The Smoky Mountains region of Tennessee and North Carolina is a vibrant destination that attracts millions of visitors each year. In 2024 alone, The Great Smoky Mountains National Park welcomed approximately 12.2 million visitors, solidifying its status as the most visited national park in the United States.
Beyond its natural beauty, the area is renowned for its lively festivals and events that cater to a wide range of interests. From thrilling car shows and patriotic celebrations to cultural fairs and music festivals, there are more than enough activities to make your summer unforgettable.
This article highlights some of the most anticipated events in the Smoky Mountains for the summer of 2025, providing you with all the information you need to plan a memorable family getaway.
1. Dollywood Summer Celebration
The Smoky Mountains region comes alive each summer, offering visitors a plethora of festivals and events that celebrate its rich culture and natural beauty. A standout attraction is the Dollywood Summer Celebration, held at Dollywood Theme Park in Pigeon Forge. This annual event features extended park hours, allowing families to enjoy thrilling rides, live performances, and seasonal shows well into the evening. The highlight is the nightly fireworks display, which illuminates the sky and adds a festive touch to the summer nights.
The Dollywood Summer Celebration begins on the 14th of June and ends on the 3rd of August.
2. Patriot Festival in Pigeon Forge
Celebrate Independence Day at the annual Patriot Festival in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. Scheduled for Friday, July 4, 2025, this free event offers a day filled with live music, delicious food, and engaging activities for the whole family. Festivities begin at 2:00 PM at Patriot Park, with performances by artists such as Joe Nichols, Runaway June, and Whiskey Icarus. The evening culminates in a spectacular fireworks display, providing a memorable conclusion to the celebration.
Event Details:
- Date & Time: July 4, 2025, from 2:00 PM to 10:00 PM
- Location: Patriot Park, Pigeon Forge, TN
- Admission: Free and open to the public
- Activities: Live music performances, food vendors, family-friendly games
- Fireworks: Begin at approximately 9:45 PM
Attendees are encouraged to bring lawn chairs and blankets for seating. Please note that umbrellas, tents, and coolers are not permitted. A variety of food options will be available for purchase, including hot dogs, tacos, pizza, funnel cakes, and lemonade. Free parking is provided at the Teaster Lane Municipal parking lot, with a shuttle operating every 20 minutes between the lot and the festival site.
3. Gatlinburg's Independence Day Celebrations
Gatlinburg, Tennessee, offers a vibrant lineup of events each summer, especially during the Independence Day period. In 2025, visitors can look forward to several exciting festivities that highlight the city's rich heritage and community spirit.
Annual 4th of July Midnight Parade
Gatlinburg kicks off its Independence Day celebrations with the Annual 4th of July Midnight Parade, beginning at 12:01 AM on July 4, 2025. This unique parade features illuminated floats, marching bands, and larger-than-life balloons.
4th of July Drone Show & Fireworks Finale
Later that evening, the festivities continue with a combined drone show and fireworks display. The drone show starts at approximately 9:50 PM, showcasing 13 to 18 images over a 10-minute span, followed by fireworks at 10:00 PM. This synchronized display offers a modern twist to traditional Independence Day celebrations.
Smoky Mountain Tunes & Tales
From June 27 to July 26, 2025, Smoky Mountain Tunes & Tales brings the streets of Gatlinburg alive each evening from 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM. This summer-long street performance festival features costumed musical performers, dancers, and storytellers portraying characters from as far back as the 1800s, offering visitors a glimpse into the region's rich cultural heritage.
4. Gatlinburg Craftsmen's Fair
Experience the rich artistry of the Smoky Mountains at the Gatlinburg Craftsmen's Fair, an annual event that attracts artisans and visitors from across the nation. Scheduled for July 11–20, 2025, this fair offers a unique opportunity to explore a wide array of handcrafted goods.
Event Details:
- Dates & Time: July 11–20, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily
- Location: Gatlinburg Convention Center, Gatlinburg, TN
- Admission: $10 for adults; children 17 and under receive free admission with a paid adult
Features:
- Over 180 exhibitors showcasing diverse crafts
- Live country and bluegrass music performances at 12:00 PM and 3:00 PM daily
This fair provides a wonderful opportunity to appreciate and purchase unique artworks while enjoying live entertainment.
5. Smoky Mountain Bigfoot Conference
Delve into the mysteries of the Smoky Mountains at the Smoky Mountain Bigfoot Conference, an event that brings together enthusiasts and experts to explore the legend of Bigfoot. The conference is set for July 26, 2025, offering a full day of engaging activities.
Event Details:
- Date & Time: July 26, 2025, from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM
- Location: Gatlinburg Convention Center, Gatlinburg, TN
- Admission: General admission tickets start at $30
Features:
- Presentations by renowned Bigfoot researchers and speakers
- A vendor hall with merchandise related to Bigfoot and cryptozoology
- Opportunities to connect with fellow enthusiasts and experts
Whether you're a skeptic or a believer, this conference offers a captivating experience that adds a unique twist to the summer festivities in the Smoky Mountains.
6. Spring Rod Run
Automotive enthusiasts flock to Pigeon Forge each spring for the Spring Rod Run, a premier car show that showcases a wide array of classic and custom vehicles. In 2025, this three-day event is scheduled from April 10 to April 12 at the LeConte Center.
Event Highlights:
- Dates & Time: April 10–12, 2025; specific event hours to be announced
- Location: LeConte Center, Pigeon Forge, TN
- Admission: Varies by package; details available on the official website
Features:
- Hundreds of show cars on display
- An extensive swap meet with automotive parts and accessories
- Car corral for buying and selling vehicles
- Top 25 awards and Ultimate 5 awards
- $8,000 cash giveaway
This event offers a unique opportunity to connect with fellow car enthusiasts, explore a vast selection of vehicles, and participate in various activities celebrating automotive culture.
7. Ponies in the Smokies
For fans of the Ford Mustang, Ponies in the Smokies is a must-attend event. Scheduled for March 24 to March 29, 2025, this six-day celebration brings together Mustang lovers from across the country.
Event Highlights:
- Dates & Time: March 24–29, 2025; daily activities from morning to evening
- Location: LeConte Center, Pigeon Forge, TN
- Admission: Varies by event; details available on the official website
Features:
- 108,000 square feet of indoor vendor space
- Special displays highlighting Mustang history and culture
- Driving experiences at Newport Speedway
- Cruise-ins and social gatherings
- Autocross and dyno competitions
Attendees can expect a week filled with activities that celebrate the legacy of the Ford Mustang, all set against the backdrop of the scenic Smoky Mountains.
Both the Spring Rod Run and Ponies in the Smokies events provide immersive experiences for automotive enthusiasts, offering opportunities to showcase vehicles, participate in competitions, and connect with a community that shares a passion for cars.
8. Chevys in the Smokies
Chevrolet enthusiasts are in for a treat with the Chevys in the Smokies event, scheduled for March 13–15, 2025, at the LeConte Center in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. This three-day celebration brings together classic car lovers from all over to showcase and admire a variety of Chevrolet models.
Event Highlights:
- Dates & Time: March 13–15, 2025; specific event hours to be announced
- Location: LeConte Center, Pigeon Forge, TN
- Admission: $20 per day; children 12 and under receive free admission
Features:
- A vast display of Chevrolet vehicles
- An extensive swap meet for automotive parts and accessories
- Sales corral for buying and selling vehicles
- Park 'n Show with awards ceremony
- A cruise on the Tail of the Dragon on Friday afternoon
9. Fall Rod Run
The Fall Rod Run is a highlight for car enthusiasts, taking place from September 11–13, 2025, at the LeConte Center in Pigeon Forge. This three-day event features a variety of activities that will thrill car lovers.
Event Highlights:
- Dates & Time: September 11–13, 2025; specific event hours to be announced
- Location: LeConte Center, Pigeon Forge, TN
- Admission: Details to be announced; check the official website for updates
Features:
- Over 500 show cars on display
- A massive automotive swap meet
- Car corral for buying and selling vehicles
- Top 25 Awards and Ultimate 7 Awards
- A $10,000 cash giveaway
- Celebrity guest appearances
- Free spectator parking
10. Jeep Invasion
Jeep enthusiasts are invited to the 13th Annual Great Smoky Mountain Jeep® Club Invasion, scheduled for August 21–23, 2025, at the LeConte Center in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. This event unites Jeep owners and fans for three days of exhibitions, vendor showcases, and community camaraderie.
Event Details:
- Dates & Time: August 21–23, 2025; 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM daily
- Location: LeConte Center, 2986 Teaster Lane, Pigeon Forge, TN
- Admission: Available at admission booths inside and outside the LeConte Center; pricing details to be announced
Features:
- Indoor and outdoor displays of Jeep vehicles
- Extensive vendor booths featuring Jeep accessories and parts
- Show & Shine competition showcasing customized Jeeps
- Opportunities to connect with fellow Jeep enthusiasts
11. Great Smoky Mountain Bronco Stampede
Ford Bronco fans can look forward to the 3rd Annual Great Smoky Mountain Bronco Stampede, taking place on August 15–16, 2025, also at the LeConte Center in Pigeon Forge. This event celebrates all things Bronco, offering a platform for enthusiasts to showcase their vehicles, participate in off-road activities, and engage with vendors specializing in Bronco accessories.
Event Details:
- Dates & Time: August 15–16, 2025; 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM daily
- Location: LeConte Center, 2986 Teaster Lane, Pigeon Forge, TN
- Admission: $15 per person; $5 for children aged 5–12; free for children under 5
Features:
- Bronco vehicle displays
- Off-road activities and trail rides
- Vendor booths with Bronco-related products
- Show & Shine competition
- Social events and gatherings for Bronco enthusiasts
Conclusion: A Summer of Unforgettable Memories in the Smoky Mountains
A slew of exciting events and festivals await you in the Smoky Mountains this year. Whether you want to explore the region's iconic festivals, enjoy thrilling car shows, or take in the beauty of the mountains, there's no shortage of entertainment to make your trip truly memorable. The Smoky Mountains are also home to a wide range of activities beyond the festivals, including hiking, fishing, and wildlife viewing, ensuring there's never a dull moment for visitors.
If you're looking to experience the full charm of the Smoky Mountains, Stony Brook Cabins offers the perfect place to stay. With luxury cabins featuring theater rooms and close proximity to all the major events, you'll be able to relax in comfort while exploring everything this amazing destination has to offer.
