If it feels like there’s always something new and exciting happening in the Great Smokies — well, that’s because there is. Read on for a guide to the best festivals, sporting competitions, and other events you can look forward to in 2020.
Smoky Mountain Winterfest — January and February
Smoky Mountain Winterfest is the region’s winter light show, offering arts and crafts, shows, and more than 15 million glittering lights.
King of the Mountain — January
The region’s top technical and freestyle skiers compete during the annual “King of the Mountain” event at Ober Gatlinburg resort.
A Mountain Quiltfest — March
The 26th annual A Mountain Quiltfest brings regional quilters together for five days of classes, demonstrations, and shows.
Smoky Mountain Trout Tournament — April
Fishermen of all levels face off to catch trout from the Little Pigeon River.
Spring Wildflower Pilgrimage — April
The Spring Wildflower Pilgrimage invites locals and visitors to embark on bird-watching tours, insect walks, and photography workshops led by knowledgeable guides and instructors.
Dolly Homecoming Parade — May
Thousands of locals line up to welcome Dolly Parton back to town at the Dolly Homecoming Parade, featuring floats, marching bands, and local entertainers.
Gatlinburg Beans and Cornbread Festival — May
Heaping platters of the namesake dishes are served at the Gatlinburg Beans and Cornbread Festival, which is considered an “ode to the culinary past of Appalachia.”
Smoky Mountain Tunes and Tales — June, July, August
Musicians, actors, and storytellers take over downtown Gatlinburg during the summer Smoky Mountain Tunes and Tales event.
Summer Concert Series — June, July, August
As a part of the Summer Concert Series, bluegrass, rock, and country musicians perform at venues such as Ole Smoky and Sugarlands.
First Independence Day Parade in the Nation — July
Gatlinburg kicks off the Fourth of July right as the clock strikes midnight, with floats, bands, and military motorcades.
Old Mill Heritage Day — September
The Old Mill Heritage Day celebration sees Old Mill Square hosting interactive events and activities, such as square dances, sorghum-making demonstrations, and bluegrass performances.
Chalkfest at the Island — October
During the annual Chalkfest event, The Island shopping and entertainment complex transforms into a larger-than-life canvas for creative murals in chalk.
Dollywood Harvest Festival — October
The Dollywood Harvest Festival boasts a pumpkin patch, a jack-o’-lantern spectacular, and demonstrations by local artisans and musicians.
Titanic Thanksgiving Fireworks — November
The Titanic Museum rings in the holiday season with a festive fireworks show on the evening before Thanksgiving.
Dollywood Smoky Mountain Christmas Festival — December
Dollywood’s Christmas celebration includes gospel shows, musical performances inspired by “It’s a Wonderful Life,” and a nightly parade.
