The Best Events In The Smokies For May
There’s nothing quite like a cozy cabin getaway in November. The air is crisp, the trees are bursting with color, and the Smoky Mountains make the perfect backdrop for a relaxing retreat. Whether you’re planning a romantic weekend or a quiet escape with friends, here’s how to make the most of your cozy cabin stay this fall.
1. Settle In and Get Cozy
Start by creating that classic cabin atmosphere. Light a fire in the fireplace, curl up with a blanket, and enjoy a good book or conversation by the glow. Make use of the cabin’s amenities, play a round of pool or board games, watch a movie on the big screen, or soak in the private hot tub while taking in the cool autumn air. With a fully equipped kitchen and outdoor grill, you can cook up a hearty dinner and enjoy your meal on the deck surrounded by the beauty of fall.
2. Explore the Great Outdoors
When you’re ready to venture outside, take advantage of the season’s stunning scenery. Drive along scenic routes like Cades Cove Loop Road or the Blue Ridge Parkway for breathtaking views of fall foliage. Go for a hike in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, just start early to avoid crowds. You can also visit a local pumpkin patch, explore Gatlinburg’s charming downtown, or stop by the Smoky Mountain Harvest Festival for crafts and seasonal fun.
3. Plan Ahead for a Perfect Trip
November is a busy month in the Smokies, so book your cabin and activities early. For a quieter experience, try visiting midweek instead of the weekend. And don’t forget to plan your meals and stock up on groceries before you arrive so you can focus on relaxing and enjoying your autumn escape.
If you're ready to take the plunge or are just interested in where you should stay this fall click here for the best autumn cabins around.
Dolly Homecoming Parade
May 5th, 2017
Probably one of the biggest moments of Springfest in Pigeon Forge is the Dolly Homecoming Parade. If the name doesn't clue you in enough, it is so titled because Dolly Parton herself returns to town to act as Grand Marshal for the parade! All the action and marching takes place on the main parkway in downtown Pigeon Forge between traffic light #6 (Pine Mountain Road where Shoney's and Kinkaku are) to traffic light #3 (Wears Valley Road where Walden's Landing is). Traffic on the road shuts down to allow the parade through and visitors can see the parade from the sidewalk or along the green "islands" that separate out the parkway.
YES, you do get to see Dolly Parton in the flesh on her huge parade float but there are many, many more to see representing local businesses and others in our area. Beauty pageant queens, firemen, marching bands, high schools, middle schools, music theaters, comedy theaters, veteran soldiers and many more showcasing all the fun with music, characters, tiny little vehicles and even some scrolling performances along the way!
Parade begins at 6:00PM. See more on this event.
Gatlinburg Beans and Cornbread Festival
May 11th, 2017
Whoo-doggie, nothing says "The South" like an entire festival devoted to the Appalachian staple of beans and cornbread! This odd but highly pleasing event goes on the main downtown strip in Gatlinburg between traffic lights #6 and #8 (between Ripley's Aquarium and Ripley's Believe It or Not!). The event is sponsored by Bush's Baked Beans (the national brand is home here is nearby Newport, TN) and patrons can buy an "admission spoon" for $10.00 that gives them unlimited access to the best in baked beans and cornbread made by our finest area's restaurants. And, as always, there will be entertainment, kid's playthings and much more on hand.
The festival begins at 5:00PM and goes on to 8:00PM. See for more information.
Bloomin' BBQ & Bluegrass Festival
May 19th-20th, 2017
And speaking of food festivals this month, if you're not familiar with the Bloomin' BBQ & Bluegrass Festival in Sevierville, then we're happy to introduce you to the "piece de resistance" of the May food celebrations. This one actually takes place in downtown Sevierville around the big courthouse in the historic section of the city and it is two days of family fun, incredible BBQ and near round-the-clock music like you've never experienced before (unless, of course, you've already been to Bloomin' before!) On top of that, the alleys and sidewalks will fill with merchants selling arts, crafts, locally made foods, clothing and, of course, more that you can only see by attending the festival! Entry is free, you just pay for any food or items you want to acquire.
If that isn't a great way to celebrate the final third of Springfest in the Smokies, nothing is. Stay tuned for more articles on getting the most out of your upcoming getaway in the Smokies!
