Category: Uncategorized

Company Distilling Becomes Official Bourbon of the Tennessee Theatre

Posted on December 19, 2022 by - Uncategorized

For the 2023 and 2024 seasons, Company Distilling and the historic Tennessee Theatre will work towards a shared vision of celebrating Tennessee’s rich heritage in distilling, arts, and history.

“We couldn’t be more excited about the partnership with Company Distilling. With their team having deep roots in Tennessee, a passion for bringing people together, and a dedication for progressing the arts in the region forward, we know this partnership will yield a lot of new ideas and creativity for both organizations,” said Becky Hancock, Executive Director of the Tennessee Theatre.

The new partnership is effective immediately, making Company Distilling Bourbon the official bourbon of the Tennessee Theatre. Guests of the Tennessee Theatre will have the opportunity to enjoy Company Distilling Straight Bourbon Whiskey Finished with Maple Wood and Ghost Rail Tennessee Dry Gin at shows throughout the season. Additionally, there will be opportunities to win tickets and participate in special events. Be sure to follow both Company Distilling and the Tennessee Theatre on social media for more information and announcements.

The Tennessee Theatre is 94 years old and opened on October 1, 1928, as a grand movie palace in downtown Knoxville, Tennessee. In the early 1980s, the theatre was purchased by James A. Dick, who ensured its future as a performing arts venue. Soon after the purchase, both the Knoxville Opera and Knoxville Symphony Orchestra became resident companies. In 1996, it was turned over to a newly formed non-profit, the Historic Tennessee Theatre Foundation. The theatre is home to broadway shows and live music throughout the year and continues to develop their programming within downtown Knoxville.

Company Distilling opened its Townsend, Tennessee, location officially in July of 2022. The distillery, bottle shop, and tasting room is a short 31 miles from downtown Knoxville and offers visitors the opportunity to taste fine spirits as they enjoy The Peaceful Side of the Smokies, less than a mile away from the entrance to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. 

Company Distilling was founded by leaders in Tennessee distilling with a passion for history and elevating the craft distilling industry in their home state. Kris Tatum and Jeff Arnett have been instrumental in the growth of distilling in the state of Tennessee. The Company Distilling team is proud of their Tennessee heritage and looks forward to the partnership with the Official State of Theatre of Tennessee. “The partnership with the Tennessee Theatre fits perfectly with our vision for Company Distilling: the history, high level of service, quality of productions, and the goal of bringing people together. We’re excited to grow together over the next few years,” said Jeff Arnett, Master Distiller.

Growing up just down the road from the theatre in South Knoxville, Kris Tatum, President & Founder, reflected on his experiences at the theatre and what ultimately helped shape his love for movies and film. “Every time I walk into the Tennessee Theatre, I am blown away by its beauty and history. It’s somewhere I want to bring family and friends to spend time together. The work the team is doing to continue to preserve its heritage is something we admire as a company and was what drew us to want to partner. We have big plans for the impact this partnership can have on our home communities in East Tennessee.” 

The founders of Company Distilling will continue their passion for the state of Tennessee, its rich history, and education by hosting the “Distilling Greatness” podcast. Recorded inside the beautiful Tennessee Theatre, listeners can Gather Around with the Company Distilling team and a few of their friends to get a taste of the people and places that make up the rich stories of whiskey in Tennessee. Initial episodes include:

  • Gather Around: Tennessee Whiskey & Tennessee Theatre History + Why You Should Care – To be released on January 5, 2023
  • Gather Around: The Science of Tennessee Whiskey – February
  • Gather Around: Whiskey Tourism & Sense of Place – March

The podcast will be available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, and CompanyDistilling.com. 

Kris Tatum, President & Founder, spoke in jest that he wasn’t sure “why anyone would listen to myself and Jeff talk to our friends about things we love, but there seems to be a lot of interest in hearing us make fun of each other.” With Company, making fun of each other is part of the process; when pleasantries are replaced with a little provocation. In an environment like this, there are no politics, there is no posturing. And meetings don’t feel like meetings at all. They’re just informal gatherings of like-minded people with their own unique set of skills – exchanging ideas and keeping each other honest. This is where real collaboration comes from and how actual progress is made. Because, in the end, the last thing anyone wants to do is let down a friend.

Courtship in Cades Cove: Corn Husking, “Sparking” and Weaner Cabins 

Posted on February 12, 2026 by - Blog, Uncategorized

Written by: Emily Huffstetler 

Still looking for a Valentine? In Cades Cove, you might have started with a corn husking. 

Cades Cove’s first permanent Euro-American settlers arrived in 1818, and the community grew steadily through the mid-1800s. By 1850, the Cove’s population was in the high six hundreds.   

In a working valley, neighbors relied on each other. Seasonal labor brought people off isolated farms and into the same place at the same time. 

Corn husking, molasses making and gathering chestnuts were some of the community events where young people could mingle under adult supervision. 

One local account describes a tradition that turned the search into a game. If a young man found a red ear of corn in the husking pile, the discovery earned him the right to “kiss the lady of his choice.” 

Weekly church services brought people together, too. Baptist life split into two congregations in 1839, when a group left over mission work and other practices. Methodists also had an established church presence in the Cove by the 1820s.

For courting couples, Sunday was another chance to see each other. 

Large households shaped the logistics of dating. Families of 10 to 12 children weren’t unusual, and privacy was limited in one- and two-room cabins. That pushed conversations outside, on porches and in yards. 

One interpretive guide for the Cove published by the Great Smoky Mountains Institute at Tremont points visitors to a porch bench near Cable Mill used for “sparking,” an older term for courting. 

The word also shows up in a recorded Cades Cove interview from the 1930s, where a speaker recalls older boys teasing children about “sparking,” and an adult stepping in to explain what it meant. 

“This picture was taken at Maryville Tenn on Saturday afternoon of January 26, 1901… Next day, Sunday, Nancy Ann and I rode horseback… to Cades Cove a distance of 20 miles… We were 22 years old and not married. We were married Sept. 4, 1901.” —John W. Oliver 

Oliver (1878–1966) is the author of the Fifty Years in Cades Cove memoirs, a handwritten account of the valley’s families and daily life from early settlement through the early 1900s. Photo courtesy of University of Tennessee, Knoxville. “Fifty Years in Cades Cove Collection.” John W. Oliver and wife, Nancy Ann (Maryville, 1901). 

Sparking often moved toward marriage. In much of Southern Appalachia, weddings were informal during this era, staged in either the bride’s or groom’s home.  

Some newlyweds would spend their early days of marriage in a “weaner cabin,” far enough away for independence but close enough for family assistance. 

After the ceremony, friends sometimes returned late at night to “serenade” the couple. They’d go from house to house making noise, ringing cowbells and even firing guns. This was part of a wider rural tradition known elsewhere as a “shivaree” or “charivari.” 

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. 

Cycling on the Peaceful Side

Posted on July 9, 2024 by - Blog, Uncategorized

Written by: Emily Huffstetler

The Peaceful Side of the Smokies is a renowned cycling destination. Over the past 30 years, the local Tour de Blount has attracted thousands of cyclists from across the nation. With scenic mountain roads and quiet countryside rides, discover why so many visitors love cycling on the Peaceful Side.

Maryville and Alcoa

The Maryville-Alcoa Greenway features over 18 miles of trails running alongside Pistol Creek and through scenic parks throughout Maryville and Alcoa. Bikes are also allowed in designated areas within Maryville College’s 140-acre woods.

Cycology Bicycles, a family-owned business in Maryville, sells a variety of bikes, apparel and accessories. Their experienced staff can assist you with all your cycling needs.

They host free intermediate group rides every Tuesday and Thursday, covering 35 to 45 miles at a 15 to 17-mph average pace. From Memorial Day through Labor Day, rides start at 8:30 a.m., then shift to 10 a.m. after the holiday. On Greenway Sundays, which run from April to October, a shorter ride departs from Pearsons Springs at 4 p.m. and turns around at Clayton Homes.

The Cycology Women’s Rides Series (CWRS), now in its 12th year, offers a women’s cycling program from April through October. It caters to all levels with four no-drop pace groups.

Maryville Bike & Trail, named the Best Bicycle Shop by The Daily Times in 2023, offers a variety of bike sales and rentals.

They host beginner rides on Tuesdays at 6 p.m. and intermediate rides on Thursdays at 6 p.m. The beginner rides are about 5 miles long, while the intermediate rides cover about 15 miles at a 10-mph average pace. Holiday social rides are advertised on their Facebook page.

Townsend

Vee Hollow, a 14-mile mountain bike trail network, is free to use and open year-round. It has four distinct zones for riding, ranging from easy to difficult, with a skills area, jump trails, mountain trails and more. Bikes are available for rent for up to three days.

Cades Cove Loop Road is motor vehicle-free on Wednesdays starting in June through September, allowing the perfect opportunity for cycling. The loop is 11 miles long, with historical buildings to check out along the way.

Tremont Road, 2.1-miles long, connects the Great Smoky Mountains Institute at Tremont to the Middle Prong Trailhead.

The Townsend Historical Trail spans 4.5 miles on both sides of US 321/Lamar Alexander Parkway, totaling 9 miles. The trail runs along Little River and features a 0.3-mile unpaved River Walk.

Other attractions along the way include the Great Smoky Mountains Heritage Center, the Little River Railroad Museum, Gracehill Fine Art & Basketry, Apple Valley Mountain Village & Cafe, Towns End Coffee and the Townsend Visitors Center. Bikes can be rented at the Smoky Mountain Outdoor Center.

Walland

Walland offers routes such as Ellejoy Jaunt, a 20.5-mile loop starting at Coulter Bridge with scenic farmland and panoramic mountain views, and Old Walland Hwy, a 17.6-mile out-and-back paved ride. Cyclists should be mindful of motor vehicles on these roads.

Whether you’re an experienced cyclist or a beginner, the Peaceful Side of the Smokies has a variety of trails and resources to ensure an enjoyable ride.

Interested in Tour de Blount? This event takes place every spring. You can learn more on their website.

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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.

Dancing Bear Appalachian Bistro Earns Named to OpenTable’s Top 100 Most Romantic Restaurants

Posted on February 6, 2024 by - Uncategorized

Dancing Bear Appalachian Bistro, nestled in the heart of East Tennessee at the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains, has been honored with the distinction of being named one of the Top 100 Most Romantic Restaurants in the USA by OpenTable. This exclusive recognition was officially announced on January 31st, 2024, solidifying Dancing Bear Appalachian Bistro as a standout establishment in the realm of romantic dining experiences.

OpenTable, a leading provider of online restaurant reservations, compiled this annual list based on millions of verified diner reviews across the country. Dancing Bear Appalachian Bistro’s commitment to exceptional culinary offerings, warm hospitality, and an enchanting ambiance has set it apart as the sole representative from East Tennessee.

Known for its rustic charm and idyllic setting on the Peaceful Side of the Smokies, Dancing Bear Appalachian Bistro has captivated the hearts of diners seeking a romantic and memorable experience. The restaurant’s dedication to crafting innovative Appalachian-inspired cuisine using locally-sourced ingredients has garnered widespread acclaim, including being named one of TripAdvisor’s Best of the Best Top 25 Fine Dining Restaurants in the USA in 2023.

Mark Oldham, CEO of Oldham Hospitality, expressed his gratitude for the recognition, stating, “We are thrilled to be acknowledged by OpenTable as one of the Top 100 Most Romantic Restaurants in the USA. This accolade is a testament to the hard work and passion our team puts into creating an unforgettable dining experience. Being recognized for providing a uniquely romantic setting is a really fun and appreciated honor as we begin celebrating the Valentine’s Day holiday with our guests this month!”

Dancing Bear Appalachian Bistro invites patrons to celebrate this accomplishment by experiencing the romance and culinary excellence that have earned them a place among the nation’s elite dining establishments. With Valentine’s Day just around the corner, the restaurant is set to deliver an enchanting celebration for couples seeking a memorable and romantic evening between February 10th-17th where they will feature curated Sweet Heart menus for guests.

For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.DancingBearLodge.com/Events or contact 865-448-6000.

Dancing Bear Appalachian Bistro Named to OpenTable’s 2026 Top 100 Romantic Restaurants in America

Posted on February 2, 2026 by - Uncategorized

Dancing Bear Appalachian Bistro has been named to OpenTable’s 2026 Top 100 Romantic Restaurants in America, earning the distinction as the only restaurant in East Tennessee to appear on the national list.

Based on more than 14 million verified diner reviews, the honor recognizes restaurants that consistently deliver exceptional food, service, and atmosphere. For Dancing Bear, the recognition reflects a long-standing commitment to creating meaningful guest experiences rather than chasing trends.

“There’s a lot of noise in the restaurant world,” said Houston Oldham, VP of Operations, “but what really matters is the table in front of us. Romance lives in the details—the way you’re welcomed, the pace of the evening, the quiet moments that happen naturally.

Whether it’s a proposal, an anniversary, or a Tuesday night dinner, those details are what keep people coming back.”

Led by Executive Chef Je\ Carter, the Bistro is known for refined Appalachian cuisine served in a warm, intimate setting that resonates with both visitors and locals alike.

Located in Townsend, Tennessee—the Peaceful Side of the Smokies—Dancing Bear Appalachian Bistro continues to be a destination for memorable dining rooted in Appalachian hospitality.

Dancing Bear Appalachian Bistro Named Top 25 Fine Dining Restaurant

Posted on October 4, 2023 by - Uncategorized

Dancing Bear Appalachian Bistro is honored to announce that it has been awarded with TripAdvisor’s prestigious Top 25 Fine Dining Restaurants in America for 2023.

This accolade is bestowed upon a select few restaurants in the world who have consistently received outstanding reviews and opinions from the TripAdvisor community over a 12-month period. Dancing Bear Appalachian Bistro not only earned this esteemed recognition worldwide, but also secured a place in the top 25 fine dining restaurants in the United States.

TripAdvisor’s Travelers’ Choice Best of the Best awards are known for celebrating excellence in the travel and dining industry. These awards are granted to businesses that consistently deliver exceptional experiences and have met TripAdvisor’s rigorous trust and safety standards. Less than 1% of the 8 million listings on TripAdvisor receive the Best of the Best recognition, underscoring the remarkable achievement and commitment to excellence that Dancing Bear Appalachian Bistro has demonstrated.

“We are absolutely delighted to receive the TripAdvisor Top 25 Fine Dining Restaurants in America Award,” said Mark Oldham, CEO at Oldham Hospitality, which owns Dancing Bear Appalachian Bistro. “This recognition reflects the dedication and passion of our entire team to provide exceptional Appalachian-inspired cuisine and unparalleled dining experiences. We want to extend our heartfelt gratitude to our loyal patrons and the TripAdvisor community for their continued support and outstanding reviews.”

Nestled in the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains, Dancing Bear Appalachian Bistro has become a culinary destination known for its locally-sourced, farm-to-table fare and its comfortable rustic ambiance. The restaurant’s commitment to crafting innovative dishes inspired by the Appalachian region, combined with its picturesque natural surroundings, has made it a favorite among travelers and locals alike.

Dancing Bear Appalachian Bistro has consistently received glowing reviews from diners who have praised its culinary creativity, attentive service, and inviting atmosphere. This consistent stream of above-and-beyond feedback has culminated in this prestigious accolade.

As one of the top 25 restaurants in the nation, Dancing Bear Appalachian Bistro continues to set the standard for excellence in the hospitality industry. This award is a testament to their dedication to providing an unforgettable dining experience in the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains.

For more information about Dancing Bear Appalachian Bistro and to make reservations, please visit www.dancingbearlodge.com.

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Dancing Bear Appalachian Bistro Secures Spot in TripAdvisor’s Travelers’ Choice Best of the Best for the Second Year in a Row

Posted on October 17, 2024 by - Uncategorized

Dancing Bear Appalachian Bistro is proud to announce that, for the second consecutive year, it has earned a place among TripAdvisor’s Top 1% Fine Dining Restaurants worldwide for 2024. This prestigious accolade underscores the restaurant’s commitment to delivering unforgettable culinary experiences and consistently earning outstanding reviews from the TripAdvisor community.

Being recognized in the TripAdvisor Travelers’ Choice Best of the Best Awards for two years in a row is a testament to Dancing Bear’s relentless pursuit of excellence. The award is given to less than 1% of the 8 million businesses listed on TripAdvisor and celebrates those who consistently offer remarkable experiences while meeting rigorous trust and safety standards.

“We are beyond thrilled to be recognized again among the finest dining establishments in the United States,” said Mark Oldham, CEO of Oldham Hospitality. “Our team’s passion for showcasing Appalachian-inspired cuisine and creating memorable dining moments for our guests is at the heart of what we do. This award belongs to our entire team and to the guests who continue to support us with their kind reviews.”

Nestled in the tranquil beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains, Dancing Bear Appalachian Bistro is celebrated for its locally sourced, farm-to-table approach to Appalachian cuisine. Diners have praised the restaurant’s innovative dishes, attentive service, and inviting rustic ambiance—-qualities that have earned this repeat distinction.

Dancing Bear Bistro Earns Prestigious One‑Star Wine Award

Posted on March 3, 2026 by - Uncategorized

Dancing Bear Appalachian Bistro, the award-winning culinary heart of the Great Smoky Mountains, is proud to announce it has been awarded a one-star accreditation by The World of Fine Wine in its annual “World’s Best Wine Lists” competition.

This global recognition places Dancing Bear among an elite group of establishments worldwide recognized for the quality, curation, and character of their wine programs. The World of Fine Wine awards are judged by a distinguished panel of world-leading wine critics and Masters of Wine.

“We are incredibly honored to receive this recognition from such a respected global authority,” said Houston Oldham, Director of Operations for Oldham Hospitality. “The World’s Best Wine Lists awards are essentially the Michelin stars of the wine world, and earning this accreditation validates our commitment to excellence. It’s a reflection of our team’s dedication to providing a world-class experience right here in Townsend.”

The Bistro’s wine program, which features over 300 labels, is designed to complement the “Appalachian Bistro” concept—a blend of rugged mountain tradition and refined technique.

“Our goal was to build a list that feels both adventurous and deeply intentional,” said Michelle LaBorde, Sommelier at Dancing Bear Appalachian Bistro. “Receiving this star is a tribute to the storytelling we do through each bottle. We strive to find wines that respect the land and the producer, ensuring every glass enhances Chef Jeff Carter’s seasonal menus.”

The one-star rating distinguishes the Bistro’s wine list for its:

  • Breadth and Depth: A selection that demonstrates a clear personality and a high standard of selection.
  • Curation: A cellar that balances iconic global vintages with unique, terroir-driven selections.
  • Integration: A seamless harmony between the wine program and the modern Appalachian cuisine.

This accolade adds to a growing list of honors for the Bistro, which consistently ranks in the Top 1% of Fine Dining Restaurants worldwide by TripAdvisor and was recently featured among Open Table’s Top 100 Most Romantic Restaurants in the USA.

Located on the “Peaceful Side of the Smokies,” Dancing Bear Appalachian Bistro continues to define luxury mountain dining through its farm-to-table philosophy and world-class beverage program.

Dancing Bear Lodge Announces Bluegrass Concerts

Posted on March 14, 2023 by - Uncategorized

Dancing Bear Lodge & Appalachian Bistro announces plans for two outdoor concert events this spring and summer. Concert attendees will enjoy live bluegrass music on Dancing Bear Lodge’s outdoor lawn while enjoying the beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains.

On Thursday, April 27th, celebrated American mandolinist and 3-time Grammy award-winner, Sam Bush, and his Band will perform on the outdoor stage at Dancing Bear. A member of the International Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame, Sam Bush’s progressive approach to bluegrass music earned him the title “Father of Newgrass.” The Travelin’ McCourys will jam on the Dancing Bear lawn on Thursday, July 6th. The Nashville-based bluegrass band includes impressive sounds from the group’s fiddle, mandolin, banjo, bass, and guitar.

Concert goers also have the option to purchase access to a pre-concert dinner prepared by Dancing Bear Appalachian Bistro’s culinary team. The Appalachian Harvest Meal will be served buffet style immediately prior to the concert, and will include a bounty of seasonal dishes.

Each concert is family friendly and open to the public with ticket purchase. All seating is general admission on the property’s lawn directly in front of the outdoor stage, providing an intimate concert experience where every seat is a good seat. Chairs will be provided to attendees; additional picnic blankets are welcome. No outside chairs, food or beverages permitted. On-site parking is available.

Ticket package options include:

  • Ticket Only – Doors open at 7PM. Parking will be available at the Apple Valley Mountain Village.
  • VIP Tickets – For VIP ticket holders, doors open at 6PM to enjoy the Appalachian Harvest Meal. VIP tickets also include on-property parking.
  • Cabin Guests – All Lodge guests staying on-site that night will enjoy concert access, dinner prepared by Executive Chef Jeff Carter and his culinary team.

Prices vary per ticket. For more information or to purchase tickets, please visit DancingBearLodge.com.

Date Ideas on the Peaceful Side

Posted on July 16, 2024 by - Blog, Uncategorized

Written by: Emily Huffstetler

On the Peaceful Side, date night doesn’t have to be same ol’, same ol’. And it doesn’t just have to be for singles. Consider these ideas when you and your significant other want to spend quality time together.

Active Adventurers – Townsend

Start the morning off exploring Tuckaleechee Caverns, the highest-rated cavern of the Eastern United States. Along the 1.25-mile tour, there are millions of formations and a 210-foot waterfall to admire. At the end, you’ll experience total darkness in a room big enough to fit a football stadium.

Grab lunch at one of the many restaurants in Townsend, including Peaceful Side Social, Little River Pub and Deli, and The Abbey.

Then, put on your water shoes and head to River Rat, the highest-rated Tubing Outpost in Tennessee. Outpost A, a calmer, two-hour route, features a private rock jump and swimming holes. Meanwhile, Outpost B offers an hour-long, heart-pumping adventure.

You can tube once, or you can go until closing with a Day Tubing Pass. Pro Tip: If you book a day or more in advance, you’ll receive a $5 discount per person.

If you’re not looking to spend money, consider hiking instead. These are a few of our top picks, ranging from easy to strenuous:

All of these hikes have rewarding scenery, ranging from waterfalls to panoramic mountain views. To beat the summer heat (and the crowd), start your trek earlier in the morning, and be sure to bring plenty of water.

Classic Romantics – Downtown Maryville

Keep things simple and sweet. Surprise your date with flowers from a local florist, like Hartman’s Flowers and Gifts or Coulter Florist & Greenhouses. Then, go out for a romantic dinner in Downtown Maryville. Bella, Diamondjack and The Walnut Kitchen are some of our favorites.

Early Birds – Maryville

Get an early start to the weekend at the Maryville Farmers’ Market, which operates on Saturday mornings from April to November. You can grab coffee, sweet treats, produce, flowers—whatever your heart’s desire.

Once the two of you are done shopping, mosey on over to Bella, Southern Grace Coffee or Vienna Coffee House for a hearty southern brunch. Then, take a leisurely stroll on the Maryville-Alcoa Greenway or peruse shops downtown. We love Dandy Lions Gifts, J. Danforth Mercantile, Neighborly Books and Pinkie Mistry Art.

History Buffs – Townsend

If you’re looking for a weekday adventure with your sweetheart, embark on a 3.5-hour Cades Cove Heritage Tour. Enjoy a break from driving in a comfortable ADA-compliant bus, while experienced guides reveal the history of Cades Cove and point out wildlife.

Townsend has a variety of museums to explore any day of the week. Dive into East Tennessean history at the Great Smoky Mountains Heritage Center, where you and your loved one can experience live demonstrations and tour 17 preserved Appalachian structures.

Or head down the road to the Little River Railroad and Lumber Company Museum, which preserves the heritage of what was once one of the largest commercial logging operations in southern Appalachia. This museum is free to visit, although donations are appreciated.

Retro Lovers – Maryville

Take a blast to the past at a drive-in movie. But first, you’ll want to get some snacks.

Start your evening off with sweet treats at the Capitol Theatre in Downtown Maryville. There are a variety of movie-themed sundaes, floats, candies and bottled drinks to choose from. The two of you can enjoy ice cream there and pick something else to take with you.

Then, take a short drive to Bigfoot Popcorn. There are unique flavors, like Bigfoot Poop and banana pudding, as well as traditional ones like cheddar and caramel.

Before dusk, make your way to the Parkway Drive-In off East Lamar Alexander Parkway. If you get there early enough, you’ll be able to pick a prime parking spot. You can stick around for both movies or call it a night after the first. Either way, it only costs $10 per adult.

Are you or your loved one planning a date on the Peaceful Side? We’d love to hear how it goes. Be sure to tag us on social media (@peacefulsmokies).

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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.

December Happenings on the Peaceful Side 

Posted on November 26, 2025 by - Blog, Uncategorized

Written by: Emily Huffstetler 

From tree lightings and makers markets to concerts, fun runs and cozy workshops, December on the Peaceful Side is full of festive fun. Here’s a preview of what’s happening this month, with a late November event to kick things off. 

November 29 – City of Maryville Tree Lighting 

Wrap up the downtown holiday market with the City of Maryville tree lighting at the Maryville Municipal Parking Garage on Broadway. The tree will be lit at approximately 5:30 p.m.

December 1 – City of Alcoa Tree Lighting 

Celebrate the lighting of the City of Alcoa Christmas tree at the pedestrian bridge at the Springbrook Corporate Center in Alcoa at 6:15 p.m. Following the ceremony, enjoy special music, refreshments and a visit with Santa Claus. 

December 2 – “A Maryville Christmas” 

Photo: Maryville College

The annual “A Maryville Christmas” concert begins at 7 p.m. in the Ronald and Lynda Nutt Theatre at the Clayton Center for the Arts. The evening features the Maryville College Concert Choir performing A Ceremony of Carols by Benjamin Britten, sing-along selections with the Orchestra at Maryville College, the Maryville College Community Chorus, and chamber ensembles Off Kilter, Lads and Lassies sharing beloved holiday classics. 

December 4 – Blount County Festival of Trees 

The Blount County Courthouse lawn in Downtown Maryville will be illuminated by live Christmas trees of all sizes, colors and themes, with the tree lighting at 6:30 p.m. The opening celebration includes entertainment, refreshments and Santa Claus, and the trees remain on display throughout the month for visitors to walk through or drive by and enjoy. 

December 4–6 – Santa Mouse Christmas House 

Photo: Santa Mouse Christmas House

Presented by the Blount County Arts & Crafts Guild, the Santa Mouse Christmas House fills Dotson Memorial Baptists Church in Maryville (814 Dotson Memorial Rd) with handmade arts and crafts. Shop unique gifts and decor from local artisans throughout this three-day holiday event. 

December 5 – ’Tis the Saison! 

Photo: Peaceful Side Brewery

Join Peaceful Side Brewery in Maryville from 5:30 to 7 p.m. for an evening of education and tasting. Learn about the history of farmhouse brewing and taste a curated selection of Belgian and American saisons, each paired with the story behind the brewery that created it. 

December 5–6 – The Best Christmas Pageant Ever 

Broadway Center for the Arts presents The Best Christmas Pageant Ever, a heartwarming holiday tradition filled with laughter and the true meaning of Christmas. Performances are Friday at 7 p.m. and Saturday at 3 p.m. and 6 p.m., featuring a talented cast from across East Tennessee. 

December 6 – H.O.M.E. for the Holidays 

H.O.M.E. (Hall-Oldfield-Maryville Empowerment) and the Martin Luther King, Jr. Community Center in Alcoa partner for this annual community celebration to kick off the Christmas season, with the tree lighting at 6 p.m. Enjoy family fun and light refreshments at 209 E Franklin Street. 

December 6 – The Maryville Makers Market Christmas Event 

Photo: Maryville Makers Market

Head to Maryville College campus from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. for the Maryville Makers Market Christmas Event. Browse more than 100 makers, and enjoy live music, demonstrations, kids’ activities and food vendors.  

December 6 – Story Time with Santa 

Bring the family to Neighborly Books in Downtown Maryville at 11 a.m. for story time with everyone’s favorite jolly fellow. 

December 12 & 13 – The Nutcracker 

Photo: Appalachian Ballet Company

The Appalachian Ballet Company and the Knoxville Symphony Orchestra present The Nutcracker, bringing this beloved holiday classic to life at the Clayton Center for the Arts over two days. Act One features a glittering holiday party and snowy scene, while Act Two transports audiences to the Land of the Sweets with the Sugarplum Fairy, Cavalier and more. 

December 7 – Reindeer Run 5K Road Race & 1-Mile Fun Run 

The final leg of the Healthy Blount Triple Crown of Running features a 5K road race and 1-mile Fun Run/Walk from 2 to 4 p.m. Awards are given to Overall and Masters winners, the top three in each age division and the best male and female Christmas costumes. All Fun Run participants receive a keepsake, and a portion of proceeds benefits the Empty Pantry Fund. 

December 7 – Townsend Christmas Parade 

Join the community for the Townsend Christmas Parade from 2 to 4 p.m. See local floats and bands, as well as Santa Claus himself.

December 8–13 – A Claus to Celebrate 

Photo: Louisville Mercantile

Louisville Mercantile kicks off a week of holiday fun, running December 8-13. Each day features a new special, with a highlight Sip & Shop event on Thursday, December 11 from 5 to 7 p.m. 

December 9 – Santa Calls for Ages 3–6 

Children ages 3–6 in Blount County can receive a very special phone call from Santa Claus between 5 and 7 p.m. Thaks to volunteers from the Maryville-Alcoa Civitan Club, Santa will ring directly from the North Pole for this free program. The deadline to register is December 8. 

December 13 – Christmas Market at Southern Grace Coffee Co. 

Southern Grace Coffee Co. Hosts its annual Christmas Market from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., packed with local vendors, hot coffee and cocoa, baked goods (including dairy-free and gluten-free options), boutique clothing, handcrafted decor and gifts.   

December Weekends – Christmas in the Village 

Photo: Christmas in the Village

Experience a taste of Appalachian Christmas traditions at the Great Smoky Mountains Heritage Center’s Christmas in the Village festivities. Enjoy living history demonstrations, evening tours of historic structures and warm refreshments during select weekend evenings (12/5–12/6, 12/12–12/13 and 12/19–12/20) from 5:30 to 7 p.m.

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. 

Diamondjack Opens New Location at Little Arrow Outdoor Resort

Posted on April 24, 2023 by - Uncategorized

Diamondjack at Little Arrow, a new dining destination featuring approachable, southern novelties executed at a high level, is now open at Little Arrow Outdoor Resort in Townsend. The restaurant is open Wednesday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Located at 118 Stables Drive in Townsend, Diamondjack at Little Arrow offers public dine-in and takeout options for guests with parking available at their respective sites or accommodation. Visitors not staying at the resort can park along Stables Drive. With a maximum capacity of 16 people, guests can expect an intimate and personalized dining experience.

Little Arrow, an idyllic resort nestled in the Great Smoky Mountains, is excited to partner with Diamondjack and offer a new amenity to its guests and the community. “Little Arrow is thrilled to partner with the sophisticated folks at Diamondjack by offering this new amenity and partnership for our guests and community to be able to enjoy,” said Cassie Halley, Little Arrow’s COO and CMO. “The future looks bright…and delicious! We’re just getting started and can’t wait to expand as we grow.”

Diamondjack is equally excited about the partnership with Little Arrow and the opportunity to become part of the Townsend community. Rachel Talley, the owner of Diamondjack said, “Diamondjack can’t wait to be a part of the Townsend community in the unique environment that Little Arrow provides.”