Gatlinburg’s SpringFest is an annual three month celebration that begins in early March. As the snow melts and flowers and wildlife begin to reemerge, Gatlinburg becomes one of the most beautiful places in the country. The celebration of Spring can be seen all throughout Gatlinburg this time of year – from the overflow of blooming flowers to live entertainment on the streets of downtown. With countless events, festivals, and performances you can count on Gatlinburg to tell you when Spring has sprung!
Gatlinburg’s SpringFest kicks off with the Gatlinburg Easter Arts & Crafts Show. Taking place at the Gatlinburg Convention Center, this event begins April 20th and lasts until April 23rd. Members of the Gatlinburg Arts & Crafts Community come together to display their unique, handcrafted gifts and works of art. You can meet with artists and craftsmen as you browse through their treasured items and find items to take home with you. Admission is free, so make sure you plan to attend!
The Mountain Man Memorial March is a time honored tradition that pays tribute to all of our men and women in uniform. The event started when 1st Lt. Frank Walkup, a University of Tennessee-Knoxville alumnus, was killed in the line of duty in Iraq in 2007. Beginning at 9A.M. on April 16th, the 26.2 mile course covers everything from highways to mountain trails. Entrants can register in one of three categories: Military Heavy, Military Light and Civilian. Come walk a mile in our military’s boots as you “support the future and honor the past.”
On Easter morning, April 24th, Ober Gatlinburg holds an Easter Morning Sunrise Service. A local tradition and popular tourist favorite, this year marks the 13th ceremony of the sunrise service. Lead by local pastors from the Gatlinburg Ministerial Association, this mountain top service is surely a breathtaking experience. Tram rides to the mountain top begin at 5:45A.M., and the service begins at 6:30. Free parking is also available for those guests who prefer to drive. After the service, visit the Ober Gatlinburg Restaurant for a delicious breakfast buffet!
The Spring Wildflower Pilgrimage is another treasured Gatlinburg event. This five day event (April 26th – May 1st) offers you 141 chances to get in touch with nature. Through guided walks and indoor presentations, tourists and locals alike can learn about the beautiful wildflowers and fauna of the Smoky Mountains. Most walks and hikes take place in the Great Smoky Mountain National Park, while other indoor events are held at the Sugarland Visitor Center. To get in touch with your wild side, this is an event you will want to take advantage of!
If you have a Bar-B-Q lover in your family, plan your Gatlinburg vacation for April 28th! Gatlinburg Ribfest & Wings is a street-fair style, fun for the whole family event! For the price of admission, you and your family can enjoy an unlimited sampling of Gatlinburg’s best ribs and wings. Beginning on the Parkway from 5-8P.M., you and your family can sample countless types of ribs and wings – then vote on your favorite and decide the “People’s Choice Award!”