Many people think of Gatlinburg and the Great Smoky Mountains and think of honeymoons, weddings, church retreats, and family reunions. But Gatlinburg offers so many attractions, events, shops, restaurants, and outdoor activities, it appeals to a much wider crowd. Getting away with family is great, but sometimes you just need some quality time with your friends. At least for me, it's gotten harder over the years to get friends together. After graduating from high school and college, many of us moved in different directions, began careers, and started families. Now spread across the country, we usually only get together once

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If you’re heading to the Smokies this summer, stay up-to-date with what’s going on in Gatlinburg. From road closures and bear safety to new events, read about the latest news for the area. You can also follow our blog where we keep you informed of upcoming events and give you tips for travel, booking cabins, exploring the area, and more. Here’s what’s happening in Gatlinburg right now! Black Bear Warning Problems with black bears in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park are few and far between, but it’s important to know black bear safety. On occasion, the park issues warnings

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All summer long, Gatlinburg has exciting events and adventures in store for its visitors. But on July 4, things get a lot more fun as you take part in special celebrations you’ll only find in the Smokies. From the first Independence Day Parade in the Nation to the River Raft Regatta, Gatlinburg waves the red, white, and blue in a big way for a Fourth of July to remember! First Independence Day Parade in the Nation Kicking off the Independence Day celebration is the 40th-annual first parade in the nation! The parade begins at the stroke of midnight on July

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2015 Smoky Mountain Tunes and Tales After a 1,000-plus signature petition, the 10th annual Smoky Mountain Tunes & Tales is back on in the city of Gatlinburg! The Gatlinburg City Commission had thought to cancel this event for 2015, but its popularity in years past with locals and visitors alike was able to override their decision. And that’s great news if you’re planning to visit the Smokies this summer! What Is It? Smoky Mountain Tunes & Tales is a popular street performance held in downtown Gatlinburg. The summer-long event will begin June 12, 2015, and will continue daily until August

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Did you know that according to the CDC, nearly 80 percent of adult Americans don’t get the recommended amount of exercise each week? They recommend at least 2.5 hours of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise each week—a goal you can easily achieve by spending a few hours hiking in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park! In fact, hiking in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is one of the best ways to meet your exercise goals, because you not only get the aerobic exercise of walking the trails, but you also get to enjoy the splendor of the Smokies at the same

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