The Townsend Grains, Grits & Spirits Festival returns November 7, 2026 at the Townsend Visitors Center — a one-day celebration of the grain-based food, spirits, and music traditions that have defined Appalachian culture for centuries. Stone-ground grits, Tennessee whiskey tastings, local moonshine, craft beer, and live mountain music in the peaceful side of the Smokies. Here's everything you need to plan your visit.
Smoky Mountain Tunes & Tales transforms downtown Gatlinburg into a living stage each summer evening, with more than 70 musicians, storytellers, cloggers, and costumed Appalachian characters spreading out along the Parkway from 6 to 10 p.m. nightly. The event is completely free, has been running since 2006, and begins each evening with a horse-drawn wagon arrival at the center of town. For 2027 the summer season runs late June through late July — here's everything you need to know to make the most of it.
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