Wow Wilderness Wildlife Week - Pigeon Forge Jan 9-16,2010

ESCAPE WINTER’S DOLDRUMS WITH WILDERNESS WILDLIFE WEEK

Pigeon Forge event highlights Great Smoky Mountains National Park

PIGEON FORGE, Tenn. – After the excitement of December’s holidays, you need an antidote to the inevitable winter blahs, and Pigeon Forge has the answer. It is Wilderness Wildlife Week, Pigeon Forge’s annual tribute to Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

Dates are Jan. 9-16, 2010, for the eight-day extravaganza of seminars, workshops, photography classes, hikes and excursions that relate to the park and other outdoor topics. This is Wilderness Wildlife Week’s 20th year.

More than 150 experts—nature photographers, biologists, raptor rehabilitators, social historians and just plain folks who grew up in the Smokies—donate their time to present daily programs and a range of outdoor activities.

There are more than 230 programs and activities. Program topics vary daily, and admission is free to all activities. Topics include bears in the Smokies, the elk reintroduction project, the Smokies’ logging history, fire towers in the Smokies, close-up photography, trout fishing, fly-casting and birding by ear. Several programs are designed especially for children.

Almost 60 hikes and excursions into the national park complement the indoor programs. In 2009, more than 1,000 hikers from 18 states logged a cumulative 4,656 miles.

“The week is extremely flexible. You can attend one lecture or take one hike, or you can participate day after day,” said Leon Downey of the Pigeon Forge Department of Tourism. “It’s a great way to introduce people to the outdoors.”

Wilderness Wildlife Week began 19 years ago as a half-day program on a January Saturday. January hasn’t been the same since then in Pigeon Forge. The Southeast Tourism Society has chosen it 10 times as a Top 20 Event in the Southeast.

Wilderness Wildlife Week information, including a full list of programs and hikes, is available online at MyPigeonForge.com/wildlife or by calling toll-free to 1-800-WINTERFEST. #

Celebrate the New Year In Gatlinburg Or Pigeon Forge TN

New Year's Eve Ball Drop & Fireworks In Gatlinburg TN
Date: December 31, 2009

Gatlinburg welcomes the arrival of 2010 with a street party that begins around 11 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 31, 2009. An estimated crowd of 40,000 revelers gather in the streets of downtown Gatlinburg. At the stroke of midnight, the sky will light up with a fireworks and music show. The event is free to the public and features music and party favors.

Other New Years Eve Celebrations will be at various venues throughout Pigeon Forge, call 865.453.8574 for more details..

Stunning Synchronized Christmas Light Display In Sevierville TN

Stunning Synchronized Christmas Light Display - Sevierville, TN I-40 Exit 407 at the Smokies Baseball Stadium. Light Shows -Nightly 6:00 - 10:00pm till January 2, 2010

This holiday season, make sure that a night out at Smokies Park is in your entertainment plans. No, we're not talking about baseball. Rather the very best Christmas light show in all of East Tennessee! Join Shadrack Watersports & RV for their annual Christmas Wonderland light show as they look to help feed the hungry this holiday season!




The Christmas Wonderland is an award-winning drive-through and light show that is the largest of its kind in the country. Featuring hundreds of thousands of LED lights dynamically synchronized and dancing to the music, this experience is sure to be something you and your family won't soon forget! The show will consist of six (6) programmed songs and will be approximately 25 minutes in length. It is drive-through only as there will not be any place within the route to get out of your vehicle. There will be pull-offs though to sit and watch from your vehicle.

The Christmas Wonderland show is now here to experience at Smokies Park. The show will also be opening in Bristol on November 13 and in Knoxville on November 19. The show will be open nightly from 6:00-10:00 p.m. at all three locations through January 2, 2010. The show here at Smokies Park is located right off I-40 at Exit 407.

Admission for the show here at Smokies Park is as follows: $10 per car Monday-Thursday, $15 on Fridays and Saturdays. Activity vans are $20 (daily) and buses are $65 (daily). If you plan on coming on Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and/or New Year's Eve, those dates will be weekend (Friday-Saturday) rates.

For additional information, please contact Shadrack at (423) 652-0120 or visit the company's Christmas Wonderland page HERE.

Santa & Performing Groups Join Duggar Family For 20th Anniversary of Pigeon Forge Winterfest

Santa, Reindeer, Performing Groups to Join Duggar Family for Kickoff of 20th Anniversary of Pigeon Forge Winterfest

PIGEON FORGE, Tenn. (October 27, 2009) – The kickoff event for the 20th anniversary of Pigeon Forge Winterfest on Nov. 5 (Thursday) will feature multiple special guests.

In addition to the expansive Duggar family from TLC’s “18 Kids and Counting” TV show, the kickoff event in Patriot Park will feature Santa Claus—complete with reindeer and a photographer—plus choral, band and dance groups, the Pigeon Forge Community Chorus and bluegrass music from Jimbo Whaley and Greenbrier.

“This is the start of a great time of year for Pigeon Forge that is acknowledged far and wide. In fact, the 2009-2010 Pigeon Forge Winterfest is a Top 100 Event in North America, according to travel professionals assembled by the American Bus Association,” said Leon Downey, executive director of the Pigeon Forge Department of Tourism.

Activity begins at 4 p.m. with entertainment from several community groups. Comments from civic leaders and introduction of the Duggar family will precede the ceremonial flipping of the switch to turn on the city’s five million Winterfest lights at about 6 p.m.

The Duggars—Jim Bob and Michelle Duggar and their 18 children, plus one on the way—will be in Pigeon Forge for the second time this year. They visited in May for production of two episodes of “18 Kids and Counting.”

Bob Fowler, the Pigeon Forge Special Events Volunteer of the Year, also will participate.

The evening’s featured entertainment, the Pigeon Forge Community Community Chorus followed by and Jimbo Whaley and Greenbrier, will cap off the stage presentation.

Santa Claus and his reindeer will add to the festivities. A professional photographer will take pictures of guests with Santa and deliver complimentary photos on site.

Also complimentary that evening are rides on the Fun Time Trolley system’s Trolley Tour of Lights, which showcase Winterfest light displays throughout the community.

The afternoon groups performing are the Elizabeth Williams Dance Troupe, the Pigeon Forge Middle and High School Dance Teams, the Pigeon Forge High School Choir, the Pigeon Forge Middle School Honor Band and the Pigeon Forge High School Marching Band.

Five food vendors will be on hand with a variety of offerings. They will raise money for the American Legion, Pigeon Forge High School, Relay for Life and the Salvation Army.

Information about all aspects of Pigeon Forge Winterfest, including Wilderness Wildlife Week in January and Saddle Up! in February—is online at MyPigeonForge.com.

The Duggars To Flip Switch - Pigeon Forge's Winterfest Lights Nov 5, 2009

The Duggars To Flip Switch - Pigeon Forge's Winterfest Lights Nov 5, 2009

The Duggar Family from "TLC's 18 Kids and Counting" will once again come to Pigeon Forge.. They visited back in May to take part in the Dollywood Parade, this time will be all about LIGHTS!! Lots and lots of lights, millions of twinkling lights.... They will be flipping the switch in Patriot Park - Pigeon Forge TN to kick off Winterfest festivities on November 5th, 2009..

The holidays are one of the most exciting and beautiful times of the year in the Smoky Mountains... much of that is due to all of the colorful lights throughout the Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg area.. This year will be the first year that Pigeon Forge will have ground-level fireworks during this celebration.

Plan your trip to the Smoky Mountains, Pigeon Forge or Gatlinburg.. Check out lots of great cabins here http://www.BestCabinsByOwner.com

Guide to the Best"By-Owner"Vacation Rentals-Smoky Mtns of Tenn & NC

Dollywood & Pigeon Forge TN - Crafts Galore Oct 1-30, 2009

October Draws Craft Lovers to Pigeon Forge, Great Smoky Mountains

Two major crafts events highlight start of autumn leaf season PIGEON FORGE, Tenn. (October 2009)

Scores of talented artists and craftsmen seem to take a cue from Mother Nature when the leaves start changing colors in the Great Smoky Mountains and appear in Pigeon Forge, Tenn., for two major autumn festivals.

Basket makers, carvers, painters and others are on hand for the Pigeon Forge Rotary Club Craft Festival and Dollywood’s National Gospel & Harvest Celebration.

The Pigeon Forge Rotary Club Crafts Festival (Oct. 1-30) is one of the region’s biggest crafts events, attracting almost 50 craftsmen, artists and exhibitors from more than a dozen states. It takes place under a giant red and white tent at Patriot Park. Rotarians volunteer their time to run the festival, and proceeds benefit numerous charities.

Dollywood’s National Gospel & Harvest Festival (Oct. 2-31) complements the theme park’s regular operation with an array of traditional and contemporary craftsmen and adds scores of free gospel music concerts to the entertainment lineup. Among the featured crafts are spinning, weaving, sorghum making, fiddle making, rug hooking and woodworking.

Both events take place against the backdrop of Pigeon Forge’s Harvestfest season, which continues through Oct. 31.

During Harvestfest, businesses throughout the city erect fanciful fall displays of hay bales, scarecrows, cornstalks, pumpkins, gourds, sunflowers, mums and other symbols of the season.

The Pigeon Forge Travel Planner and information about all aspects of the city are available online at MyPigeonForge.com or by calling toll-free to 1-800-251-9100. The travel planner includes the Pigeon Forge Value Card, which offers more than $300 worth of discounts.

Tom Adkinson, APR615-341-3640

Help Sevier County Humane Society Win $1 Million Dollars - Vote For Miss Ellie !!

How easy could it be to help the Humane Society in Sevier County TN? Just Vote for Miss Ellie and the Sevier County Humane Society Could Win $1 Million Dollars. They need your help and it doesn't cost you a thing! If Miss Ellie, star of The Comedy Barn Theater in Pigeon Forge, wins the $1 Million Prize, she will donate 100% of her prize to The Sevier County Humane Society.

Go to: Cutest Dog Competition Find Ellie's picture by searching in the Search Box for Miss Ellie and click on "Vote Cute." Vote Once Everyday- Get Your Friends To Vote August 30th through September 5th. Please limit one vote per household or office per day. If Miss Ellie makes the top 12 Finalists The Comedy Barn Theater will donate $1 for every vote placed to the Sevier County Humane Society.

VOTE MISS ELLIE NOW! Send an email to: SevierHumane@AOL.com and say I Voted For Miss Ellie! This signs you up to be notified of contest progress.
______________________________________________________________________
Easiest way to find Miss Ellie is to click on “Cutest Gallery” at top of page, then search for “Miss Ellie”. You have to register before you can vote but they don’t ask for anything except your email address and for you to set up a password. Please vote daily!

Vote Miss Ellie for the Cutest Dog Competition - Remember beauty is in the eye of the beholder and just think how much help this will bring to homeless dogs in Sevier County !!

Shades Of The Past & Grand Fall Rod Run In Pigeon Forge - Sept 2009

It's almost that time again! Time to admire hundreds of classic cars, antique trucks and souped up rods. September is the month for Shades of the Past and the Grand Rod Run in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee.

Just plan to enjoy the crowds and backed up traffic. Check out the scenery - lots of incredible cars and the beautiful Smoky Mountains in the background!


September 11-12 2009 - Shades of The Past Rod Run XXVII - National Parks Resort Lodge & Smoky River Ranch; Fax (865) 995-9097 or Fax (865) 429-0159.




Sept 18-20 2009 - Grand Fall Rod Run- Grand Resort Hotel and Convention Center; For more information call 1-800-251-4444. -Pigeon Forge, TN

If you are looking for a cabin rental in the area - check out
http://www.bestcabinsbyowner.com/
Guide to the Best"By-Owner"Vacation Rentals-Smoky Mtns of Tenn & NC


Photos by C. Gilliam

78 Yr Old Man Hikes All Trails in the Smokies- THREE Times !

A 78-year-old man finished his third completion of hiking all the trails in the Smoky Mountains ! Wow, that is unbelievable.. Cecil Rowe became somewhat of a celebrity this week, he is now the oldest person to do that.

There are over 800 miles of trails in the Smokies making this a pretty big feat.. He even helps others with their hiking.. Cecil Rowe from Knoxville said of the beautiful Smoky Mountains - "Anybody who says the scenery gets old is not paying attention".

See this entire story at Knox News online.

Photo and source - Know News

Smoky Mountain Grocery - New Service Brings Groceries To Your Door !!

Wow, what could be better than vacationing in the Great Smoky Mountains?

Well, getting your groceries delivered right to your door.......no more waiting in lines at the store!! Get your vacation started immediately, no wasting time !!

Smoky Mountain Grocery just opened for business last week and they are starting off with a bang! Tim and Gina Bowers are the owners and they are ready to serve you.. Rent a Smoky Mountain cabin or hotel room, call, fax or email and they will schedule your "Pre Arrival Package".. Can you imagine having the fridge stocked with anything you can think of .......and you never have to step foot in the grocery store !!

Tim Bowers has been in the grocery biz most of his life........ His parents had stores and Tim has worked for such biggies as Kroger, HEB and Frito Lay...SO - he knows his business. He even has really, cool refrigerated trucks so that your delivery is totally........ fresh. This service is just a $15.00 delivery fee plus your purchase... You can't beat that!!

Smoky Mountain Grocery wants to be a company that gives back... They love the Smoky Mountains - like so many of us. They are donating $5.00 to Friends of the Smokies for each new fan that signs up on their Facebook page - help protect our beautiful Smoky Mountains, click here and become a Fan -

Delivery Monday-Saturday 7am-7pm Local Callers 877-4-VITTLES

You may place your order 24 hours a day!!!! 865-856-5300

Toll Free (877-484-8853) http://www.smokymountaingrocery.com

865-856-2700(fax)

We will be offering this grocery service at our pet-friendly cabins - Heavenly Cabins near Pigeon Forge Go to our Facebook Page and become a Fan and .. If you book a cabin rental with us in the next 30 days(at least 4 nights-expires 9/3/09), we will offer a free grocery delivery for up to $50 plus fee.

Smoky Mountain Tunes & Tales Continues in Gatlinburg TN Till 8/8/09

Gatlinburg Tennessee - Annual Event - 4th Annual Smoky Mountain Tunes & Tales™ Through August 8, 2009

All summer long visitors can meet characters, hear mountain music and learn about life in the Smokies on the streets of Gatlinburg, TN. Musicians, storytellers and cloggers perform at different locations along the Parkway every evening during this event!

Walk along the Great Smoky Mountains Parkway in downtown Gatlinburg and find the sounds of a dulcimer, strumming an upbeat mountain melody and find a group of people performing old fashioned clogging. Click to view event schedule.

These are a few of the entertainment mini-performances you will experience every evening through August 8, 2009 during your trip to the Smoky Mountains. It's Gatlinburg's Smoky Mountain Tunes and Tales™ - a continuing event for 2009, featuring costumed musical performers, storytellers and artisans portraying various time periods from the 1800s to today. Nearly a dozen acts involve the audience as they each perform in simultaneous ten-minute performances throughoutthe night.

"The goal of Gatlinburg's Smoky Mountain Tunes and Tales™ is to bring evenings of entertainment surprises to the traditional summertime Parkway stroll experience in Gatlinburg," says George Hawkins, Manager of Gatlinburg's Office of Special Events. "At 5:30 p.m. each night, a horse-drawn wagon will carry the performers to their designated locations for the evening. The rotating cast of acts including storytellers, musicians and crafters will share their stories and skills during the 2-day MountainFest™ event."

Thanks to the City of Gatlinburg, Tennessee for providing all Smoky Mountain Tunes and Tales™ info. Visit www.gatlinburg.com for more information on special events in the city of Gatlinburg Tennessee.

Info & Photo from http://smokymountaintunesandtales.com/

Lots of Smoky Mountain - 4th of July Celebrations!

Come to the Smokies and enjoy lots of 4th of July celebrations from Gatlinburg to Pigeon Forge!

July 1st -August 8
Smoky Mountain Tunes & Tales tm – All summer long visitors can meet characters, hear mountain music and learn about life in the Smoky Mountains on the streets of Gatlinburg. Storytellers, musicians and cloggers perform at different locations along the Parkway every evening during this fourth annual event!

July 3rd- 4th of July Midnight Parade – Saluting our valiant military services, this 34th annual showcase is the "First July Fourth Parade in the Nation!" Parade starts at the stroke of midnight to begin July 4th. Floats, balloons, and marching bands pay tribute to our country.

July 4th - River Raft Regatta – Visitors can enjoy a fun, unmanned, floatable object race for the whole family. Free registration begins at 10 a.m. at Christus Gardens bridge in Gatlinburg. Race begins at noon and ends at Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies bridge where prizes will be awarded in several different categories.

4th of July Fireworks Show – Join the celebration in downtown Gatlinburg to mark our nation's "Independence Day" with a magnificent fireworks show. The City of Gatlinburg lights up the mountain skyline downtown at 10:00 p.m. Sat July 4th with this grand display.

July 4th - The 19th Annual Patriot Festival - Patriot Park, Pigeon Forge

Pigeon Forge, TN –

Pigeon Forge’s 19th annual Patriot Festival celebrating the Fourth of July has an entertainment lineup designed to please the “Greatest Generation,” nostalgic Motown devotees, rock ‘n’ rollers and fans of country music. Fireworks booming over the adjacent Great Smoky Mountains will cap off a day of entertainment.

The cast of “Swing Time,” a Pigeon Forge show that highlights the Big Band music of the 1940s, will set a patriotic tone for the day with a tribute to America’s military and a stirring rendition of the national anthem.

More mellow music will come from the Temptations Revue, Pigeon Forge’s newest show, which celebrates the Motown Records success of an act that recorded more than 50 albums.

Three performance spots are reserved for country music. John Berry (“Your Love Amazes Me,” “Standing on the Edge of Goodbye” and dozens more) will fill Patriot Park with his rich voice, and festivalgoers will get to know two new artists—Sarah Darling, who just released her first album on Black River Music, and Knoxville native Homer Hart.

The pre-fireworks act is the Classic Rock All-Stars, a superstar group that includes Pete Rivera from Rare Earth, Dennis Noda from Cannibal and the Headhunters, Jerry Corbetta from Sugarloaf and Mike Pinera of Blues Image, Iron Butterfly and Alice Cooper.

Members of the Classic Rock All-Stars have been part of songs such as “I Just Want To Celebrate,” “Land of a Thousand Dances,” “Get Ready” and “Green-Eyed Lady.”

Other Patriot Festival entertainers include the Pigeon Forge Community Chorus (more than 40 members) and the Twirling Medallion Majorette and Drum Corps from Elkton, Va. This performing group is widely traveled and even has opened a show for Billy Ray Cyrus.

Entertainment begins at 1 p.m., and the fireworks will start about 9:45 p.m. WIVK-FM will broadcast the patriotic soundtrack to the fireworks show for observers throughout the city.

There is no admission charge for the Pigeon Forge Patriot Festival, a community celebration presented by the City of Pigeon Forge. Guests are invited to bring their own lawn chairs and blankets for festival seating.

The festival schedule is online at www.MyPigeonForge.com/patriot. The toll-free phone number of Pigeon Forge information is 1-800-251-9100.

Contact: Tom Adkinson tadkinson@bohanideas.com 615-341-3640

The "Little Greenbriar School" Still Teaching in the Smoky Mountains

The "Little Greenbriar School" is Still Teaching in the Great Smoky Mountains !!




The small log structure built in 1882, housed the "Little Greenbriar School". Children from nearby families attended this school for more than 50 years..










Though formal classes ended in 1935, teaching and learning did not.... The school still serves local children and Smoky Mtn Park visitors....




The Little Greenbrier School is located in the Greenbrier area between Gatlinburg and Cades Cove of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in the Wears Valley area.


The building served as both a school and the Primitive Baptist Church until 1935.


Inside you will see the types of desks the students of that time used. The Greenbrier cemetery is in front of the school, which is another interesting stop to make during your time in the Smokies.

Go to the Metcalf Bottoms Picnic area either by Lyon Springs Rd in Wears Valley or from the Park. Walk across the bridge to the Metcalf Bottoms Trail - 0.6 mile to the Little Greenbriar School. You can also continue 1.0 mile to the Walker Sister's Farmstead on the Little Brier Gap Trail - starting at the barricade up the hill from the school..

See more historical aspects of the park, hike the little Greenbrier Gap hiking trail(follow signs) that is 2.8 miles round trip. The trail begins near the school and leads you by the Walker sisters cabin. The trail runs from Wear Gap road to the Laurel Creek Falls Trail.

To reach the school by car, drive on up the road close to a mile and a half and you will see a sign saying Wears Cove straight on or Little Greenbriar School right.

Turn right........ This is a small, gravel, one lane road, but not one way! So pay close attention to oncoming traffic and any wide spots you may need to back up to in order to pass. When you reach the school, about a mile and a half, the road forks take the right fork down into the gravel parking area and enjoy a few minutes at the old school house.

Slow Down in the Smokies - Part 2 Townsend TN

Slow Down in the Smokies - Part 2


If you have not been to Townsend TN yet, you will definitely want to check it out -It's been labeled the "peaceful or quiet side of the Smokies"…


I love this sleepy little town !! Take Hwy 321/Wears Valley Rd away from Pigeon Forge. Travel down the mountain(about 6-7 miles from Wears Valley; 15 miles from PF), through several curves and as the road straightens out you will look over beautiful pasture land out to the mountain peaks beyond.


As you cross the bridge over the Little River to Townsend's only stoplight. You can rent tubes and float down the river in the hot summer or just try your hand at trout fishing(check with the local convenience stores in Townsend for fishing licenses).

At the stoplight in Townsend, if you turn left - you will be headed into the Great Smoky Mountain National Park and then on to Cades Cove. Also to the left, you will pass Smokin’ Joes BBQ restaurant - it sits on the Little River with a screened in porch for dining in the summer… GREAT ribs, BBQ and chicken....... Yum- and don't even get me started on the desserts ! Wonderful blackberry cobbler or the very special - pecan cobbler.




Just past here is the new Smoky Mountain Heritage Center The Center highlights the history of Native Americans and mountain life from periods 3000 B.C. (Native American) to 1930 (settlers).
The center is 17,000 sq feet on a 3-acre site and includes an additional 10 historic structures on site. The museum features displays of native artifacts showcasing the history of the Native Americans and many examples of pioneer artifacts such as tools and materials used in daily lives.

At the light in Townsend, if you turn right - there is a really nice local convenience/grocery store - The Village Market on the right - less than a mile.. They don't have a huge selection but do have a deli and bakery.. See the Townsend Visitor Center across the street....


There's a great walking or bicycle trail(wide sidewalk) all the way through Townsend across the street from the river. It is mostly flat with a few slightly rolling hills, you can rent bikes around town...

The Little River Railroad and Lumber Company Museum is just past the Village Market in Townsend....... It tells the story of the area's logging history with hundreds of photographs, restored equipment and interpretive exhibits.


Railroad buffs enjoy seeing one-of-a-kind locomotives and logging machinery and visiting with volunteer staffers rich with the knowledge of the old railroad's operations. In the early 1900's, a busy railroad operated in the Smoky Mountains, bringing tourists to the area and taking thousands of trees out. See the website for more info Little River Railroad

See Slow Down in the Smokies - Part 1

Slow Down in the Smokies- Part 1 Wears Valley & Townsend Tennessee

I really hate to admit this but I suppose the "older" you get, the less patience you have for the crowds and traffic congestion of the larger tourist areas of the Smoky Mountains..



Granted, I do love the convenience of a Super Walmart in Sevierville, various shopping outlets, fun, entertainment and lots of restaurant choices in the Pigeon Forge/Gatlinburg area........... but I also love slipping away from all of that to relax in the Wears Valley community just outside of Pigeon Forge TN.

I have found that I truly appreciate a slower, less hectic pace - particularly during vacation and it's only about 10 miles from all the action!! That's why I wanted to enlighten some of you that have not ventured over to the "peaceful or slower" side of the Smokies into Wears Valley, Townsend or Cades Cove TN. You really need to make the trip and SLOW down just for a while!

“Wears Valley” really begins just a couple miles after turning at stoplight # 3 – Hwy 321/Wears Valley Rd off the main Parkway in Pigeon Forge. The heart of the community really begins about 7 miles out… You will begin to see cows grazing by the creek and beautiful meadows with a backdrop of Cove Mountain in all its splendor..... Yes, Wears Valley has become a hot spot for lots of new cabin rental developments but it still has that special country charm for now..

You can have a great country breakfast at Grandmothers Kitchen in Wears Valley, big fluffy biscuits and pork tenderloin. If you are an antique or “junktique” lover, stop by Wears Valley Antique & Craft Gallery about 7.8 miles out on the right or visit the website Wears Valley Gallery. There are other antique stops there also..

One of the great secrets in Wears Valley is the little known access into the Great Smoky Mountain National Park. About 9 miles from Pigeon Forge, turn left onto Lyon Springs Road, follow this road into the GSMNP (a couple miles). You will cross the Little River bridge at the Metcalf Bottoms picnic area.

This is a beautiful shady picnic spot by the river. You can also take a short hike and step back in time to the "Little Greenbrier School" and the "Walker Sisters" home place.



Park at Metcalf Bottoms and walk across the bridge. Take the Metcalf Bottoms Trail 0.6 mile to the Little Greenbrier School. If you wish, you can continue 1.0 mile from the school to the Walker Sister's farmstead on the Little Brier Gap Trail. The Little Brier Gap Trail starts at the barricade uphill from the school.

Try this Route from Wears Valley to Gatlinburg – Scenic !
***If you come via Lyon Springs Rd to the stop at Metcalf Bottoms, you can turn left and follow the River Rd for a scenic drive to Gatlinburg through the National Park(right will take you to Cades Cove-scenic/longer**). This route will bring you out at the end of Gatlinburg(stoplight #10) at the Sugarland Visitor Center, hook a left to go into town about a 25 – 30 minute drive depending on traffic.



**A shorter drive to Cades Cove from our cabins or the heart of Wears Valley is to follow Hwy 321/Wears Valley Rd all the way to Townsend (about 6-7 miles), at the light in Townsend, turn left – follow signs to Cades Cove.

Traveling on Hwy 321/Wears Valley Rd about another mile past Lyon Springs Rd, you will pass Happy Hollow Rd on the right (which leads to Glimpse of Heaven and Inspiration Point cabins).



Just a short distance further, you should surely slow down for the Rocky Top Country Store on the left, if you are a chocolate lover...... Fresh homemade FUDGE takes top billing here !! They have every imaginable flavor. They also have gifts, local jams and jellies....... but who can resist that fudge …



Just a short distance past Rocky Top Store, you will find another historical treasure, Headrick Chapel Church –See the blog entry here about Headrick Chapel Church in Wears Valley.



Stay Tuned for Slow Down in the Smokies - Part 2

Storytellers Gather in Pigeon Forge-Storytelling Festival June 4-6,2009

Storytellers Galore Ready to Spin Yarns at Pigeon Forge Festival Smoky Mountains Storytelling Festival promises three days of tall tales June 4-6

PIGEON FORGE, Tenn.

Expect truth to be in short supply June 4-6 at the 18th Annual Smoky Mountains Storytelling Festival in Pigeon Forge, Tenn., but also expect a counterbalancing dose of entertainment, enchantment and, dare we say, education.

You’ll hear from a genuine possumologist, a keeper of Cherokee creation stories, a middle school principal who uses storytelling in the classroom and a cowboy poet whose Oklahoma retelling of “Ben Hur” inspires him to wear a watermelon and a bra on stage. (It’s something you just have to see to understand.)

In addition to the festival’s world-traveling, professional storytellers, you’ll also hear some of America’s budding tale-telling talent at the National Youth Storytelling Showcase. The showcase has attracted youngsters, none older than 17, from as far away as Utah, Texas, Maryland and Florida.

Many of this year’s storytellers will focus on stories that relate to Appalachia and the nearby Great Smoky Mountains. That’s one reason the festival is on the official calendar of the 75th anniversary of Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The festival also is on the Southeast Tourism Society’s “Top 20 Events in the Southeast” list for the fifth year in a row.

Three late-night programs (9:30-11 p.m.) augment the regular sessions. A Haunts and Haints ghost story session is Thursday, a tribute to Great Smoky Mountains National Park is Friday and a memorial to legendary mountain storyteller Ray Hicks is Saturday.

The Smoky Mountains Storytelling Festival is co-hosted by the City of Pigeon Forge and the Smoky Mountain Storytellers Association.

Featured storytellers:

+ Lloyd Arneach—A Cherokee storyteller who learned his first legends from two storytelling uncles on the Cherokee Reservation in North Carolina.

+ Donald Davis—A native Appalachian storyteller who performs nationally and teaches workshop that focus on family-based storytelling.

+ Doug Elliott—A storyteller, herbalist and naturalist who sings about catfish, pontificates about possums and plays a mean harmonica.

+ Todd Elliott—Doug’s son and a two-time participant in the National Youth Storytelling Showcase who now is following in his father’s footsteps.

+ Andy Offutt Irwin—A Georgia public radio show host who says he used to have real jobs before becoming a professional storyteller.

+ Kent Rollins—A genuine cowboy from Oklahoma, who also is a poet, chuckwagon cook and humorist (he’s the one with the watermelon and bra).

+ Elizabeth Rose—Principal of Cherokee Middle School in Roane County, Tenn., who blends southern folklore with fairy tales, ghost stories and international legends.

If You Go:The Smoky Mountains Storytelling Festival is June 4-6 (Thursday-Saturday). All sessions—concerts, the youth performances and workshops in which you can learn storytelling skills—are at the Belz Outlet Mall in Pigeon Forge.

Admission for the entire weekend is $25, and one-day admission is $10 for everyone age 18 and older (free for age 17 and younger). The three late-night programs are $5. T

he festival schedule is at www.MyPigeonForge.com/storytelling <http://www.MyPigeonForge.com/storytelling> , and complete visitor information about Pigeon Forge is available at www.MyPigeonForge.com <http://www.mypigeonforge.com/> or by calling toll-free to 1-800-251-9100.

About Pigeon ForgePigeon Forge, located in East Tennessee near Great Smoky Mountains National Park, is one of the country’s top tourism destinations, drawing more than 10 million visitors each year.

With more than 40 family-friendly attractions along its five-mile Parkway, Pigeon Forge offers family fun for all ages. The destination city is located within a day’s drive of two-thirds of the U.S. population east of the Mississippi River.

# Contact:Tom Adkinson, APRoutbind://99-000000001D9B0EF5FC515043B8B4E8D140EDE71E84619100/tadkinson@bohanideas.com <mailto:tadkinson@bohanideas.com> 615-341-3640

TLC's "The Duggars -18 Kids" Coming To Pigeon Forge

Duggar Family of '18 Kids and Counting' to vacation and work around Pigeon Forge.

It'll take a lot of planning on their part, but the Duggar Family of the TLC series "18 and Counting" plans to visit Pigeon Forge and Dollywood next month. They'll be part of Dollywood's annual Dolly Parton parade and shoot segments of their show while on vacation. The ever-expanding Duggar family will be visiting May 5 -9 to "explore" Dollywood and shoot an episode of their show.

Pigeon Forge Mayor Keith Whaley invited the reality TV family; Their trek here will have them traveling 750 miles from their hometown of Springdale, Ark., to participate in the upcoming Dolly Parton Homecoming Parade on May 8.

The Duggar family trip to Pigeon Forge will be featured in a summer episode of "18 Kids and Counting," which airs on TLC Tuesdays at 9 p.m. Each episode chronicles the lives of an Arkansas couple, Jim Bob and Michele Duggar, and their 18 natural-born children, who range in age from four months to 21 years. The family includes two sets of twins. For more information, visit TLC.com.

Details of Parton's float are a secret, but the Duggars will participate with an honorary float the City of Pigeon Forge has crafted for them.

In days leading up to and after the parade, the family will visit many Parkway attractions during their five-day stay, including seeing several live comedy and musical theaters, going to Zorb, the mountain-side free-fall inside a gigantic ball.

Info from Knox News Blog
Posted by Terry Morrow

Townsend in the Smokies Spring Festival on May 1-3, 2009

Upwards of 20,000 visitors are expected at the 17th annual Townsend in the Smokies Spring Festival on May 1-3, 2009 at Townsend Visitors Center on East Lamar Alexander Parkway.The Townsend festival was established as an extension of Old Timer's Day held in Cades Cove inside Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

The original festival consisted of bluegrass bands and musicians jammin' and pickin' on the porch. Today's festival has grown to include bands performing on stage and on the grounds.The festival will kick off Friday, May 1, with Great Smokies and Nature Celebration Day. The day will consist of special activities to celebrate the 75th Anniversary of the Park, which is being celebrated all year, and the beauty of nature.

Old Timer's Day will be held Saturday, May 2.The weekend will conclude Sunday, May 3, with an unofficial day of special activities designed to highlight the beauty and traditions of the mountain community on Tuckaleechee Cove Day.The vast majority of events are free and showcase mountain culture and Appalachian heritage.

May 1 events:9 to 11 a.m. -- Wildflower walk on Chestnut Top Trail in the Smokies with Tom Harrington, local naturalist and Park volunteer, walk will be limited to 25 people, meet at the visitors center, call 448-6134 to reserve a spot.10 a.m. --

Hedgewood Gardens Tour, meet at visitors center, $7 fee per person to benefit Hearts and Hands Scholarship Fund.11 a.m. --

Clogging demonstration and instruction with Jack Patton on the stage at the visitors center.1 to 5 p.m. -- White Oak Sinks Hike (moderate difficulty) with Ann Froschauer, limit 15 people, meet at visitors center, call 448-6134 to reserve a spot.1 to 4 p.m. --

Featured author and book signing, Steve Cotham with historic photographs from the McClung collection at visitors center. Cotham's book, "Images of America: The Great Smoky Mountains National Park," tells the story of the Park through old photographs.2 p.m. --

Hedgewood Gardens Tour, meet at visitors center, $7 fee per person to benefit Hearts and Hands Scholarship Fund.May 2 events:8:30 to 10:30 a.m. --

Young Pickers Talent Contest, bluegrass music contest for pickers 17 years of age and younger at visitors center stage.9 to 11 a.m. --

Young folks program in the storytelling tent, with games, music, stories and more.10 a.m. to 5 p.m. -- Old fashioned kid's games in field behind visitors center.11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. --

Old Harp Sing, shape note music with the East Tennessee Old Harp Singers in storytelling tent.1 p.m. --

Dowsing demonstration with Charlie Monday, meet at storytelling tent.1 to 4 p.m. -- Storytelling with Lendel Abbott, Roy Harper, Robin Goddard and Richard Hilten.4 to 5 p.m. --

Old Time Music program with Carl and Betty Ross in storytelling tent.6 p.m. --

Smokin' in the Smokies BBQ Peoples Choice Awards.May 3 events:9 a.m. --

Wildflower Walk on Chestnut Top Trail with Dwight McCarter, limit 25 people, meet at visitors center, to register call 448-6134. McCarter is author of the book "Lost" and is a retired park ranger.1 to 3 p.m. --

Old Tremont Stroll with naturalist/historian Rebecca Vial, meet at visitors center.2 to 4 p.m. --

Porch Pickin' Gospel Signing and old time jam sessions on porch and around the grounds.2 p.m. -

Hedgewood Gardens Tour, meet at visitors center, $7 fee per person to benefit Hearts and Hands Scholarship Fund. Other events available both days, including:Bluegrass music on the stage and pickin' on the porch and in the adjacent grove.7 p.m. concert by Steve Kaufman, three-time national flatpicking guitar champion.

Evening square dance with caller Don Tipton and the Carolina Bluegrass Boys in stage area.Arts and crafts booths along Townsend bike/walking trail.Smokin' in the Smokies BBQ and other foods. Blount County Chamber of Commerce will be selling hot dogs, drinks, popcorn and chips.Cake raffles and bake sale for Hearts and Hands Scholarship Fund.Arts and crafts demonstrations in exhibit room of center.

Basketry by Bonny Kate Sugg.Woodcarving by Lendel Abbott.Quilting by Ila Mae Morton and Maetta Conrad.Rug hooking by Bonny Kate Sugg.Weaving by Effie Suttles.Spinning by Dale Liles.Charcoal/pencil art by Andy England.

Antique cars, Smoky Mountain Model A Club, in front of visitors center.Antique tractors and engines, Foothills Tractor Club, in field behind visitors center.

Appalachian demonstrations around the grounds.Mountain berry basket making and poetry by Bill Alexander.Lye soap making and other old time skills by Sallie Swor.

Pottery by Carol Ware.Beekeeping and bee hive observation by Tony Holt.

Blacksmithing by Hugh Bowie.Moonshine still by Bill Leistner.

Cornmeal making by Ronald Fowler.

Visitors can learn about the heritage of Cades Cove from the Cades Cove Preservation Association exhibits and about one of the Smokies' most renowned animals at the Appalachian Bear Center activity booth.The visitors center is located at 7906 E. Lamar Alexander Parkway, Townsend.

Townsend in the Smokies festival is a green event. Visitors are encouraged to dispose of their trash properly. Keep Blount Beautiful and Spectra Inc. will have recycling containers for plastic bottles and aluminum cans placed throughout the festival grounds. Proceeds will go to Hearts and Hands Scholarship Fund

Info from the Maryville Daily Times

New ZipLine At Dollywood In May 2009 !!

Wow, just read about this on InterPark.com's site I don't see anything about it yet at Dollywood's website .. How cool to zip over Dollywood !! Check it out..

Dollywood in Tennessee, US, is preparing to launch what will be the first multiple station zip-line experience in a US theme park.

Opening in May 2009, SkyZip will allow guests to travel over the 150-acre theme park, which is surrounded by the Great Smoky Mountains.The hour-long adventure will include up to five zip-line treks ranging in length from 100ft to nearly 1,000ft and a 100-foot long swinging bridge perched above the trees.Each zip-line is an elevated and inclined wire from which a pulley and a seating apparatus are suspended allowing the guest to move between two points via gravity."

SkyZip is the first of a series of premium experiences Dollywood plans to launch in the coming year," said Dollywood president Ken Bell. "These high level family experiences are 'ready-to-go' meaning our guests just show up for the thrills, no previous experience or expensive gear needed." Each SkyZip tour offers a distinctive adventure with a theme.

Fliers will launch from a perch above the park's region called Wilderness Pass and soar to Dollywood's triple spiral-looping rollercoaster, Tennessee Tornado, and beyond.One trail takes adventurers close to Eagle Mountain Sanctuary. After a brief hike, the adventurers will zip above Craftsman's Valley, which houses Dollywood's artisans, to the same point where their adventure began.

Info from Interpark.com

Dollywood Opens This Sat - March 28, 2009 !

Dollywood - Pigeon Forge TN Opens This Sat - March 28, 2009 !

Season Begins Saturday!
One sure sign of springtime in the Smoky Mountains is Dollywood’s opening day which is Saturday, March 28. Mark your calendars and make plans to enjoy Dollywood’s 24th season.

Explore the best in award-winning rides, live entertainment, authentic crafters and fantastic food plus four of the South’s largest festivals, beginning with Festival of Nations (March 28 - April 27). It’s the Smoky Mountain family adventure, and you’ll only find it at Dollywood!

Dollywood - Money-saving Prices Extended Through April 26, 2009!
There’s still time to take advantage of the great savings on a Dollywood season pass. The lowest prices of the season have been extended through April 26. Enjoy Dollywood’s entire 2009 season for less than the cost of two one-day admissions with the purchase of a season pass.

Purchase now through April 26 and receive pre-season prices. Remember, prices increase by $10 per pass after April 26, so purchase now to get a great, money-saving deal on an entire season of Smoky Mountain family adventure!
Learn More Purchase

Don’t miss Imaginé presented by Le Grand Cirque! In a show produced exclusively for Dollywood, Imaginé welcomes a world-class cast of amazing performers in a spectacular show sure to leave you on the edge of your seat!
See acrobats, aerialists, jugglers, clowns, mimes and high wire artists as they amaze audiences with their athletic ability. Plus, Festival of Nations brings an entire lineup of international shows with visiting groups from Africa, Mexico, Belgium and beyond. Make plans now to enjoy the entertainment and artistry of Dollywood’s Festival of Nations (March 28 - April 27).
Learn More

Images and info from http://www.dollywood.com/

Plan your spring trip to the Smoky Mountains now, check out plenty of perfect vacation cabin rentals just for you..

Check Out More Info About the Smoky Mountains

It's always fun to read about one of your favorite places! Now, we have a new blog that shares our love of the Smoky Mountains.. The Go Smoky Blog not only shares news and information about the Smokies, the writer of the blog - Raymond Owens also has an online Radio Talk Show. The topic of his Radio Talk Show??? Well, of course it would be the Smoky Mountains!!

Raymond has interviewed quite a variety of people from the area.. Some of the recent topics have been: Caving in the Smokies, Skiing in the Smokies and Geochacing in the Smokies. Raymond and his wife fell in love with the Smoky Mountains many years ago, since then they visit there every chance they get. During those visits, he shares lots of great local information.

Please check out all the great stories and interviews from Raymond at the Go Smoky Blog and his online Go Smoky Radio Show

Gatlinburg TN 2009 Calendar of Events

Gatlinburg TN 2009 Calendar of Events - Come Enjoy the Smokies in 2009 !

Jan 24, 31
Gatlinburg Winter Magic tm Trolley Ride of Lights - Enjoy a guided trolley tour of spectacular Gatlinburg Winter Magic tm lighting displays. Departure is from the Ripley's Aquarium Trolley Station. Group reservations are available. Trolley leaves at 6:30, 7:30 and 8:30.

Jan 5 - February 27
Night Magic Skiing - Purchase a $15 Lift Ticket Monday through Friday (non-holidays) from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. at Ober Gatlinburg (865) 436-5423.

February 1-27 2009
Night Magic Skiing - Monday through Friday (non-holidays) 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. Ober Gatlinburg (865) 436-5423.

February 1-28
Gatlinburg Winter Magic tm - The City of Gatlinburg magically lights up the winter nights with over three million spectacular lights. Special lighting displays for "Smoky Mountain Romance" in February.

Feb 2-3 Tennessee Winter Special Olympics - Winter sports competitions including ice skating, snowboarding and snow skiing. Ober Gatlinburg (800) 251-9202.

Feb 6 Southern Exposure 2009 at Ober Gatlinburg - Skiing and snowboarding competitions include slalom races (giant and parallel), jumping, and awards ceremony. Event also includes the unique Cardboard Sled Classic Race featuring homemade sleds constructed of cardboard, paper, tape and adhesive. (800) 251-9202.

TBA
Rock Gatlinburg - Aspiring high school and middle school band performers and individual musicians get the opportunity to meet and receive guidance from professional musicians during this event hosted by the Gatlinburg Recreation Department at the Community Center. Participants can learn about computer recording, explore professional work opportunities and walk away with a CD recording. For information, contact Laurence Evans or Dave Anderson (865) 436-4990.

TBA
Pirate's Ball - Mountain Hope Good Shepherd Clinic, Inc. presents its fourth annual Pirate's Ball fundraiser sponsored by Ripleys Aquarium of the Smokies. Guests can enjoy a "tropical climate" and live music, dancing, food and drink, with a special party for the kids. For more information, call Elaine Miller at 865-774-7684.

TBA
Anna Porter Public Library Murder Mystery - Locally produced and cast theatrical performance is a library fundraiser. (865) 436-5588.

March 11 - June 7 2009
Smoky Mountain Springfest - A countywide celebration of the season featuring special events, local craft shows and much more.

March 16-18 Celebrate Santa - Santa Claus is coming to Gatlinburg! Join hundreds of Santa Clause and Mrs. Clause as they gather at the Convention Center for their convention, trade show and gala. Imagine a town filled with Santas, Mrs. Clauses, Reindeer Owners and Breeders and even Elves. Real-bearded and designer-bearded Santas and even those who have never donned the red suit (but think they might like to) are welcome, regardless of experience, affiliation or interest. For more information or to register, visit http://www.celebratesanta.com/

TBA
Music of the Mountains - In association with the City of Gatlinburg and Great Smoky Mountains Association, Great Smoky Mountains National Park presents its fifth annual event highlighted. This year's begins at Sugarlands Visitors Center with free, limited-seating performances by a series of acts.

April 2009 till June 7th
Smoky Mountain Springfest - Join in a countywide celebration of the season, featuring special events, local craft shows and much more.

April 4 Mountain Man March - This second annual 26.2-mile march starts in Downtown Gatlinburg at 7 a.m. as a tribute to our men and women in uniform. The course includes highway and rural road stretches in addition to rugged terrain and mountain slopes. The event honors 1LT Frank Walkup, a University of Tennessee-Knoxville alumnus, who was killed in the line of duty in Iraq in 2007. Pre-registration is required, with Military Heavy, Military Light and Civilian entry categories. Visit http://www.mountainmanmarch.com/

April 8-11 2009 Great Smoky Easter Arts & Crafts Show - Unique handcrafted gifts are made by members of Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community and placed on display as they host their annual show at the Gatlinburg Convention Center.

April 12 Easter Sunrise Service at Ober Gatlinburg - Early morning Easter Service at Ober Gatlinburg includes complimentary tram service to the top of the resort begins at 6:15 a.m. Service begins at 7 a.m. Breakfast buffet available. (800) 251-9202

TBA Gatlinburg Gateway Triathlon - The third annual triathlon at the Community Center starts at 8:15 a.m. and is open to anyone 15 years and older capable of swimming one-half mile, biking twenty kilometers, and running five kilometers consecutively. Awards will be given in multiple age categories (men's and women's division), plus a mixed team relay event, plus a mixed team relay event. Pre-register is required. (865) 436-4990

April 22-26 59th Annual Wildflower Pilgrimage - Celebrate the 75th anniversary and enjoy the beauty of Great Smoky Mountains National Park with over 150 different programs, including hiking tours, motorcades, demonstrations and classroom lectures centered on the flowers, plants and wildlife in the great outdoors. For more information, call (865) 436-7318 ext. 222 or visit http://www.springwildflowerpilgrimage.org/.

April 23 Ribfest & Wings - Enjoy the area's best ribs and wings as well as free entertainment during this eighth annual event. One admission allows sampling until the ribs and wings run out on River Road and Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies Plaza.

April 24-25 Gatlinburg's MountainFest: A Celebration of Our Heritage - Enjoy two fun-filled days of bluegrass and genuine mountain music along with crafters and demonstrations. Local crafters demonstrate their skills passed down from generation to generation. On Saturday, get a taste of some of the local talent with the Mountain Strings Competition. Fiddles, banjos and guitar players are invited to compete for awards and cash prizes. Festival runs from noon to 10 p.m. on Friday and 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Saturday in downtown Gatlinburg.

May 1st till June 7th 2009 Smoky Mountain Springfest - Join in a countywide celebration of the season featuring special events, local craft shows and much more.

May 15 Gatlinburg Scottish Festival Grand Parade - All Scots are invited to march or ride in the parade as a kickoff to the 28th Annual Gatlinburg Scottish Festival & Games. Parade begins at 6 p.m. at traffic light #10, downtown Gatlinburg. For more information visit http://www.gsfg.org/.

May 16-17 Gatlinburg Scottish Festival & Games - 28th Annual Scottish clans meeting at Mills Park featuring Highland athletics, bagpipe competitions, Highland dancing, border collie demonstrations, haggis hurling, entertainment and whiskey tasting, along with food & merchandise vendors. For information visit http://www.gsfg.org/

Gatlinburg Fine Arts Festival - A family oriented fine arts festival at Ripley's Plaza and River Road featuring juried artists from around the country, delicious cuisine and music. Proceeds benefit Arrowmont School of Art and the Sevier County Arts Council. (GSE) (888) 240-1358 or http://www.gfaf.net/

June 1-7, 2009 Smoky Mountain Springfest - Join in a countywide celebration of the season featuring special events, local craft shows and much more.

June 12-August 8, 2009
Smoky Mountain Tunes & Tales tm - All summer long visitors can meet characters, hear mountain music and learn about life in the Smokies on the streets of Gatlinburg. Storytellers, musicians and cloggers perform at different locations along the Parkway every evening during this fourth annual event!

June 19-21 Living History Civil War Reenactment at Mills Park - Visitors can witness artillery and cavalry demonstrations as Civil War period performers gather in authentic encampment. Historical portrayals, a cannon drill and music along with the recreation of the "Battle of Burg Hill" are among the festivities at this second annual event. (800) 568-4748.

July 1st till August 8, 2009 Smoky Mountain Tunes & Tales tm - All summer long visitors can meet characters, hear mountain music and learn about life in the Smoky Mountains on the streets of Gatlinburg. Storytellers, musicians and cloggers perform at different locations along the Parkway every evening during this fourth annual event!

July 3- 4th 2009 July Midnight Parade - Saluting our valiant military services, this 34th annual showcase is the "First July Fourth Parade in the Nation!" Parade starts at the stroke of midnight to begin July 4th. Floats, balloons, and marching bands pay tribute to our country.

July 4 River Raft Regatta - Visitors can enjoy a fun, unmanned, floatable object race for the whole family. Free registration begins at 10 a.m. at Christus Gardens bridge. Race begins at noon and ends at Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies bridge where prizes will be awarded in several different categories.

4th of July Fireworks Show - Join the celebration in downtown Gatlinburg to mark our nation's "Independence Day" with a magnificent fireworks show. The City of Gatlinburg lights up the mountain skyline downtown at 10:00 p.m. with this grand display.

July 17-26 Gatlinburg Craftsmen's Fair at Gatlinburg Convention Center - Art, crafts and music lovers can find over 200 booths featuring some of the nation's finest work. Artisans and craftspeople are on hand to demonstrate their skills, answer questions and offer their unique art for sale. Live Country & Bluegrass entertainment. Open 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily, Sunday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

August 1-8, 2009 Smoky Mountain Tunes & Tales tm - Through early August, visitors can meet characters, hear mountain music and learn about life in the Smokies on the streets of Gatlinburg. Storytellers, musicians and cloggers perform at different locations along the Parkway every evening during this fourth annual event!

October 8-25, 2009 Gatlinburg Craftsmen's Fair - Art, crafts and music lovers will find over 200 booths featuring some of the nation's finest work. Artisans and craftspeople are on hand to demonstrate their skill, answer questions and offer their unique art for sale. Live Country & Bluegrass entertainment. Open 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily, Sunday until 5 p.m. at Gatlinburg Convent

Plan your trip early to Gatlinburg and the Smoky Mountains and find the perfect cabin rental through Best Cabins By Owner !!

Antique & Classic Car Lovers Rod Run -Pigeon Forge 2009

Antique and Classic Car Lovers Unite In Pigeon Forge in 2009 !

Here's the schedule for the 2009 Rod Run, Shades of the Past, Classic Car and Gold Wing shows in Pigeon Forge TN in 2009. Make plans now, book a great cabin

and enjoy the Smoky Mountains in 2009..

April 17-19 2009 Grand Spring Rod Run - Grand Resort Hotel & Convention Center; For more information call, 1-800-251-4444. -Pigeon Forge, TN

April 24-26 Gold Wings - GRHCC; For more information call 1-800-251-4444.

May 15-17 2009 Chevy Classics Roundup - 1955, 1956, 1957 Chevy Classics Show, (865) 984-3758; Inn at Christmas Place. -Pigeon Forge, TN.

June 5-6 2009 Pontiacs in Pigeon Forge - Classic Car Show, 865-379-9595, Music Road Convention Center

June 25-28 Great Smoky F-100 Run - SSCC; Fpr more information call 1-800-251-4444.

Septmeber 11-12 2009 Shades of The Past Rod Run XXVII - National Parks Resort Lodge & Smoky River Ranch; Fax (865) 995-9097 or Fax (865) 429-0159.

Sept 18-20 2009 Grand Fall Rod Run- Grand Resort Hotel and Convention Center; For more information call 1-800-251-4444. -Pigeon Forge, TN.

Come visit the Great Smoky Mountains anytime of the year - this year is special with lots of activities to recognize the 75th anniversary of the Great Smoky Mountain National Park..

You will always find plenty to do in the National Park, Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, Townsend, Sevierville in TN and Bryson City, Slyva, Cherokee and Murphy on the NC side of the Smokies.. You will find lots of fantastic cabin rentals to choose from.. Some are even handicap accessible and pet friendly, check for large breed dog availability at some cabins - check Best Cabins By Owner..

See Cades Cove In A New Way! Cades Cove Heritage Tour - Smoky Mountains-TN

If you have ever visited Cades Cove in the Smoky Mountains of Tennessee just outside of Townsend, then you know traffic can be frustrating at times !

With gorgeous mountain scenery on every side, the line of tail lights in front of you might test your patience. Weekends and holidays in the Cove can be very busy with traffic abounding but now there's a solution....

You can enjoy beautiful Cades Cove in a new way. This special Cades Cove Heritage tour will be stress free! You can leave the driving to them!! Have the entire family together, learn as you go, enjoy the wildlife, scenery, and history of Cades Cove without touching the gas pedal.. Take your camera for lots of Smoky Mountain photo ops !

You can even help the enviornment, less pollution - which is a good thing.. For a fun and educational trip led by a knowledgeable guide in a comfortable, fuel efficient 19 passenger van, take the Cades Cove Heritage Tour, departing from the CCHT Depot in Townsend at various times.

The pricing is reasonable - Adults $13, Children $8, Seniors $10

To make reservations or more info, call 865-448-8838 or email Alex Roche: alex.gsmhc@cadescoveheritagtours.org

Cades Cove Heritage Tours is a private non-profit that seeks to provide a superior visitor experience, protect the natural and cultural resource of Cades Cove, and help alleviate overcrowding, traffic and pollution in the Cove. The tours are made possible by community partners, the Great Smoky Mountains Heritage Center, Smoky Mountain Convention & Visitors Bureau, and the National Parks Conservation Association.

Pigeon Forge 2009 Calendar of Events

Check out the Pigeon Forge Calendar of Events for 2009! Plan your Smoky Mountain getaway at a beautiful cabin rental now before your dates are taken..

See The Guide to the Best"By-Owner"Vacation Rentals-Smoky Mtns of Tenn & NC . Some Cabins are even Pet Friendly !


Pigeon Forge 2009 Events
1/13/2009
3rd Annual AppalachiaFest
Country Tonite Theatre; For tickets: 1-800-792-4308; For more information call (865) 429-7350 or visit My Pigeon Forge Music

2/5/2009
Storytelling Evening with Ed Stivender
Pottery House Café; For more information call (865) 429-7350

2/19/2009-2/22/2009
9th Annual Saddle Up!
Country Tonite Theatre; For more information (865) 429-7350 or visit My Pigeon Forge Saddle Up!

2/19/2009-2/20/2009
Tennessee Shindig presents the 4th Annual Western Jamboree
Cowboys & Indians.”– Tennessee Shindig; For tickets and more information call 1-888-908-3327

2/19/2009
Cowboy Symphony
Country Tonite Theatre; For more information call (865) 429-7350 or visit www.mypigeonforge.com/saddleup

3/5/2009-3/7/2009
Winter Carnival of Magic
Tonite Theatre; For more Information call 1-800-792-4308

3/7/2009-3/8/2009
East TN Children’s Hospital-Cutest Little Baby Face
Belz Outlets; For more information call (865) 453-7316

3/9/2009-3/15/2009
North American Country Music Awards
Country Tonite Theatre; For more information call 1-800-792-4308

3/11/2009-3/15/2009
15th Annual “A Mountain Quiltfest™
Music Road Hotel & Convention Center; For more information call (865) 429-7350 or visit Mountain Quiltfest

3/16/2009-3/22/2009
Southern Gospel Music Fanfare
Smoky Mountain Convention Center; For more information call (205) 662-4826

3/28/2009-4/27/2009
Dollywood’s Festival of Nations
(Closed Tuesdays & Easter Sunday); 1-800-DOLLYWOOD

4/4/2009
Belz Outlets Annual Easter Egg Hunt
Belz Outlets; For More information call (865) 453-7316

4/4/2009
Chuckwagon Gang & Friends
Smoky Mountain Convention Center; For more information call 1-888-319-1021

4/4/2009
Easter Egg Hunt & Breakfast with the Easter Bunny
Pigeon Forge Community Ctr; breakfast at 8:00 A.M. Egg Hunt at 10:00 A.M. 865-429-7373

4/16/2009-4/19/2009
Belz OutletsTruckload Sale
Belz Outlets; For more information call (865) 453-7316

4/16/2009-4/19/2009
Grand Spring Rod Run
Grand Resort Hotel & Convention Center; For more information call 1-800-251-4444

4/24/2009-4/26/2009
Gold Wings GRHCC; For more information call 1-800-251-4444

5/1/2009-5/2/2009
Relay for Life Patriot Park; 2:00 p.m. on May 1st to 2:00 p.m. on May 2nd

5/2/2009
Shrine FunFest Parade Public Welcome; 9:00 a.m. on the Parkway

5/8/2009
24th Annual Dolly Parade 6 p.m.; (865) 453-8574, 1-800-251-9100

5/15/2009-5/17/2009
Chevy Classics Roundup – 1955, 1956, 1957 Chevy Classics Show
(865) 984-3758; Inn at Christmas Place, 1-888-465-9644

6/4/2009-6/6/2009
18th Annual Smoky Mountains Storytelling Festival™
Belle Island Village; For more information call (865) 429-7350

6/5/2009-6/6/2009
Pontiacs in Pigeon Forge Classic Car Show
Music Road Hotel & Convention Center; For more information call (865) 379-9595

6/5/2009-6/26/2009
3rd Annual Smoky Mountain Music & Heritage Series
6:30 P.M. – Old Mill Square – Free Admission – Info 865-428-0771 or visit us on the web at www.oldmillsquare.com

6/12/2009-8/2/2009
Dollywood’s KidsFest™
For more information call 1-800-DOLLYWOOD

6/13/2009
Smith Family Theater Great Smoky Mountains 75th Anniversary Benefit Show
Smith Family Theater; For more information and show times call 1-866-399-8100

7/3/2009
3rd Annual Smoky Mountain Music & Heritage Series
6:30 P.M. – Old Mill Square – Free Admission – For information call (865) 428-0771 or visit us on the web at www.oldmillsquare.com

7/4/2009
19th Annual Patriot Festival
Patriot Park-Pigeon Forge; For more information call (865) 429-7350

7/12/2009-7/15/2009
KIDABRA! The Association of Family & Kidshow Performers Annual Convention
Music Road Hotel & Convention Center; Registration required; Grand Finale Public Show, August 15th at 8:00 p.m.; For more information call (336) 492-7870

7/20/2009-7/26/2009
SEAA Girls Fast Pitch World Series
City Park; For more Information call (865) 717-4932 or visit www.seaayouth.com

Find the perfect vacation cabin rental for you in the Smoky Mountains of TN, cabins located in Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, Sevierville, Wears, Valley, Townsend TN and Bryson City, Cherokee and Sylva on the NC side of the Smokies. You will find fantastic honeymoon cabins, large family cabins, pet friendly cabins and much more !! Check out Best Cabins By Owner !