Festivals and fun make September an exciting time to visit the Smoky Mountains, especially if you like being outdoors. The sun is still shining, but the weather is starting to cool down, making it the perfect time to enjoy Mother Nature. Just take a look at a sample of what to expect.
Old-fashioned wagon rides
From September 1 to November, enjoy an old-fashioned wagon ride. Step back in time to the days of harvesting the harvest as you ride a tractor-drawn wagon through downtown Gatlinburg and admire the beautiful scenery of the Smoky Mountains. These tours are available for less than $ 5.00 per person and run from 5 to 9 pm, Sunday through Thursday. Register at traffic light n. 6 at Mountain Mall, where coaches depart approximately every 45 minutes. Proceeds benefit United Way.
Dollywood and Bluegrass BBQ
If you love good food and great music, you won’t want to miss the Barbeque and Bluegrass Festival in Dollywood. This festival begins on September 5 and continues through the 28th. There are over 500 free concerts by some of the biggest names in bluegrass like Ricky Scaggs, Doyle Lawson and Quicksilver, and Riders in the Sky, to name a few. Once you’ve worked up your heels, take a stroll to the BBQ venue in Market Square. There you can buy delicious grilled ribs, juicy chicken or tender pulled pork, as well as all the add-ons that complete your grilled dinner.
Great rod stroke
If you like hot rods, this is the place for you. From September 11-14, Pigeon Forge hosts the Grand Fall Rod Run. Located at The Grand Resort Hotel and Convention Center, this is one of the three great car shows in Pigeon Forge where car enthusiasts come to hear revving engines and stripping tires, as well as take in the incredible sight of these old but good ones.
Taste of autumn
No matter what you like to eat, you are sure to find it at Taste of Autumn. More than 30 of the best restaurants in the Smokies set up stations at the Gatlinburg Convention Center where you can sample their delicious food for a small price. You’ll also enjoy live jazz music and a live auction. Since all proceeds go to the United Way of Sevier County, this is an opportunity to enjoy great food and fun and also to help a worthy cause.
Smoky Mountain Harvest Festival
From September 19 to the end of October, you can watch the area around the Smoky Mountains display its fall decorations and crafts. Wander the shops where shopkeepers display crafts that have been made in these mountains for generations and are an important part of the Smokies’ heritage. Whether you are searching or shopping, you will definitely appreciate the workmanship that goes into each one.
Run for the hills
This 10K race cuts through downtown Gatlinburg, hills and all! The Run for the Hills is a licensed race held on September 21. While the view is incredible, with all the ups and downs you have to be a true athlete or a glutton for punishment to participate. The registration fee is $ 20 if received before September 8 and $ 25 after.
September is a fun-filled month in the Smoky Mountains. With so many activities to choose from, you’ll want to make plans now to visit at least once during September.