Family Fun in the Smokies
If you think the Smoky Mountains area is one of the best vacation spots in the US, you’re definitely not alone! In October 2014, 1.3 million people visited the National Park. There is so much to see and do each and everyday throughout Sevier County—covering Sevierville, Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg—but each month offers its own special events and local fun stuff that you don’t want to miss. If you prefer to keep more of the fun all to yourself, consider planning to take your vacation in Pigeon Forge this May. It’s early in the season and the crowds haven’t arrived yet, but the month is still filled with things to do that your family will love!
May Festivals and Events
Photo Credit: Local 8 Knoxville
1: 2015 Dolly Parade – 30th Annual Dolly’s Homecoming Parade
Dolly Parton is front and center for this grand parade that celebrates the girl who grew up and blossomed in the Smokies. This is the largest parade in Pigeon Forge and brings local businesses, community organizations and bands together to celebrate the spring season. In the past, Dolly has made appearances at Dollywood on Friday prior to Saturday’s parade! Parade begins near light # 7 on the Pigeon Forge Parkway at approximately 6 p.m. and continues through to light #3. Arrive early for the best spot!
3-9: Yellow Mustang Registry
Do you own or love yellow Ford Mustangs? Come meet other owners and fans near LeConte Center / Island in Pigeon Forge to view over 70 mustangs dating back to the 1960’s. Includes cruises and socializing.
9: Shrine Funfest Parade
It is fun with a purpose – supporting the important mission of Shriners Hospitals for Children®! Nothing is more entertaining than watching the antics of grown men riding teeny-tiny vehichles down the Parkway in Pigeon Forge. Come out for a great time and lots of smiles! Parade begins at 9 a.m.
Shriners Hospitals for Children has a mission to:
1. Provide the highest quality care to children with neuromusculoskeletal conditions, burn injuries and other special healthcare needs within a compassionate, family-centered and collaborative care environment.
2. Provide for the education of physicians and other healthcare professionals.
3. Conduct research to discover new knowledge that improves the quality of care and quality of life of children and families.
10: Happy Mother’s Day
Today we continue the tradition celebrating “the person who has done more for you than anyone in the world.” To our own Moms and every woman who has nurtured children of her own or others, we honor and appreciate you!!
Downtown Gatlinburg Event
14: Annual Gatlinburg Beans ‘n Cornbread Blast
The Parkway in downtown Gatlinburg will be filled with kettles of soup beans and skillets of cornbread for all to taste and tout the South’s famous, favorite meal. Vendors will be competing for your vote so purchase a spoon and get to eatin’! Enjoy this fun, festive atmosphere and live music beginning at 4 p.m.
22: Hillside Winery “Wine on the Lawn”
Free summer event series offering wine tastings, live music and fun for the entire family at Hillside Winery in Sevierville TN.
23-June 7: Dollywood Barbeque & Bluegrass Festival
Sixteen-day music festival at Dollywood Theme Park featuring over 250 free concerts performed by top Bluegrass bands and performers and great southern BBQ! Visit Market Square for delicious pork or chicken with “sweet and tangy” or “smokin’ hot” barbecue choices. Park at Patriot Park or right here in the Convention Center parking lot and ride the trolley!
29-30: Sevier County Relay for Life
“Run Cancer Out of Town” at the 5K Glow Run that starts at 9 p.m. at Patriot Park in Pigeon Forge, then head back to the park at 10 a.m. for the Relay for Life opening ceremony. Events take place through 8:45 p.m. to support American Cancer Society.
Any of these events a “must see” for you? Click here to find your cabin in Pigeon Forge and have a great Smoky Mountain getaway!
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