Spring is finally upon us. The flowers are blooming, the birds are chirping, and the Smoky Mountains are as beautiful as ever. While most of our spring breakers have already come and gone, there’s still plenty to do in Gatlinburg during the month of May. It’s a great time to come to Gatlinburg because it’s just before the big summer crowds and the hot summer heat arrive. Plus, there are lots of fun activities to keep you entertained.
We’ve put together a brief list of some of the top events in Gatlinburg during the month of May. Of course, there’s far more going on in Gatlinburg than we can include but we figured this would give you a great start on planning your trip to Gatlinburg in May.
Springfest in Gatlinburg – going on now through June 6th. A fine arts festival, a barbecue, a hiking event, live entertainment on the parkway, and beautiful flowers are just some of the features of this three month long spring celebration. Need more info? Just call call 800-568-4748.
Wildflower Pilgrimage – April 26-May1. This is the flower lover’s dream! Experts in Botany and the Apalachian wildlife authorities have paired up to provide classes for every level of plant lover, from the beginner garderner to the longtime botanist. Guided hikes and tours in the Smoky Mountains are the main classrooms and students will get access to the many flora and fauna that the Smoky Mountains produce. If you need more information simply call 865-436-7318.
Cinco De Mayo in Gatlinburg – May 5th. Gatlinburg’s first time celebrating the Mexican holiday. Ripley’s Aquarium and No Way Jose’s have teamed with the Chamber of Commerce and other Gatlinburg businesses to host a celebration complete with food, music, costumes, crafts and educational displays. More information can be obtained by the Gatlinburg Chamber of commerce.
Saw it in the Smokies – May 6-8. We know, it’s kind of a weird event to hold around Mother’s Day, but that’s just what we’ve done. Reagan Resorts is holding their first chainsaw competition in Gatlinburg that will feature 15 national champion chainsawers. There will also be music, and prize drawings. The event will be held at the Four Seasons Motor Lodge in Gatlinburg from 10 in the morning till 5 at night. More info can be obtained at (865) 436-5607.
Gatlinburg Fine Arts Festival – May 14-15. The 7th annual fine arts festival in Gatlinburg will feature top artists competing for $10,000 in prizes. Entrance into the festival is free. Visitors will get to view and purchase beautiful pieces of craftsmanship. They can also attend a special meet and greet party for $50 which will be returned to them in the form of a voucher redeemable through the purchase of an art piece the next day at the festival. The event helps fund Arrowmont School of Arts & Crafts, the Sevier County Arts Council and the Gatlinburg Boys & Girls Club art program. The Gatlinburg Chamber can be reached for additional information.
Gatlinburg Farmer’s Market – May 21-October 15. Are you a fan of fresh produce? Well the locals come together every year to provide Gatlinburg visitors access to our local farmer’s market. The market in Gatlinburg can be found in the parking lot of Alamo Steakhouse on Saturday mornings from 8:30 to 11:30. Don’t miss it! More information can be found at Gatlinburgfarmersmarket.com.
Family Fest – May 27-29. If you’re a fan of Bill Gaither then you’re probably a fan of the whole Gaither family. During May the Gaithers come to the Gatlinburg Convention Center to put on three music shows/concerts. The event will also feature guest speakers including Andy Andrews and Ken Davis.