildflower pilgrimages, rhododendron festivals and springfests. Autumn is especially beautiful as the trees change into vibrant hues of gold, orange and red. Many harvest festivals occur during autumn. Winter brings its own level of charm to the mountains along with cold temperatures and treasured snowfalls. It is a quieter time celebrated with lighted decorations and winter festivals.

Holidays inspire celebration with special events, parades and fireworks that occur around Fourth of July, Labor Day, Christmas, and others. Dollywood, in particular, is transformed into a lighted winter wonderland for Christmas.

Maybe we don't need a special reason to celebrate the Smoky Mountains. The pristine mountain streams, peaceful hiking trails and awe-inspiring views are reasons enough. But it's so much fun to get together with other people who love the mountains too!