The Time for Fall Festivals is Here!

The Labor Day holiday has come and gone. Even though the thermometer says otherwise, autumn is just around the corner and the time to start planning to get out and enjoy the harvest is now. There are more than enough diverse opportunities to get out and enjoy the season that many call their favorite time of year. East Tennessee and the Great Smoky Mountain region provides the perfect backdrop to grab a pumpkin spice latte and a favorite flannel and get out to have some fall fun. From picturesque small town charm to spooky October nights, there is something for everyone.

Smoky Mountain Elk Festival is September 13-14. The new festival located in Maggie Valley celebrates the local elk herds in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Elk Fest will coincide with the beginning of the fall elk rut. For more information click here.

Staff Photo, Angie Stanley

The 20th Annual Dumplin Valley Bluegrass Festival is September 19-21 at Dumplin Valley Farm RV Park. The three day festival has about 15 local and national acts, including bluegrass legend Ronda Vincent. For more information check out their website at www.dumplinvalley-bluegrass.com .

The Dandridge Scots-Irish Festival is September 28. The all day event invites people in to beautiful Downtown Dandridge to enjoy Pipe and drum bands, vendors, Scots-Irish traditions and a parade. Live music will also be performed throughout the day. For more information about the event, go to www.scotsirishfestival.com .

Knoxville Pipe and Drum
Staff Photo by Jeff Depew

The Townsend Heritage and Old Timers Festival on September 27 and 28 brings folks over to the quiet side of the Smokies with arts, crafts, along with traditional mountain and bluegrass music. Visit the Blount County Tourism Page for more information.

Staff photo, Angie Stanley

The Pigeon Forge Rotary Club Crafts Festival will be running most of the fall from September 28 through October 26 at Patriot Park. Visitors will have the opportunity to see and purchase handmade items from some of the area’s talented artists and crafters. Admission is free, however, a freewill donation will be distributed to local and area charities.

The National Storytelling Festival in Jonesborough draws in world renowned storytellers and imaginations of all ages. This year’s event will be held October 4-6 in Downtown Jonesborough. Special events this year will include a Midnight Cabaret, Ghost Story Concerts, and a Story Slam. Click here for more information.

The Robert Tino Smoky Mountain Homecoming will be October 4-6 and has been a regional favorite for many years. This event has something for people of all ages, including kids activities, antique tent, music, food, and mule pulled wagon rides. Visit the Robert Tino Gallery website for more information.

Staff Photo, Angie Stanley

The Newport Harvest street festival on Saturday October 5 happens in the streets of Downtown Newport. The festival, that’s been happening for 33 years, will have food vendors, arts and crafts, and music all day. There will also be a gospel music concert on the following Sunday. Check out the Newport Chamber website for more information.

The Wears Valley Fall Fest on October 18-20 offers three full days of family fun.  Families will enjoy traditional elements such as pumpkins, crafts, incredible southern food and entertainment. More information is available on their website.

Staff Photo, Angie Stanley

The Lakeside of the Smokies Balloon Fest is a new event to our area. The event, to be held in White Pine will feature vendors from throughout the area, music, and of course hot air balloons. The event kicks off Saturday October 26 and runs through Sunday. More information is available at their website.

These events are just a handful of the multitude of festivities happening through the fall in the region. Keep checking out the events section on the front page of the Jefferson County Post for more activities that are sure to be added. Get out and enjoy the coziness of the fall season!!

Source: Angie Stanley, Jefferson County Post Staff Writer