Gatlinburg Tn
If you’ve already started planning a magical getaway to Gatlinburg, TN, then you’ve more than likely read or heard one of the following: “Don’t go in July or October! That’s when all the tourists are there!” or “You must go in July or October! That’s when all the tourists are there!” Depending on what kind of a vacation you want this to be, Gatlinburg in July and October may or may not be what you’re looking for. Let’s find out why.Gatlinburg, TN in July
Starting with the obvious, July is one of the busiest months for tourism worldwide and you'll have to plan ahead if you want to look into staying in Gatlinburg hotels. The kids are out of school, the sun (for the most part) is shining and people in colder climates have just thawed out from winter and spring. So July means vacation to many people. Gatlinburg, TN, is a vacation destination, so…well, you get the point.
Gatlinburg takes advantage of this and offers up a wide assortment of July activities for its guests. But perhaps the July day that takes the cake when it comes to activities is the Fourth. The Fourth of July is a big deal in Gatlinburg, and the festivities start early. Gatlinburg, TN, is home to the nation’s first (as in first of the day) Fourth of July Parade, which kicks off at midnight. For over 30 years, this parade has entertained Gatlinburg visitors with illuminated floats and grand, vibrant helium balloons that celebrate the classic American holiday.
The Fourth continues with the Annual River Raft Regatta, where contestants maneuver unmanned “floatable objects” in the Little Pigeon River. Starting at noon, this activity is always good for a few good laughs and memories. Then in the evening, of course, there’s the spectacular Fourth of July Fireworks Finale.
Later in the month, the July version of the Gatlinburg Craftsmen’s Fair is held at the Gatlinburg Convention Center, where you can get your hands on locale arts and crafts, and see exactly how the art is produced.
Gatlinburg, TN in October
The Smoky Mountain Harvest Festival kicks off in mid-September and continues through all of October. Local artisans and craftsmen take advantage of the year’s harvest and the vibrant autumn colors to create storefronts and displays that add color and character to the streets of Gatlinburg, TN. The Great Smoky Arts and Crafts Community, the largest group of independent artisans in North America, is responsible for the displays, workshops and activities that occur throughout October.
With live country and bluegrass music in the background, the Gatlinburg Craftsmen’s Fair in October is the longer version of the fair in July. Usually the last three weeks of the month, the fair lets you peek into the lives of the craftsmen and see exactly how they do what they do. With over 200 booths with artwork from artisans from all over the country, bringing an empty suitcase for those treasures that you are sure to find is a must.
So no matter what time of year you decide to plan your Gatlinburg vacation, there’s always something exciting to experience. So break out the calendar, check out your dates and be condiment in the fact that Gatlinburg offers plenty of entertainment options on a year round basis.
