Many believe that spring is the most beautiful time of the year in the Great Smoky Mountains, and I must say, I agree. For those of you who have given your hearts to the changing leaves of fall and the brisk autumn air, consider the following wonderful intricacies of spring, and know that you can have more than one love when it comes to the Great Smoky Mountains.
As spring arrives in the Smoky Mountains, waterfalls once again rush onto rocks below, daffodils and pansies come out of hiding, and birds begin singing their sweet songs. Bare, woody mountainsides morph into lush, green vistas, and the wildlife (the bears, deer and more) begin stretching and emerging from their winter hideaways.
There is no doubt that spring is a really magical time of the year in the Smoky Mountains, so it is no surprise that the city of Gatlinburg celebrates the season in a big way. Beginning in early March and ending the first week of June, SpringFest is a 3 month string of events and festivals hosted by local merchants and the Gatlinburg Department of Tourism. Much as they do during Christmas, the streets of Gatlinburg transform, but this time, with flowers. Tulips, mandevillas, lantanas, and wave petunias are just a few of the beautiful blooms you’ll see cascading over baskets along the streets, and many days you will find live entertainment as you stroll the Parkway. Below are a few things that will be going on during SpringFest.
- Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Easter Show – Gatlinburg Convention Center, April 4th -7th
- Easter Sunrise Service – Ober Gatlinburg, April 8th at 6:30 am
- Gatlinburg’s Ribfest & Wings – April 26th, downtown Gatlinburg
- Spring Wildflower Pilgrimage – Great Smoky Mountains National Park, April 24th – 28th
Whether you’re coming to Gatlinburg for a special event, or you just can’t stay away for too long, spring is certainly an incredible time to visit the Great Smoky Mountains.