Whether you are someone who counts down the days to next Christmas beginning every December 26th or you are an authentic Grinch, it is impossible not to feel the holiday spirit when you visit the Incredible Christmas Place in Pigeon Forge. It is known as the “largest permanent Christmas retailer in the American South, and one of the largest in the United States.” And before you think you don’t really need to pay a visit to a holiday specialty store, consider that it offers “everything Christmas.” From ornaments and premium artificial trees to lighting for indoors or out, it also makes musical recordings, gifts, décor of all kinds, collectibles and many other items available. And whether you lean towards the country style of décor or a totally modern look, they’ll have plenty to catch your eye. In fact, a quick look at the categories of products available makes it easy to see that it really can be your go-to destination for holiday shopping whether you visit in July or January. Even more exciting is the fact that they operate within a unique E.L.F. Philosophy (Empowerment, Leadership and Fun). This is one in which the goal of every employee is to ensure that all guests have a shopping experience that “represents the spirit of Christmas, provided by highly trained, friendly, and caring employees.” Who on earth needs the mall when there are people, whoops “elves,” eager to ensure you have a positive day or two of shopping. And if you are thinking that it all sounds great but you cannot lug your loot back home with you, think again. With items like full-sized Christmas trees and delicate ornaments as well as perishable items, they understand you may not have room in the car or wish to haul such things into an airport. That is why they have shipping available for any and all purchases. You can have flat rates for standard purchases and specialty rates for express, special locations, or oversized items, too. If you think that you just won’t be able to walk into such a location and make good choices for your holiday decorating scheme, you may appreciate their decoration services. Available for homes and businesses, they pair you with one of the Incredible Christmas Place designers who listens to your preferences and then works with you to put together a customized holiday decorating scheme that can include everything from bows and ornaments to trees and lighting. They even have expert outdoor lighting teams to help you make flawless plans! And if you want to enjoy a stay in the Incredible Christmas Place, you can book your room at the Inn at Christmas Place with year-round holiday décor, luxurious rooms and lots to enjoy on the premises. Whether you want to enhance your holidays or get into the Christmas spirit come July, you will want to pay a visit to the Incredible Christmas Place when you visit Pigeon Forge and the Smokies.
Art in Public Places, presented by Dogwood Arts, has returned to Blount County with six new outdoor sculptures. These works can now be seen around Maryville and Alcoa, including the Clayton Center for the Arts, the Alcoa Municipal Building, Greenway Village and Pistol Creek near downtown Maryville.
Founded in 2007 by Eddie Mannis and Bart Watkins, this annual rotating sculpture exhibition has brought more than 300 works of art to public spaces throughout East Tennessee. Showcasing world-class sculptures from artists across the nation, the program transforms everyday environments into open-air galleries.
Here’s a look at the new installations and the artists behind them.
About the Artist: David Sheldon is a multidisciplinary artist based in Western North Carolina. He earned a BFA in Painting from the Rhode Island School of Design, including a formative year in Rome, and an MFA from the University of Maryland. Working primarily in metal, Sheldon creates sculptural works that explore the dynamics of form and space, a style he calls “spatial music.” His practice is rooted in Modernist principles and inspired by the natural majesty of the mountains he calls home. Sheldon’s paintings and sculptures reflect deeply personal experiences in nature, merging expressive abstraction with a spiritual sense of connection to the universe.
About the Artist: John Parker is a sculptor who transforms industrial materials into organic, animated forms. Working primarily with steel plate, he draws inspiration from the segmented structures of insects and other natural forms, translating them into large-scale works that balance strength and motion. Parker’s sculptures are designed for interaction, offering both a striking silhouette from afar and an engaging experience up close. His work emphasizes the importance of accessible public art, inviting viewers to encounter sculpture as a living part of their environment rather than something confined to museum walls.
Location: Maryville-Alcoa Greenway, across from Alcoa Municipal Building
Sponsor: C2RL, City of Alcoa
About the Artist: Ann Melanie is an experienced sculptor and educator with a strong background in higher education, teaching and advising within the fine arts. She holds a Master of Fine Arts in Sculpture from East Carolina University and is skilled in a wide range of sculptural processes, including monumental steel work. Her extensive experience spans electronic media, photography, printmaking and art education. She has a strong exhibition record, with works held in both public and private collections.
About the Artist: Susan Woodford is a sculptor whose work explores the intersection of healing, environmental stewardship and neo-feminist expression. Raised in Southern Maryland amid global political currents, she channels early experiences with conflict and recovery into her art. Working in metal, stone and glass, Woodford creates organic forms that reflect resilience and transformation. From leading rehabilitative arts workshops with veterans to developing hospital installations, her practice centers on restoration through creativity. Based at Art Farm Studio in the Midwest, she maintains a sustainable, nature-focused studio that supports collaboration among sculptors.
Sponsor: John & Sue Clark, City of Maryville, Blount Foundation
About the Artist: Nathan Pierce is a sculptor dedicated to creating art that engages communities and inspires new perspectives. His large-scale works merge industrial strength with delicate translucency, inviting viewers to rediscover the beauty within the everyday. Drawing on the landscapes and stories of his upbringing, Pierce uses his art as a catalyst for connection and reflection. His sculptures have been featured in numerous public exhibitions across the Midwest, and are held in permanent collections in Arkansas, Florida and Georgia. His practice continues to elevate public spaces through innovation and insight.
About the Artist: Brian Ferriby is a professional studio artist, sculptor and arts educator whose work reflects a deep connection to place and material. A graduate of the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor and the Cranbrook Academy of Art in Bloomfield Hills, he maintains a multidisciplinary studio practice and creates commissioned public art installations across the Midwest. Ferriby’s work draws inspiration from his surroundings, exploring themes of decay, memory and transformation. He seeks authenticity through close observation of the familiar, uncovering what lies just beneath the surface and making the unseen seen.
Born and raised in Maryville, Tennessee, with roots tracing back to Cades Cove, Emily Huffstetler is a proud Maryville College graduate and passionate storyteller of the Greater Smokies region.
The Great Smoky Mountains have a way of leaving you speechless—where words fall short, the landscape speaks for itself. Luckily, a few people have managed to capture its magic. From Franklin D. Roosevelt to Dolly Parton, here are some of our favorite quotes about the Smokies.
Dolly Parton, in Her Own Words
Dolly Parton has spent her life sharing the spirit of the Smokies through music, stories and an unmistakable voice that resonates far beyond Tennessee. Though her career spans the globe, she always finds her way home.
“The Smokies always call me home.”
— Dolly Parton
“When I come here it’s a feeling like nothing else. It has grown, as all things must. But the Smokies will never lose their charm and their magic.”
— Dolly Parton
“We got the most radiant flowers, the biggest assortment of trees. The Smokies have a heart of their own. It’s the way the water flows, the way it sounds, and the way it feels when you get in it. I don’t know if it’s just because it’s my home—but I really don’t think so. I think it’s just one of those special places that God put here for us to enjoy.”
— Dolly Parton
Preserving a National Treasure
The idea for a national park in the Smokies took root in the 1920s, when loggers were rapidly cutting away the old-growth forests. Locals, conservationists and even schoolchildren across the country raised money to help purchase the land. In 1934, Great Smoky Mountains National Park was officially established—and it became a symbol of both natural beauty and public determination.
“There are trees here that stood before our forefathers ever came to this continent; there are brooks that still run as clear as on the day the first pioneer cupped his hand and drank from them. In this Park, we shall conserve these trees, the pine, the red-bud, the dogwood, the azalea, the rhododendron, the trout and the thrush for the happiness of the American people.”
— Franklin D. Roosevelt, 1940 dedication of GSMNP
Townsend: The Peaceful Side of the Smokies
Before U.S. Highway 321 was built, getting into the mountains from Townsend meant following logging rail lines or old wagon roads. Today, it’s known as the “Peaceful Side of the Smokies,” a quieter entrance to the national park that holds tight to its roots.
“Nestled at the gateway to the Smoky Mountains, Townsend, Tennessee isn’t flashy. It doesn’t have to be. It’s a place where nature and nostalgia collide—where time slows down, and the air tastes cleaner. You won’t find neon lights, but you will find stories: in every diner, every trail, and every neighbor. The mountains are calling.”
— PBS Hometowns
“Townsend, Tennessee, is a quiet town with the Smokies at its front door.”
— Southern Living
East Tennesseans: Shaped by the Land
East Tennessee’s rugged landscape has long shaped its people—independent, community-minded and deeply rooted in place. During the Civil War, the region was largely pro-Union, even as the rest of the state sided with the Confederacy. That same spirit of conviction carried into the 20th century through leaders like Senator Howard Baker of Huntsville, TN, who played a pivotal role in shaping modern bipartisan politics.
“East Tennessee is a land of high hills, deep hollows, and deep convictions.”
— Senator Howard Baker
The area’s geography has also influenced local speech and music. Isolated mountain communities developed distinct vocal styles that can still be heard in traditional and modern Appalachian music.
“When I think about singing, and music, I think about how the people who live on the East Tennessee side have more of a curve or yodel to their voices, and then you think about the curve of mountains.”
— Valerie June, musician
Songs of the Smokies
The earliest songs tied to the Smokies come from Appalachian folk traditions, with melodies and lyrics carried over from early Scots-Irish settlers. “On Top of Old Smoky,” for example, is thought to have roots in 18th-century British ballads, later shaped by American mountain music.
Today, the Smokies continue to show up in country, bluegrass and Americana. Here are a few notable examples:
“Smoky Mountain rain keeps on fallin’ I’ll keep on callin’ her name”
— Ronnie Milsap
“Don’t let Smoky Mountain smoke get in your eyes If you do, I’m tellin’ you You’ll want to live there the rest of your life”
— The Osborne Brothers
“Sing me a song of the Smoky Mountains And I’ll be home by the sun”
— Conner Smith
“Smokey Mountain memories About my home in Tennessee Yesterday keeps calling me, calling me home”
— Earl Thomas Conley
“On top of old Smoky, all covered with snow I lost my true lover from courting too slow”
— Traditional
“I guess that’s why they call them Great Smoky Mountains ‘Cause they cover every trace And they hide a man’s face when he cries”
— Old Crow Medicine Show
“Back to Old Smoky Mountain Back to that old hometown of mine The birds in the trees, and the honeybees Cling to the honeysuckle vine”
— Gene Autry
Do you have a favorite quote about the Smokies? Tag us on social media (@PeacefulSmokies) for a chance to be featured.
Born and raised in Maryville, Tennessee, with roots tracing back to Cades Cove, Emily Huffstetler is a proud Maryville College graduate and passionate storyteller of the Greater Smokies region.
The story of Southern Appalachian English in Blount County starts in the late 1700s, when Scots-Irish, English and some German families moved into the valleys and coves of the Smokies. They spread throughout the county, from Cades Cove—settled in 1818—to small hollers and ridges, bringing with them their mother tongues and regional dialects.
The mountains kept people tucked away, letting old words stick long after they’d disappeared elsewhere. Folks said “afeared” for afraid, “holp” for helped, “hit” instead of it and “yonder” to point out distance.1
Double modals came naturally—“might could,” “used to could”—a direct inheritance from Scots-Irish speech.2 Storytellers added a-prefixing: “He come a-running down the hill.”3 Past tense verbs had their own shape: people “clumb” trees, “knowed” their neighbors and “drug” firewood across the yard.4 Sometimes a descriptive word got softened with a little “-like”: “He’s pretty tall-like.”
Outsiders often dismiss Southern Appalachian English as “uneducated” or “backward,” but linguists see it very differently. It’s not Elizabethan English frozen in time, as legend sometimes claims, but rather a descendant of colonial-era English, Scots-Irish and southern British dialects.5
It might surprise you to hear a grandmother in Blount County use a word that Shakespeare himself once wrote.
Shakespeare: “I am afeard.”
Southern Appalachian: “The child was afeared of the dark.”
Or to hear her speak with a rhythm that feels almost Biblical.
Bible: “And it came to pass… and he went up… and he spake unto them.”
Southern Appalachian: “He come to the house, and he set down and he told us the story.”
What sounds rustic to some ears is, in fact, a living archive of the English language.
Names carried that same history. Families reached back to the Bible and old English traditions with names like Silas, Amos, Ezra, Elisha, Otis, Odell, Ethel, Alma, Bess and Effie. Some naming patterns gave the first-born a grandparent’s name, distinguishing between relatives by nicknames like “Big John” or double names like “Sara Jane.”6
Schooling, tourism, social media and new neighbors have softened some of the older forms of Southern Appalachian English. But you might-could still hear it—in churches, on front porches and around supper tables. You just have to listen closely.
Common Southern Appalachian words and expressions:
“You-uns” or “Y’all” – you all.
“Yonder” – over there. Not too far, but not too close.
“Fixin’ to” – getting ready to.
“Fellers” – men or boys
“Reckon” – to suppose, think, or guess.
Other words and expressions that linger:
“Millers” – moths
“A fur piece” – a long way. (“Maryville’s a fur piece from Townsend.”)
“Right smart” – a good bit, a lot. (“That’s a right smart crowd at the game.”)
Born and raised in Maryville, Tennessee, with roots tracing back to Cades Cove, Emily Huffstetler is a proud Maryville College graduate and passionate storyteller of the Greater Smokies region.
On the Peaceful Side, it’s not unusual for a longtime-local’s basement to feel like a mini history museum, filled with practical pieces, family heirlooms and other treasures. That tradition of holding on to things and taking good care of them makes the area great for antiquing. Here are 10 shops worth exploring in Walland, Rockford, Louisville and Maryville.
This is a classic “wander and see what you find” stop, with inventory both inside and outside. It’s great when you want variety and have time to browse.
Not strictly an antique shop, but antiques come through here regularly. It’s a good spot for finding treasures without boutique markups, and proceeds benefit local animal groups.
This location has a mix of antiques and books, and their “Everything Room” is perfect if you love to dig.
Born and raised in Maryville, Tennessee, with roots tracing back to Cades Cove, Emily Huffstetler is a proud Maryville College graduate and storyteller of the Greater Smokies region.
Did you know that the Smokies have inspired a variety of films and shows? From dramas and holiday tales to documentaries, here are 10 picks for your next movie night.
A Walk in the Spring Rain
Released in 1970, A Walk in the Spring Rain tells the story of Libby Meredith (Ingrid Bergman), who moves with her husband to a rural Tennessee farmhouse for the season. There, she meets neighbor Will Cade (Anthony Quinn), a widowed farmer, and the two develop an unexpected connection.
The film was shot on location in the Great Smoky Mountains, showcasing ridgelines, farmsteads and creeks in spring. Its backdrop offers a glimpse of Appalachian life in the early 1970s, before large-scale tourism reached the area.
Love in the Great Smoky Mountains
Released in 2023, Love in the Great Smoky Mountains: A National Park Romance centers on Haley (Arielle Kebbel) and Rob (Zach Roerig), former college sweethearts who reunite during an archaeological dig in the Smokies. As they work to uncover artifacts, old feelings resurface.
Filmed on location in and around Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the movie highlights scenic trails, forested ridges and historic sites, pairing the park’s landscapes with a contemporary romance.
The Fool Killer
Released in 1965, The Fool Killer follows George Mellish (Edward Albert), a 12-year-old orphan who flees his troubled home in the aftermath of the Civil War. As he wanders through the Southern countryside, he encounters various strangers, including a mysterious axe-wielding drifter (Anthony Perkins) who may be the legendary “Fool Killer”—a figure who punishes those lacking moral integrity.
Filmed partly in the Great Smoky Mountains region, the movie uses misty ridgelines, dense woods and rustic cabins to enhance its eerie, dreamlike tone. The natural Appalachian landscape mirrors the psychological tension of the film, offering a haunting and atmospheric backdrop to a story about trauma, justice and survival.
Christmas in the Smokies
Released in 2015, Christmas in the Smokies follows Shelby Haygood (Sarah Lancaster), who runs her family’s berry farm in Tennessee. When a land developer threatens to take it over, she works with childhood friend and country music star Mason Wyatt (Alan Powell) to save the farm in time for the holidays.
Filmed in the Great Smoky Mountains region, the movie features small-town streets, mountain views and working farmland, blending seasonal scenery with a modern story of community and tradition.
A Smoky Mountain Christmas
Released in 1986, A Smoky Mountain Christmas stars Dolly Parton as Lorna Davis, a country singer seeking solitude in a Tennessee mountain cabin. Instead, she encounters a group of orphaned children hiding from the local sheriff and a scheming woman who wants the land.
Filmed in the Great Smoky Mountains region, the made-for-TV movie features log cabins, wooded hillsides and mountain streams, blending holiday themes with the rustic setting of rural Appalachia.
Christy
Premiering in 1994, Christy is a television drama based on Catherine Marshall’s novel of the same name. Kellie Martin stars as Christy Huddleston, a young woman from Asheville who travels to the remote Appalachian community of Cutter Gap in 1912 to teach school.
Filmed in the Great Smoky Mountains region, the series showcases mountain hollows, split-rail fences and period log buildings, depicting daily life in an isolated settlement at the turn of the 20th century.
Coat of Many Colors
Released in 2015, Dolly Parton’s Coat of Many Colors is a made-for-TV movie inspired by Parton’s childhood in the Smoky Mountains. Set in 1955, it follows young Dolly (Alyvia Alyn Lind) and her family as they face hardship, faith, and loss, with the patchwork coat sewn by her mother becoming a symbol of love and resilience.
Filmed in the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains, the production features rural farmsteads, dirt roads, and mountain backdrops, reflecting the region’s mid-century Appalachian setting.
Kissin’ Cousins
Released in 1964, Kissin’ Cousins stars Elvis Presley in dual roles as U.S. Air Force officer Josh Morgan and his look-alike mountain cousin, Jodie Tatum. Morgan is sent to convince his relatives in the Smoky Mountains to allow the military to build a missile site on their land, leading to musical numbers and comedic misunderstandings.
Filmed partly in the Great Smoky Mountains region, the movie blends mountain scenery with 1960s Hollywood set pieces, mixing Appalachian-themed humor with Elvis’s signature song performances.
The National Parks: America’s Best Idea
Episode: “The Great Smoky Mountains”
Premiering in 2009, The National Parks: America’s Best Idea is a six-part PBS documentary series by Ken Burns. One episode, “The Great Smoky Mountains,” explores the park’s creation, highlighting the logging era, the displacement of local families, and the conservation movement that led to its 1934 establishment.
Filmed on location in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the series combines archival photographs, historic film footage and present-day landscapes to tell the story of the park’s natural beauty and complex history.
Alice’s Adventures on Earth
Episode: “Great Smokey Mountains”
Premiering in 2024, “Alice’s Adventures on Earth” is a PBS children’s series that blends live-action storytelling with nature education. The show follows Alice, a curious young explorer, as she travels across America’s national parks to learn about wildlife, ecosystems, and conservation. Each episode pairs whimsical narrative elements with real-world science, encouraging kids to connect with the environment around them.
One episode was filmed in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, showcasing mist-covered trails, salamander-filled streams and blooming wildflower meadows. With scenes set among old-growth forests and mountain overlooks, it highlights the biodiversity of the Smokies while inviting young viewers to see the park as both magical and meaningful.
Born and raised in Maryville, Tennessee, with roots tracing back to Cades Cove, Emily Huffstetler is a proud Maryville College graduate and passionate storyteller of the Greater Smokies region.
While fall gets all the fame, winter is a magical time to hike the Smokies. With the leaves down, the mountains open up, revealing views you’d never see otherwise. Here are our top tips for making the most of it, while staying safe.
If you’re a beginner, start with a low-elevation trail.
The higher you climb, the colder and more unpredictable the weather becomes. Atop Mount LeConte (6,593 ft), for example, temperatures can run 15-20 °F colder or more than at the valley below.
If you’re new to hiking, the safest bet is to start with lower elevation trails. Here are a few options near the Townsend entrance:
Avent Cabin (Elkmont) – 2.0 miles roundtrip, ~500 ft gain
Abrams Falls (Cades Cove/Townsend) – 5.2 miles roundtrip, ~675 ft gain
Schoolhouse Gap (Townsend) – 3.8 miles roundtrip, ~513 ft gain
You can also use the park’s live webcams at Kuwohi (formerly Clingmans Dome) and Look Rock to preview weather conditions from home. They even track air quality, which can affect both breathing and visibility on the trail.
Tell someone your plan.
Even if you’re going with a buddy, let someone back home know your route, expected start and finish times, and where you’re parking. Cell service is spotty throughout the Smokies, so having a backup person is important if anything unexpected happens.
Bring plenty of water.
Colder temperatures can suppress thirst, but hydration is important no matter the weather. Bring more water than you think you’ll need.
Prepare for rapidly changing mountain weather.
A sunny start can turn into snow, fog or icy wind on the ridges, so pack as if it will be colder and wetter than the forecast suggests. Opt for moisture-wicking base layers, an insulating mid-layer and a waterproof outer shell. That way, you can easily adjust as conditions change.
Keep your hands warm and dry.
Gloves get wet fast in the Smokies’ damp winter air, especially on popular trails with icy railings and slick rocks. Pack a waterproof pair, bring a backup and toss in hand warmers so you can keep your fingers moving comfortably all day.
Start early in the day.
Winter days are short, and the sun dips behind the ridges faster than you might expect. Hitting the trail early gives you plenty of daylight to work with, as well as a buffer if things go slower than you planned.
The American Hiking Society suggests setting a firm turnaround time before you leave home. Naismith’s Rule can help you calculate this: one hour for every three miles, plus an extra hour for every 2,000 feet of ascent.
Watch your footing.
When daylight is short, even a minor twist or stumble can derail your plans. Fallen leaves and snow can hide holes, roots, stumps and rocks. Move carefully, and consider using trekking poles for extra stability.
Bring a First Aid kit.
It’s important to bring a First Aid kit year-round, but there are a few items that become especially important in the wintertime:
Emergency blanket
Hand and foot warmers
Headlamp/flashlight with extra batteries
Extra gloves and socks
Small tarp
Lightweight fire-starting kit
Thermal hat
Respect wildlife.
Wildlife activity slows in winter, but animals still need plenty of space. Black bears, for example, don’t truly hibernate. They enter a lighter sleep state called torpor, where they rest for long stretches but can still wake up, especially on warmer days.
Born and raised in Maryville, Tennessee, with roots tracing back to Cades Cove, Emily Huffstetler is a proud Maryville College graduate and passionate storyteller of the Greater Smokies region.
Eating out doesn’t have to cost a fortune, especially in Maryville and Alcoa. Whether you’re after tacos, burgers, soups or something more unique, these locally owned spots offer good food without the markup. Here’s a guide to places where you can eat well for $16 or less.
Originally a food truck, REO now serves grilled cheese combos and homemade soups in a casual indoor space. Expect creative spins on comfort food, like the award-winning Blackberry Smoke (provolone, blackberry jam, pickled jalapeños and bacon). Nearly everything is under $10; gluten-free options cost a bit more. Pair your sandwich with the soup of the day for the full experience.
This place does exactly what the name promises—soups, sandwiches and cornbread served hot and fast. Their menu changes daily, offering eight kinds of soup at a time. Most meals are well under $10. They’ve proudly been in business for over 40 years.
A hidden gem that offers a rotating take-home family dinner posted daily on Instagram and Facebook. At the restaurant, you’ll find grilled sandwiches, soups and salads—all priced under $15. For just $10.99, you can mix and match two favorites: the soup of the day, a small garden salad, a homemade side or a small scoop of protein salad.
Charming Southern breakfast spot and coffee shop. The menu includes biscuits, waffles, muffins, cookies and cakes. They also serve coffee and low-caffeine alternatives. Find a cozy corner in this historic home, or sprawl out on the wraparound porch.
Hip pub and brewery with plenty of indoor and outdoor seating. Their pastas, sandwiches, burgers, flatbreads and salads are all under $15. Stop by on a Friday evening to enjoy live music and local brews.
Overlooking a sparkling pond, this place looks like it should be expensive, but it’s not. Most sandwiches, salads and daily specials are $16 and under. Enjoy steak, fish, sandwiches, burgers, nachos, tacos and more.
Authentic Mexican food that feels like a taquería, not a Tex-Mex chain. Street tacos come in a wide range of fillings, from al pastor to cactus, and are less than $4 each. The quesadillas are $10 and under, and the $11 tortas are large enough to split.
Cozy café tucked inside a used bookstore and record shop. It serves breakfast and lunch all day, with a large selection of vegan sandwiches, burgers and salads. The pick-two option lets you mix and match a sandwich with a soup or salad for $12.95. They also offer coffee and cold drinks, if you just want something to sip on.
Classic drive-in vibe with burgers, hot dogs, sloppy joes and fries. The smashed burgers are under $5, while old fashioned burgers stay under $8. Round out your meal with a milkshake, banana split, arctic blast or ice cream sundae. A soft-serve ice cream cone is under $2.
Thai food and sushi with generous lunch specials—just around $16 including your choice of miso soup or salad. You’ll find plenty of vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free options. Dine-in is quick, and takeout is even faster.
Where’s your favorite place to grab a bite to eat on the Peaceful Side of the Smokies? Tag us on our social media (@PeacefulSmokies).
Born and raised in Maryville, Tennessee, with roots tracing back to Cades Cove, Emily Huffstetler is a proud Maryville College graduate and passionate storyteller of the Greater Smokies region.
It is no secret that the restaurant industry has taken a significant hit over the past year, and although this is Blount County’s 19th Annual Taste of Blount, this year is a little different. This year we need to come together and support our local restaurant industry more than ever. And what’s a more flavor-filled and exciting way to do that than attending this year’s Taste of Blount?
What is Taste of Blount?
Taste of Blount is a collection of savory food favorites from restaurants, caterers, food trucks, and gourmet grocers who offer samples to event attendees. In return, each ticket holder places a vote for their favorite “Culinary Excellence Awards,” including Best Appetizer, Best Sandwich, Best Beverage, Best Main Course, Best Dessert, Best Presentation, and Best Overall.
Who is Participating in the 19th Annual Taste of Blount?
Who? – The Taste of Blount is hosted by the Blount County Chamber of Commerce.
Where? – Theater in the Park in Maryville, TN
When? – Thursday, September 9, 2021, from 6:00 – 8:00 pm
How? – Tickets are $25 (plus tax) for Chamber members and $30 (plus tax) for the public. All children, five years and under, get in free. Tickets can be purchased at the Chamber office (201 S. Washington St., Maryville, TN), on the Chamber website, or by phone at 865.983.2241. Tickets will also be available at the door the night of the event on a cash-only basis.
This year’s event will also include the ability to purchase cold brews and spirits, thanks to a partnership with Cherokee Distributing and members of the East Tennessee Distillers Guild, including Heath Clark, Old Forge, and Sugarlands & Co. Distilling.
Make sure to get your tickets ahead of time because this will be a sold-out event. We look forward to sharing some fantastic food and beverages with everyone next month!
Check out these posts for similar activities in Blount County:
With winding mountain roads and incredible scenery, it’s no surprise that the Peaceful Side of the Smokies is such a popular biking destination. Make your way down for the second-annual Smoky Mountain Bike Week, set for Sept. 28 to Oct. 5, to experience some of the world’s best riding, check out the latest gear and kick back at a variety of free concerts.
Guided Rides
Ride the infamous Dragon, Cherohala Skyway, Foothills Parkway and more in good company. Staging takes places at 8:30 a.m. in the back lot of Smoky Mountain Harley Davidson (Smoky Mtn H-D). The mandatory ride meeting follows at 9 a.m., and roll out is at 9:15 a.m. Each guided ride includes a lunch stop.
The Shed Smokehouse and Juke Joint at Smoky Mtn H-D will be hosting concerts throughout the week. Gates open at 6 p.m.; music starts at 7:30 p.m. and ends at 11 p.m. Many of the concerts are free to attend.
The Vendor Village will be open daily at Smoky Mtn H-D (9 a.m. to 6 p.m.) and Foothills Mall (9 a.m. to 7 p.m.). Check out the latest upgrades, bike accessories and gear.
Vendors at Smoky Mtn H-D: Slyfox, RWD Suspension, Saddlemen, Tab, LA Choppers, Legend Suspension, Drag Specialties, Optic Armour, Rumbling Pride, Fairing Exchange, Monster Brite, Sinister Sound, Badass Cigars, Heavy Metal Jewelry, Breezy Ryder, Hard Street, Just a Little Bling, Patch Sewing by Susan, X-Treme Paint, Rockford Fosgate, SP Connect, Label Industries, Garza, Hard Street, V-Twin Visionary, Junction 35 and Custom Dynamics
Breakfast and coffee will also be available to purchase from 8 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.
Vendors at Foothills Mall: Mustang Seats, Ciro, J & P Cycles, Black Label Performance, TN Leather, X-Treme Bikes, Oil City Customs, Rollin Throttle and KST Kustoms
Several local businesses are also participating in Smoky Mountain Bike Week. For a full calendar of events, visit the Smoky Mountain Bike Week Website.
Born and raised in Maryville, Tennessee, with roots tracing back to Cades Cove, Emily Huffstetler is a proud Maryville College graduate and passionate storyteller of the Greater Smokies region.
Whether you’re spending Easter weekend in Blount County or just looking for a place to worship while you’re here, there are plenty of local churches to choose from. Here’s a roundup of Easter services happening in Maryville, Townsend and Alcoa.
Maryville
1st United Methodist Church, Maryville 7:00 a.m. sunrise service at Montgomery Ridge Intermediate School 8:15 a.m. traditional worship 10:30 a.m. traditional worship 10:30 a.m. contemporary worship 11:45 a.m. Easter gathering in Wesley Hall
Broadway Baptist Church, Maryville 7:00–7:45 a.m. sunrise service 8:30 a.m. worship service 9:45 a.m. Sunday school 10:45 a.m. worship service
Fairview Church, Maryville 6:30 a.m. sunrise worship service in the church parking lot 8:30 a.m. Easter Resurrection celebration 11:00 a.m. Easter Resurrection celebration
New Providence Presbyterian Church 9:00 a.m. The Circle worship service 10:00 a.m. fellowship hour 10:15 a.m. Easter egg hunt 11:05 a.m. traditional worship service and livestream
Valentine’s Day is right around the corner, and this year you can get a jump start on the rest of the world by booking your romantic dinner out right away. After all, it is shocking how quickly the tables at the area’s most romantic spots fill up and waiting until a week or two ahead of Valentine’s Day often means you don’t get a reservation. Lucky for you, there are plenty of options for romantic dinners in Blount County.
If you are going for that sort of super-romantic evening out, we have five local Blount County restaurants that are ideal for a Valentine’s Day dinner for two.
The Barn at Blackberry Farm – If your goal is to impress and enjoy amazing and authentic local food, you will have a tough time matching the options at this Walland restaurant. Featuring expert chefs, bakers, and even a sommelier to help you pair your Foothills Cuisine with local wine, it is a dining adventure perfect for Valentine’s Day. Dancing Bear Lodge – The bistro in this wonderful Townsend restaurant allows you to make reservations even if you are not staying at the lodge. Noted as one of the most romantic settings in the entire region, the bistro’s menu is a fantastic blend of local favorites with a new twist. Opt for local cheeses, innovative appetizers, local greens and vegetables, and classics that include an Appalachian Hot Pot, a blue cheese-encrusted pork chop, and more. Excellent wines and irresistible desserts make it perfect for a romantic night out. Foothills Milling Company – Located in the heart of Maryville, this is a popular choice and reservations are required. In a charming and welcoming setting, you can take your choice from the ever-changing wine list and a menu that reflects the season. Your Valentine’s Day dinner for two could include everything from truffle fondue or crab soup to a warm cabbage salad, rack of lamb, salmon and more! Sullivan’s – Another fine food establishment in Maryville, this features a tremendous menu of innovative dishes that includes everything from a steak, strawberry and blue cheese salad to classic “blue plates” and local favorites. An impossible to resist dessert menu and a low-key, almost casual atmosphere make it the perfect spot for a delicious evening out on Valentine’s Day. Aubrey’s – Less romantic and more fun, this is a great spot if you are taking yourselves, and maybe even the kids out to celebrate this day that’s all about love. Enjoy selections from an excellent beer and wine menu. Remain in awe of the fantastic dinner menu with small plates, specialties and a great “Perfect Pairs” option. Rich desserts and even a kids’ menu ensures that an entire family can enjoy a Valentine’s Day dinner that is fun, tasty and relaxed. This is also a Maryville location.
There are a lot of options, but you won’t want to wait much longer to book your table. Use the links here to choose your ideal spot on the Peaceful Side of the Smokies, and whether it is a meal for two or the entire gang, you’re sure to enjoy your Valentine’s Day dining together.
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