The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a fun place to go any day. In fact, it is an attraction that never closes. If you choose to come at certain times of year, there are special events that will help you learn about the area and see more stunning sights. Read on to learn more about some of the popular annual events and what to expect:
1. Mountain Life Festival
If you’re going to be on the North Carolina side of the park, check out the Mountain Life Festival in the fall. It takes place at the Mountain Farm Museum on U.S. Highway 441 in Cherokee on the third Saturday of September. See demonstrations of Appalachian harvest activities, such as apple butter making and cider pressing. You can also watch demonstrations of tasks settlers did in their daily lives. See soap making, hearth cooking, quilting, and more! Additionally, listen to some authentic mountain music and learn more about the history by taking part in the various cultural programs. For example, you can watch as live historians pose as settlers and act out parts of mountain life.
2. Plein Air at Tremont
An event on the Tennessee side of the park is Plein Air Smokies at the Great Smoky Mountains Institute at Tremont. The French phrase, “plein air,” means outdoor. This is a week-long event every September with indoor and outdoor painting sessions. Local artists will create their own unique artwork during painting demonstrations. The finished pieces are available for visitors to purchase. The proceeds benefit the Tremont Institute and all their educational programs. Get some stunning souvenirs for a great cause!
3. Cades Cove Loop Loope
The Cades Cove Loop Lope is the only organized footrace permitted in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. It takes place in November and offers a 5K route for those who want a short run. If you want something longer, go for the 10-mile course that is certified by the USA Track and Field Team. Both options offer stunning views of the area. See if you can set a personal record. Proceeds benefit Friends of the Smokies, a volunteer organization that puts on educational events in the park.
4. Spring Wildflower Pilgrimage
The Spring Wildflower Pilgrimage happens in late April. It has many events that incorporate the Smoky Mountain area’s beautiful wildflowers. A variety of species bloom in the park every year. They come in many different colors and unique shapes. Learn more about them as you attend educational hikes, art and photography workshops, and more! Visitors can purchase a pass to get full access to the event. Make sure to register early for any programs you want to be involved in, as they fill up quickly. Remember that picking any flowers during the event is prohibited! We want all visitors to enjoy the wildflowers at their full beauty!
Now you know that there are great events taking place at Great Smoky Mountains National Park all year! Read more about the best time of year to visit the Smokies!
