Hosting dozens of family-friendly events in one of the most beautiful months in the Smokies, the cities of Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge offer tons of fun for people of all ages. Their community calendars are jam-packed with events celebrating food, music, the arts, service men and women, and local celebrities. But May isn’t just a great time to visit because of the events. The gorgeous weather is warm and sunny, introducing the new flowers, shrubs, and greenery on the trees. The streams and waterfalls have thawed, and the water begins to flow through the mountains again. The wildlife has started stirring, simply adding to the stunning scenery in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park!
If you’re in the Smokies this spring, spend a day picnicking, fishing, horseback riding, biking, taking scenic drives, or hiking in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Then check out the many fun events on the city calendars!
Gatlinburg Beans ‘n Cornbread Blast
May 14, 2015
Presented by Bush Brothers & Company, the City of Gatlinburg, and the Gatlinburg Convention & Visitors Bureau, the Gatlinburg Beans ‘n Cornbread Blast is a street festival held in downtown Gatlinburg. Along with the Cornhole Tournament, the festival will feature a beans and cornbread cook-off, Smoky Mountain music, plenty of beans and cornbread to taste, and lots of games for kids and adults! The Cornhole Tournament is $10 per team of two and 100% of the proceeds go towards the Sevier County Humane Society.
Memorial Day weekend in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge
May 22, 2015 – Monday, May 25, 2015
A time to commemorate those who have lost their lives in service to our country, Memorial Day is a beloved holiday in the Smokies. One of the area’s most popular Memorial Day weekend events is the Family Fest in the Smokies, held at the Gatilnburg Convention Center. The three-day music celebration features the performances of the Gaither Vocal Band, as well as a number of other artists. Memorial Day weekend will also feature many great sales, particularly at the Tanger Outlets in Pigeon Forge.
Dolly’s Homecoming Parade
May 1, 2015
The 30th Annual Dolly Homecoming Parade in Pigeon Forge will feature incredible floats, talented marching bands, horses, entertainment, and Dolly Parton as grand marshal! Years past have brought more than 50,000 visitors to the Parkway, and this year should be better than ever! The parade will begin around 6 p.m. starting at traffic light #6 and ending around traffic light #3. It’s free and open to the public, and it’s a great way to get out and enjoy the Smokies in May!
10th annual Smoky Mountain Tunes & Tales
April 2015 – August 2015
Featuring costumed performers and the music of the mountains, Smoky Mountain Tunes & Tales is the summer-long street performance that celebrates the culture, history, and music of the mountains. As you stroll the Parkway, watch cloggers, listen to storytellers and musicians, and soak up the scenery of the Smokies. The May weather is sure to be pleasant, and it will be a May event that the whole family can enjoy.
Gatlinburg Farmers Market
Held at 849 Glades Road each Saturday from 8:30 a.m. until 11:30 a.m., the Gatlinburg Farmers Market offers the best fresh produce and local goods from Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge. Pick up fresh coffee, baked goods, jams and jellies, honey, and health and wellness products. Browsing and shopping in the market – what a wonderful way to enjoy the fantastic May weather!