Tag: Smoky Mountain Tourism

Grains & Grits Festival: Townsend’s Annual Spirited Event

Posted on October 5, 2022 by Rachel Coffman - Blog, Events, Townsend

Any East Tennessee history buff can tell you plenty about the long history we have with Grains & Grits, liquor and bootleg in this neck of the woods. Corn whiskey dates back as far as the early settlers of the Appalachian foothills. Moonshining, named from the practice of distilling under the moonlight to avoid unwanted attention, became especially popular as state and national prohibition laws started to take hold across the country. During this time, many moonshiners were forced to either shut down their stills and lose their additional income or find themselves on the wrong side of the law. With the demand for whiskey at a prime, many folks took to the back roads of the Tennessee mountains, spending the rest of their careers avoiding the law. Lucky for us, as whiskey has made a resurgence in popularity, a talented few have taken their family recipes and turned them into legal distilleries across the region.

On Saturday, November 5, 2022, we will celebrate these legendary distillers at our annual Grains & Grits Festival in Townsend, TN. It will be a festival of regional craft spirits and local gourmet cuisine, tucked into the Peaceful Side of the Smokies.

Here’s a sneak peek at some of the Tennessee Distillers Guild members you will be able to sample at the event:

Company Distilling
Old Forge Distillery
Sugarlands Distillery
Old Dominick Distillery
Jack Daniels
George Dickel
H Clark Distillery
Short Mountain Distillery
Leiper’s Fork Distillery
Old Glory Distilling Co.
Bootleggers Distillery
Chattanooga Whiskey
Tennessee Legend Distillery
Post Modern Distillery
Corsair Distillery
Prichard’s Distillery
Ole Smoky
King Family Distillery
Nashville Barrel Company
BR Distilling Company
Gate 11 Distillery
Nashville Craft
Junction 35 Distillery
Big Machine Distillery

The Ring of Fire is Back Again

Michael Sullivan- aka- The Reverend of Fat is excited to bring “The Ring of Fire” to this year’s Grains and Grits Festival. Sullivan is heading up the culinary aspect of the event. “It’s a unique way for attendees to be satiated while enjoying their spirit samples.”
Five chefs will encircle a large fire pit where a whole pig, lamb, chickens, and sausages will be roasted and served. Each chef will be paired with a distillery and will incorporate the distillery’s spirit into their dish.

This year, we are honored to have Chef Rubén García take part in the Ring of Fire. Garcia spent years in a 3-star Michelin restaurant, he appeared twice on Iron Chef as the victor and is now the Creative Operating Officer and Founder of UNFOLD Hospitality where he inspires new chefs and leads concept development with restauranteurs to help realize their vision and potential.

Participating Restaurants

American Butcher
Dancing Bear Appalachian Bistro
The Old Mill Pottery House Café and Grille
City Limits Barbeque
Motor Supply Co. Bistro
AMICI
Puckett’s Grocery & Restaurant
Lulu Liquor Cakes
Willy’s Butcher Shop
Junction 35 Spirits

Along with a variety of seasonal gourmet foods, you can also enjoy live music from Pink Cadillac. As one of Nashville’s best party, funk, rock, rhythm & blues, soul, dance band featuring a smoking rhythm & horn section, and topped off with their powerhouse choreographed female vocalists, and rock and soul male lead vocalist. There is something for everyone at the Grains and Grits Festival.

Join us on the Townsend Visitor Center event lawn, from 6:00 – 9:00 pm, for a unique fall tasting experience you can only find in the Great Smoky Mountains. All attendees must be 21 years or older, and the event will take place, rain, or shine. Parking opens at 5:00 pm. For more information about the event, please check out our website at https://grainsandgritsfest.com.

Friends playing cornhole at Grains & Grits in Townsend, TN

See below for other events in Blount County:

Beer Lovers Unite at Maryville – Hops in the Hills

The Great Smoky Mountains Hot Air Balloon Festival: A Kaleidoscope of Entertainment

By: Rachel Coffman

Grammy-Winning Infamous Stringdusters LIVE at Dancing Bear Lodge

Posted on May 23, 2022 by jmuir - Uncategorized

Dancing Bear Lodge in Townsend, TN is excited to announce Grammy Award-Winning artists, The Infamous Stringdusters performing “Live on the Lawn” on Thursday, July 7th, 2022 @ 7:30 pm. This will be an intimate concert event, with only 500 tickets available. The show will open with the Sweet Lillies.

Dancing Bear Lodge boasts an outdoor event venue and has created the most intimate concert setting on the Peaceful Side of the Smokies. “We are excited to host a band as popular as the Stringdusters on our unique Lawn,” says Director of Operations Houston Oldham, “Our venue is one of the most incredible spaces in the Smokies. Guests will get to enjoy the show on an amphitheater style lawn, but with less than 500 people. You won’t get to see the Stringdusters like this again!”

The optional pre-show dinner will be an Appalachian BBQ theme, featuring house smoked baby back ribs, brisket, pulled pork, white BBQ chicken, and an array of Southern-style fixings. The meal will be prepared on site using fresh vegetables from the property gardens and locally sourced and in-house smoked meats and ingredients.

The Infamous Stringdusters will be debuting their 2022 Album release “Into The Fray” Inspired by self reflection and a strong sense of solidarity, the project documents the Grammy Award-winning group’s remarkable growth as instrumentalists as well as songwriters. Released on their own label, Americana Vibes, the collection also firmly establishes the band’s stature on the modern acoustic music landscape, where they’ve built a solid and enduring fan base among traditional and progressive audiences alike.

Tickets are currently available online at www.dancingbearlodge.com. For more information on the
concert and ticket options, please visit here.

Great Hikes for You & Your Dog in Blount County, TN

Posted on May 25, 2018 by dstech - Activities, Blog

The Smokies region is beautiful, but there’s something extra special about seeing it with your best friend by your side. Just you and them, enjoying the sights and sounds of Eastern Tennessee, first through your own eyes, and then through their perspective.
The crisp, clean air, the sounds of rustling leaves, chirping birds, the smell of the pine trees, the fresh scent of the grass, the strong odor of animals who have been there before you, the gray of the plants, the darker gray of the trees… Oh, didn’t we mention? Your best friend just happens to be a dog!
Unfortunately for them – and despite the fact that they are some of the most enthusiastic hikers – pets aren’t allowed in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park (except for two small trails outside of Blount County) for reasons having to do with wildlife preservation. Thankfully, there are other options; you don’t have to leave your best friend behind to get some outdoor recreation. Check out these trails and get ready for your next great walk together!

The Maryville-Alcoa Greenway

The Maryville-Alcoa Greenway is a 9-mile trail that goes through both towns, offering a pleasant walk and access to 4 different parks in Maryville and 2 in Alcoa. It also offers links to the business and shopping districts in the towns, as well as picnic pavilions, natural areas, and fitness stations. The experience is pleasant and relaxed, with meandering streams here and there, and trails that are well-maintained and clearly-marked for different distances and directions, with water fountains and pet waste cleanup stations scattered throughout.
While you’re on the Maryville-Alcoa Greenway, don’t forget to visit the Petsafe Dog Park, which is Maryville’s first public dog park. The hours are from dawn to dusk every day, with a half acre for small dogs and a full acre for larger canines. There’s also a pavilion, benches, a dogs-only water fountain, and an unleashing area.

The Look Rock Tower Trail

The Look Rock Tower Trail is a short hike (perfect for smaller dogs!) of just under a mile. The trail includes an observation tower that allows human and canine hikers to take in some lovely views of the western side of Great Smoky Mountains National Park, as well the Maryville and Alcoa areas. Dogs are allowed, of course, but they have to be kept on leash, and it’s popular with families and kids. This paved trail is a great alternative to the non-dog-friendly Clingmans Dome trail in the National Park.

The Tremont Logging History Auto Tour

The Tremont Logging History Auto Tour is a unique trail that runs along three miles of gravel road, just south of Townsend, Tennessee. It’s actually a historical site – there was once a logging town there, around the 1900s.
Dogs on leash are allowed, but so is horseback riding, and look out for drivers – when they say auto tour, they mean that you can take your car on the trail (and what dog doesn’t love a good car ride?). If you’d prefer, you can actually drive the trail, park, and get out and enjoy the streams with your dog. If you do decide to walk the trail, it’s 6.1 miles altogether.
Wherever you and your best friend go together, make sure you’re ready for beautiful scenery, clean air, and all the natural beauty of the Smokies region that Blount County has to offer!

Harley-Davidson Dealer Contributes to Smoky Mountains Tourism

Posted on September 15, 2015 by dstech - Activities, Blog

With attractions like the Great Smoky Mountains National Park; Ober Gatlinburg; University of Tennessee athletics; and Dollywood; hundreds of hiking trails and fishing areas; a seasonably mild climate and as much shopping as one could ask for, it is no surprise that East Tennessee has become a popular tourist destination in the Southeast.
While much of the region’s tourism can be attributed to these well-known, popular attractions and amenities, there are some “under the radar” places that are peaking people’s interests across the country and having a positive impact on East Tennessee’s tourism industry. One of those is Smoky Mountain Harley-Davidson (SMH-D) in Maryville, Tenn.
When Scott Maddux opened Smoky Mountain Harley-Davidson dealership more than 11 years ago; he envisioned a place where his passion for motorcycles and music could come together. Little did he know, the 60,000 sq. ft. vacant Lowe’s home improvement store building he purchased, near the gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains, would become the tourist destination that it is today.
Since its inception, Smoky Mountain Harley-Davidson has been a different breed of motorcycle dealerships. From its proximity to “The Dragon,” the popular and internationally famous 11-mile, two-lane, 318-curve mountain pass along the Tennessee-North Caroline state line; the modern rustic design of its expansive showroom; to its vibrant music venue and restaurant known as The Shed Smokehouse & Juke Joint, located on-property and featuring live shows every Saturday night; both riders and non-riders have helped transform the dealership into a regional landmark and social hangout.
There’s a unique vibe at SMH-D that rings of East Tennessee, and it’s being noticed by tourists from all parts of the country who make the dealership a key stop on their visit to East Tennessee each year, regardless of whether they ride a motorcycle.
“From the day we opened our doors, we’ve tried to create a real sense of community here,” says Scott Maddux, Owner of Smoky Mountain Harley-Davidson. “To us, it’s not about selling motorcycles. It’s about promoting a certain lifestyle and helping people experience the freedom and kinship that only comes from being a rider. I think people appreciate that.”
As an extension of this commitment, Smoky Mountain Harley-Davidson has developed a free program called Rider Guest Services, which is designed to assist group ride planners interested in visiting East Tennessee with recommended riding routes and preferred lodging, dining and entertainment options.
Here are some additional facts and figures that speak to Smoky Mountain Harley-Davidson’s potential impact on East Tennessee tourism:
• Visited by riders from all 48 contiguous states and around the world.
• More than 200 musicians have performed on the stage of The Shed, including Blackberrry Smoke, Jason Isbell, Sturgill Simpson, Kentucky Headhunters, John Hiatt, Drive By Truckers, and Leon Russell, among others.
• Served as the rally point for more than 100 charity/community rides.
• The list of celebrities that have visited SMH-D includes: Rusty Wallace, Bill Francis, David Keith, Little Big Town, Kyle Petty, Albert Haynesworth, Phillip Fulmer, Herb Brooks, Bruce Pearl, and multiple NASCAR drivers.
• Set the Guiness World Record in 2006 for the “World’s Largest Simultaneous Motorcycle Burnout” with 213 participating motorcycles.
Today, Smoky Mountain Harley-Davidson is the top Harley-Davidson dealer in Tennessee and is considered one of the top dealers in the Harley-Davidson network for sales, service and merchandise. What started as one dealership with 25 employees has grown to a family of three dealerships and three retail stores proudly serving East Tennessee with 250 employees and locations in Maryville, Pigeon Forge, Kodak, Gatlinburg, US-129 The Dragon and the Cherohala Skyway.
SMH-D is just one example of the many “hidden gems” that are impacting the region’s tourism efforts.
To learn more about Smoky Mountain Harley-Davidson, visit www.smh-d.com.

Have Small Kids with You? Check Out These 3 Hikes, Suitable for the Little Ones

Posted on August 22, 2018 by dstech - Blog, Smoky Mountains

The Great Smoky Mountains are truly a nature lover’s paradise, and the best way to explore this incredible area in Tennessee is on foot. One of the great things about Blount County is that there are plenty of day hiking trails that are ideal for the whole family, including the little ones. When you decide to take small children out for a hike, be sure you choose trails that are less strenuous, and pack plenty of snacks and water. Here are three of our favorite day hikes in the Smokies that are perfect for your little ones.
The Trail to Abrams Falls
The Abrams Falls trail starts out in Cades Cove and covers a total of 5.2 miles by the time you make the round trip. The cool thing about this trail is that it is listed as moderate in difficulty, which makes it perfect for most kids. You can even backpack the littlest members of your family if needed. Following the trail takes you across several footbridges until you reach the falls that drop 20 feet down a rocky slope. Be sure you prepare your kids for the few rougher areas of terrain you will encounter, then enjoy the many forms of wildlife you might be lucky enough to see on your hike, especially black bears.
The Schoolhouse Gap Trail
If you are a lover of wildflowers, you simply must take your family along the Schoolhouse Gap Trail during the spring months. Spring is the time of year when the incredible wildflowers that grow in the Smoky Mountains are at their peak beauty. Your kids will love this 3.8-mile trail with its gentle climb. The trail is perfect for toddlers and preschoolers just getting started on what may become a lifelong hobby. The trail runs along a creek, which, once it warms up, is an excellent place for your kids to cool off and splash around in. As you walk along, you can see glimpses of the mountain peaks through the trees.
The Maryville-Alcoa Greenway
If you prefer a paved trail, the Maryville-Alcoa Greenway may be just what you are looking for. It runs close to the city and winds its way through schools, shopping centers, parks, and places to stop for a picnic. There are lots of places to take a break from the trail, perfect for when your kids need something new to keep them occupied. The trail passes through vast expanses of greenery and over several tiny hills, which are sure to delight the younger members of your family as you walk along. This is the perfect hike for those who want to enjoy a nice walk without having to be out in the woods.
Blount County offers a number of hiking trails that meet the needs of hikers at all skill levels. They make a great way to get your family out in the fresh air and sunshine. Try different trails each time and experience all the Great Smoky Mountains and Blount County have to offer you and your family.

Here are 7 Reasons You'll Be Glad You're Visiting the Smokies this Fall

Posted on November 5, 2018 by dstech - Blog, Smoky Mountains

Are you already thinking about the autumn season and all of the fun and beauty it brings? If so, you might also be thinking of a visit to The Smokies. The autumn months are an amazing time of year, with the first colors showing up high in the mountains and slowly moving to the valleys below. The changing tree colors last for weeks and is the #1 reason to pay an autumn visit to the area.
Yet, there are many other reasons that millions of people visit the region, during the fall and all year long, but we’d like to remind you of seven great reasons you’ll be glad you made the choice to pay a visit this fall.
#2 The Weather
While the weather is cooling down quite quickly in the northern parts of the country, the fall months remain remarkably comfortable well into October. That means you can get outdoors without worrying about bundling up, wearing all kinds of rain gear or freezing your way through a day of hiking.
In fact, the weather is so pleasant that you can spend days and days outdoors, enjoying the National Park, visiting the attractions of the region or sitting back on a porch (cabin rentals are a great option for accommodations in the region) and savoring the scenery. Because many people associate October and November with cold weather, it is a time without crowds, but also a time of great conditions in the woods and town.
#3 The Food
Harvest season is always great no matter where you live, but in The Smokies, it is simply unforgettable. Apples, cider, any number of fruits and veggies, pies, different meats and, of course, the delicious spirits that are such a part of the history of the region all appear in food festivals and shops.
#4 And About Those Fairs and Festivals…
The autumn season is a great time for different festivals and events. While the farmers markets and other ongoing activities are still around, you can also enjoy the region’s Oktoberfest – which is a five-week event – as well as the street festivals of Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg.
#5 The Wildlife
With fewer crowds arriving in October, you’ll have a much greater chance at spotting wildlife whether from a car or on foot. This is the time of year when lots of visitors see everything from wild turkeys to full-grown bears fattened up for the winter. In Blount County, you’ll find that a stroll along the rivers and fields often means lots of rabbits nibbling up the last of the year’s greens.
#6 The Scenery
Not only do fewer crowds mean better chances at spotting wildlife, but the natural setting is also less crowded. You’ll enjoy lots of peace and quiet when you do any hiking, and this is most definitely the time of year to visit the different waterfalls and scenic overlooks, all set against the backdrop of beautiful, autumnal yellows, oranges, and reds.
#7 The Foothills Parkway, Clingmans Dome, and the Rest
There is little that will compare to the views of fall foliage and the beauty of the season than your visits to the many scenic spots. The drive along the Foothills Parkway, through Cades Cove, up to the top of Clingmans Dome, and even places like the Great Smoky Mountain Wheel or the Ober Gatlinburg, are all fantastic places to savor the scenery at this majestic time of year.

Hidden Treasures in the Peaceful Side

Posted on April 11, 2022 by Rachel Coffman - Blog

If you are a curious tourist, there are many unique hidden treasures in the Peaceful Side. While you’re visiting, don’t miss out on these local gems such as the Faerie Knoll, Rutherford’s Farm, the Townsend Abbey, Hot Rods 50’s Diner, and much more. See the full list below.

The Bird & The Book

Hours: 4:30pm – 10:00pm (Wed-Sat)

Address: 1509 E. Broadway Ave, Maryville, TN 37804

Quoted as “Blount County’s home of Counter Culture,” The Bird & The Book is a great place to find unity through diversity. This friendly neighborhood pub offers a fantastic menu, a variety of craft beers, and a wine list that won’t break the budget. Check out their Facebook page to see what’s on the calendar when you are in town. It could be a drag show, live music, a comedy show, trivia night, wrestling, community theater, or a book release…the possibilities are limitless.

The Bird and The Book Mural — The Bird and The Book

The Bird and The Book KFW Wrestling — The Bird and The Book

Richy Kreme Donuts

Address: 2601 E. Broadway Ave, Maryville, TN 37804

Hours: 6:00am – Donuts Run Out (Tues-Sat)

Ricky Kreme has been a staple in Blount County since 1939. Their doughnuts offer a variety of new flavor combinations, as well as everyone’s favorites, but you need to get there early because they don’t last long.

Townsend Abbey

Address: 7765 River Rd., Townsend, TN 37882

Hours: 11:00am – 10:00pm (Thurs-Sun)

Townsend Abbey is a renovated wedding chapel located on the Little River. Their outdoor seating area overlooks the river, allowing customers to watch tubers lazily float their summers away. Most weekends, the outside area offers entertainment like cornhole, Connect-4, and live music (cover free). They offer the finest local craft beers paired with pizza, sandwiches, small bites, and shareable medium plates. They also offer dinner specials each weekend and have been voted “Trip Advisor Top Ten Percent of Restaurants in the World” in 2020 and 2021. This hidden gem is the perfect stop for some refreshments after a day of hiking the Smokies.

Hot Rods 50’s Diner

Address: 373 Hannum St., Alcoa, TN 37701

Hours: Open Daily 11:00am – 9:00pm

Hot Rods is a throwback to simpler times, with its 50’s style decor, including neon lights, pinball machines, and superb service. This family-owned and operated diner offers over 80 different burgers cooked and prepared daily, including vegan options. Click here to see a full menu.

Smoky Mountain “Faerie Knoll“

Where: Hidden off of Twin Creek Trail

Twin Creek Trail is a reasonably easy 4.5-mile hike out and back and takes approximately 2 hours to complete. Unfortunately, because of our promise to the faeries, we can’t tell you exactly where their home is, so you’ll have to do a little exploring to find it.

Rutherford’s Farm | Pick Your Own

Address: 337 Mint Rd, Maryville, TN 37803

Hours: Produce available April – December (Mon-Sat)

Rutherford’s Farm started in 1976 with one produce field but has grown to four and offers some of the freshest produce available. They estimate strawberries will be ready to pick 3 to 4 days around April 20th. In addition to strawberries, their Spring season should have green onions, broccoli, cauliflower, green and purple cabbage, various lettuces, beets, zucchini, and yellow crook-neck squash. They also provide beans, tomatoes, and corn during the Summer season, and greens and sweet potatoes in the Fall. For more information, click on their name above for their Facebook page.

Studio 212

Address: 934 E. Broadway Ave, Maryville, TN 37804

Hours: By Appointment

If you are looking for something a little different on your trip to the Smokies, we recommend trying a pottery class. Studio 212 offers one-time Saturday classes called “Try A Pot,” allowing a spin at the pottery wheel. They also offer private parties where you create and take home one piece of handcrafted pottery. Private parties must include a minimum of 6 people but no more than 16. Click on their name above to get info to schedule classes before your visit.

Studio 212 Faerie House hand thrown pottery — Studio 212

Rocky Top Rage Room

Address: 1813 E. Broadway Ave, Maryville, TN 37801

Hours: By Appointment

Need a break from the family while visiting the Peaceful Side of the Smokies? Why not embrace your extreme side and get rid of some of that frustration by smashing things? Click on their name above and see which of their six Rage Packages fits your needs.

Rocky Top Rage Room smash in progress — Rocky Top Rage Room

Cades Cove Cellars

Address: 7126 E Lamar Alexander Pkwy, Townsend, TN 37882

Hours: – Thurs 10:00am – 5:00pm, Sat 10:00am – 6:00pm, &

Sun 11:00am – 5:00pm

Two generations of the Birkholz and Reed families founded Cades Cove Cellars, offering 80 years of combined experience in the winemaking industry. The team has been working together for 12 years, keeping fresh fruit and trusted recipes at the heart of their process. The tasting room was crafted with all local materials, and their hospitality offers a sense of home away from home. The very popular Icewater Springs is April’s wine of the month, which is a blend of locally grown Seyval Blanc grapes and sweet strawberries. Click on their name above for more information.

Cades Cove Cellar Spring Wine — Cades Cove Cellars

Cades Cove Cellars Tasting Room — Cades Cove Cellars

Birch & Twine

Address: 161 Painted Trillium Way, Townsend, TN 37882

Hours: Mon-Sat 10:00am – 5:00pm, Sun 1:00pm – 5:00pm

Birch & Twine is a fairly new addition to the Peaceful Side. They offer many unique gifts, allowing visitors to take a little piece of the Smoky Mountains home.

The Golden Age 1942

Address: 316 Court St, Maryville, TN 37804

Hours: Mon-Sat 11:00am – 8:00pm

The Golden Age 1942 is a comic book store for everyone. They stock comics of all types, host events to celebrate the genre, have a game room available for D&D adventures, and offer memorabilia of all kinds. This place is a must-do when you are in the area.

The Golden Age 1942

Hoo La La Vintage

Address: 564 N Foothills Plaza Dr, Maryville, TN 37801

Hours: Mon-Fri 10:00am – 5:30pm, Sat 10:00am – 4:00pm

Hoo La La Vintage started with three friends in a garage turning unloved pieces of furniture into one-of-a-kind treasures. And that’s what you will find, a unique gift and home décor destination that exemplifies the southern hospitality you expect from the Peaceful Side.

Hoo La La Vintage Easter home decor — Hoo La La Vintage

Hoo La La Vintage Showroom — Hoo La La Vintage

Bigfoot Popcorn

Address: 8215 TN Hwy 73, Townsend, TN 37882

Hours: Tues-Sat 11:00am – 5:00pm, Sun 1:00pm – 5:00pm

Bigfoot Popcorn is the brainchild of two high school friends, looking to make some money while still in college. Since Bigfoot is known to avoid crowds, it only makes sense that they made their home on the Peaceful Side. Try their signature flavor, Bigfoot Poop, when stopping in for a vintage soda or looking for their retro candy selection.

Bigfoot Popcorn overlooking Smoky Mountains — Bigfoot Popcorn

Bigfoot Popcorn T-Shirt — Bigfoot Popcorn

The Shoppes at Homespun

Address: 1410 Sevierville Rd, Maryville, TN 37804

Hours: Mon-Sat 10:00am – 6:00pm, Sun 1:00om -6:00pm

Located in the Old Cherokee Lumber Company, this nostalgic building with its different angles, beams, and open structural layout was the perfect location. The Shoppes at Homespun creates an ideal home for the wonderful vintage and country primitives, antiques, and home decor found inside.

The Shoppes at Homespun Spring Showroom — The Shoppes at Homespun

The Shoppes at Homespun Maryville location — The Shoppes at Homespun

For more exciting things to do, check out a few upcoming events in the Peaceful Side of the Smokies.

Bigfoot in the Smokies

Hops in the Hills

Taste of Blount

Highlands in the Foothills: Smoky Mountains Scottish Festival

Posted on June 4, 2015 by dstech - Activities, Blog, Events, Smoky Mountains

Maryville College plays host to the annual Smoky Mountain Scottish Festival and Games every May. The home of the fighting Scots seems an appropriate venue for this event, although many of the attendants would say that pairing the words “fighting” and “Scots” is entirely redundant.
The festivities commenced on Friday night at the opening gala. People traveled from various states to be present, many having done so for as long as 20 years, and wear the tartans of their clans. This event celebrated the history and culture of the Scots who came through Wilmington, North Carolina, and settled in this area. Their descendants remained intimately connected with their heritage, and for many these games served as a family reunion.
The gala set the tone for the weekend, combining levity and gravity. Robert Valentine, this year’s compére or Master of Ceremonies, invited laughter with jokes about Scottish temperaments, as well as reverence with reminders of Scottish courage and innovation. Later the haggis was marched in, led by the piper and followed by the armed guard, and blessed by a recitation of Robert Burns’ “Address to a Haggis.” And of course the evening would not be complete without a whiskey toast.
A theme of the night, and the whole weekend, was the importance of cultural heritage. A person may belong to many histories and cultures, and there is joy and strength in celebrating them (in this case particularly if one of them is Scottish). With the ease of connectivity nowadays, actively pursuing one’s roots or engaging with other cultures has never been more readily possible or desirable.
As he spoke, the Chief of Clan Skene, the honored clan of this year’s Smoky Mountain games, expressed his hope that Scottish Americans would not limit their political interests to their country of residence; he wanted very much for the Scots across the pond to take an active interest in contemporary Scotland. And the invitation to connection and possibility was not restricted by genealogy. As Robert Valentine said in his address, “If you’re at the Scottish games this weekend, you’re Scots. Welcome home.”
On Saturday, the games opened to the public. Most people showed up in their kilts, but those that didn’t have one need not worry—there are plenty for sale. Food was even more plentiful. For those who’ve never tasted Scottish treats like haggis or deep-fried Snickers, this was the chance to do so. The bakery tent was especially busy, as was the beer tent. Clans had set up stands where visitors could come and learn about their families, and some have even been known to “adopt.”
At noon, massed bands of pipes and drums officially opened the Scottish games. This was truly a sight and sound to behold. Dozens of bagpipes accompanied by snares and basses: there’s just nothing else like it. As they played and marched with the Smokies in the background, these musicians brought the Highlands to the foothills.
Other exceptional exhibits include sheepdog demonstrations and, of course, the sports. Both were displays of incredible dedication. Everything at the Scottish games was remarkable, but one event that was especially outstanding was the caber toss. Athletes lifted an enormous tapered pole and launched it into the air. The goal was to have the top of the caber rotate to land on the ground, and it was clearly extremely difficult.

History Buffs Love Learning the History of the Smokies at Cades Cove

Posted on August 3, 2018 by dstech - Activities, Blog, Smoky Mountains

Cades Cove is one of the most visited parts of America’s most visited national park, but there’s more going on in these Tennessee woods than breathtaking natural beauty. Visitors to the Cove with a taste for history will get more than their fair share when they experience the famous Cades Cove loop for themselves.
How to Do the Loop
Cades Cove is a wide valley famous for its wildlife viewing, and it’s also one of the most accessible ways to experience a national park. No hiking is necessary; visitors can drive an 11-mile, one-way loop road through the park, and pull off at certain points to stretch their legs and experience the Cove. It takes from 2 to 4 hours to make it through the Cades Cove Loop in a car, but bikers and pedestrians have the loop road all to themselves on Wednesdays and Saturdays before 10 AM, and so they won’t be slowed down by traffic.
Look Out for the Locals
Cades Cove isn’t just popular with people; animals like white-tailed deer, black bears, coyotes, ground hogs, and wild turkeys also love the valley. Foxes and even the occasional beaver also make the region their home. The hiking trails nearby, like the trail to Abrams Falls or to Rocky Top, offer even better chances to see some animals in action, since they are less likely to be spooked by crowds. Birders will want to keep their eyes peeled for Great Blue and Green Herons, as well as Golden Eagles and American Kestrels.
Check Out the Architecture
Cades Cove was settled by Europeans beginning in the 1820s, and some of their architecture is still standing. Pioneer life in early Appalachia wasn’t easy, and the buildings reflect that. The John Oliver cabin, built in 1822, is sturdy and still stands, as do a number of churches from the mid-1800s, and other 19th– and early 20th-century pioneer cabins and outbuildings.
Cades Cove is also famous for the John Cable Grist Mill, which features the typical mill wheel. The mill actually still works; Cades Cove visitors can watch grain being ground, and then purchase the results at the Cades Cove Visitors Center (along with various jams, jellies, and locally-made trinkets). How’s that for a taste of history?
Take in History, Step by Step
One of the great things about Cades Cove is how visiting these buildings in the Tennessee woods feels like stepping directly into the past. Make sure to stop at the Cades Cove Visitor Center for trail maps and historical information to give you all the context you need to fully appreciate your visit, and don’t procrastinate about taking your trip to see Cades Cove. Even history buffs shouldn’t wait forever!

Holiday Craft Markets on the Peaceful Side

Posted on November 14, 2025 by bpintern - Blog, Uncategorized

Written by: Emily Huffstetler

Whether you’re hunting for a gift from the heart, a new ornament for the tree or just a little extra holiday cheer, local makers have you covered. Here’s a preview of holiday markets on the Peaceful Side.

November 15 – Maryville Farmers’ Market Holly Day Market

The Maryville Farmers’ Market wraps up the 2025 season with the Holly Day Market at Founders Square in downtown Maryville. From 8:30 to 11:30 a.m., you’ll find late-fall produce, baked goods, specialty foods and booths stocked with ornaments, artwork and other handmade gifts. This is the final market of the year.

November 15 – Holiday Handcrafters Fair

*^{Photo: Great Smoky Mountains Heritage Center}*

The Great Smoky Mountains Heritage Center in Townsend hosts the Holiday Handcrafters Fair from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Artisans will set up across the grounds with pottery, textiles, fine art and seasonal pieces, all made in the region. Admission is free, and shoppers can wander through the marketplace at their own pace.

November 29 – Downtown Maryville Holiday Market

*^{Photo: Downtown Maryville Holiday Market}*

On Small Business Saturday, the Downtown Maryville Holiday Market fills Broadway Avenue with more than 150 artisan booths. Beginning at 10 a.m., shoppers can walk the length of downtown and browse everything from jewelry and woodwork to candles and Christmas décor. Families can also look for “Candy Cane Lane,” a row of free children’s activities along the street.

December 4–6 – Santa Mouse Christmas House Arts & Crafts Show and Sale

The Santa Mouse Christmas House returns to Dotson Memorial Baptist Church in Maryville for a three-day sale organized by the Blount County Arts and Crafts Guild. Over 50 artists and craftsmen bring jewelry, wood pieces, textiles, home décor and holiday items. Hours run 10 a.m.–5 p.m. on Thursday and Friday and 10 a.m.–3 p.m. on Saturday.

December 6 – Foothills Holiday Market

The Foothills Holiday Market marks its 10th year at Smithview Pavillion in Maryville. From 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., vendors set up indoors and out with handmade gifts, seasonal décor and food items. It’s a small, single-day market that works well for wrapping up holiday shopping close to home.

Make Your Own Holiday Gifts

If you have the time, why not get a little crafty yourself? Here are some upcoming holiday classes where you can make a gift yourself—or sit down with someone you love and create something together.

Louisville Mercantile

November 16 – Traditional Holiday Wreath, 2–4 p.m.
November 20 – Holiday Bow Making, 5:30–7:30 p.m.

Creative Spark Studio

November 15 – Watercolor Card Class: Bear and Cardinal, 12:30–3 p.m.
November 21 – Wood Burning: Cardinal Ornaments (Set of 3), 5:30–7:30 p.m.
November 28 – Needle-Felted Ornaments, 12:30–3 p.m. and 5:30–7:30 p.m.
November 29 – Needle-Felted Ornaments, 12:30–3 p.m.
December 5 – Watercolor Christmas Card, 1–3:30 p.m. and 5–7:30 p.m.
December 11 – Needle-Felt Snowman Class, 2–4:30 p.m.
December 12 – Needle-Felt Snowman Class, 5:30–8 p.m.
December 13 – Collage Christmas Card, 12:30–3 p.m. and 5–7:30 p.m.

Studio 212

November 23 – Reindeer, 2–4 p.m.
November 23 – Santa Gnome, 4:30–6 p.m.
November 30 – Winter Village Apothecary, 3–6 p.m.
December 13 – Snowman Mug, 2–4 p.m.
December 14 – Santa’s Milk and Cookies Set, 2–4 p.m.

Great Smoky Mountains Heritage Center

November 17 – Holiday Herbals Class with Herbalist Debbie Dickie, 10:15 a.m.–12:45 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.

Hops in the Hills craft beer fest gets a boost from MC student brewers

Posted on June 21, 2022 by jmuir - Uncategorized

They’re currently stored in the cool confines of Dr. Nathan Duncan’s basement, but on Saturday, June 25, eight brews created by Maryville College students will be available for sampling by roughly 1,000 attendees of a craft beer festival.

The annual event, known as Hops in the Hills and held in downtown Maryville, is part of the City of Maryville’s annual Summer on Broadway extravaganza and will include over two dozen professional breweries — along with sample pours from Duncan’s “EXP200: Introduction to Brewing” course that the professor of chemistry launched in 2018.

“For this, we have about eight different beers we’re bringing, and almost all of them are student recipes,” said Duncan, who took the beer home with him during recent summer renovations to the College’s Sutton Science Center. “Two are my recipes, including the Irish red ale we brewed earlier this year for the Choir of Man show at the Clayton Center, and I brewed my brown ale this year for it as well. Those are the only two that aren’t student recipes.

“The rest are all from this class except for one, and it’s from an alumnus who took the class in 2020. In addition to students from this year’s class that are working as volunteers for Hops in the Hills, I have students that go back to the very first time we offered it in 2018 who are coming this year as well. A lot of Maryville College alumni will make up the volunteers for this event, and I’m really excited from the standpoint that a lot of them took the class before it was even a part of Hops in the Hills.

“To see how much this little class has grown as far as really becoming a part of our regional craft brew scene is exciting,” he added.

Duncan offers the course every spring and has room for roughly 20 to 24 students. It’s an upper-level class for students 21 and older that focuses on the brewing process, and because beer can be fermented under pressure and turned around in as little as two weeks depending on the style, there’s ample opportunity to try various creations and concoctions.

And some of them, he added, succeed beyond anyone’s expectations, including his own.

“The beer I’m most excited about is one that was created by Becca Roberson ’22 that’s supposed to be a beer that has all of the components or nuances of an Old Fashioned cocktail,” he said. “It’s a porter-style beer that’s aged with some oak, some bourbon, some cherry and also with some orange peel. It’s one she made early in the semester, and it tasted really good. Now that it’s been aging for a while, it should be even better. As soon as we tried it, I told everyone, ‘We’re saving this for Hops in the Hills.’”

In addition to Roberson’s creation — for which she’s designed its own logo — and Duncan’s ales, some of the other brewing class offerings for Hops in the Hills include an imperial stout and for those who find the overly hoppy flavor of stouts and ales off-putting, there’s the brew by alum Sawyer Cradit ’20: a “margarita beer,” according to Duncan.

“It’s kind of a sour wheat style, very low on the hops,” Duncan said. “With this, he was making a beer that used sour mash barley, a lot of wheat to give it kind of the haziness and a little bit of sweetness, and the hops that he used were a New Zealand variety that adds kind of a lime flavor to it.”

Hops in the Hills, Duncan added, is the latest in a busy schedule of events for which his students have brewed beer. (Because their brews are not sold, and the class operates as a homebrewing club, they’re not required to obtain a license to serve it.) In addition to the Blount County Alumni Association’s annual spring barbecue and the aforementioned Choir of Man performance, MC beer was recently served at the banquet celebrating the end of KT Days, and Duncan addressed the assembled alumni about the course, and its plans for the future.

“We have some things in the works that we hope will formalize this class, meaning that it will eventually be replaced with a four-hour class,” he said. “What we’re doing now would be considered the lab part of the class, while it will also include a lot more deep-dive lectures, and we’ve talked with several folks in the brewing industry in our region who are interested in partnering with us for on-site and external internships.”

How to Spend Father’s Day Weekend on the Peaceful Side

Posted on June 19, 2026 by bpintern - Blog

Written by: Emily Huffstetler

It’s not too late to make Father’s Day plans on the Peaceful Side of the Smokies. Whether you’re building a full weekend around Dad or choosing one special outing, here are two itineraries to inspire you.

Townsend Father’s Day Itinerary

A Father’s Day weekend in Townsend can be as simple as a morning hike, lunch in town and a relaxed afternoon activity. You can stay overnight or make it a day trip.

Start the day with a hike. For something short, take the 0.8-mile roundtrip trail to Look Rock Tower off the Foothills Parkway. It leads to panoramic mountain views.

For a longer hike, try Middle Prong Trail. Indian Flats Falls is about 8.3 miles round trip, but the trail works well with a shorter turnaround point. Lynn Camp Prong Cascades is about 0.7 miles from the trailhead, making it an easier option before lunch in Townsend.

There are several restaurants in town to choose from. Peaceful Side Social has outdoor seating and a menu with options for the whole family.

Cades Cove Golf is just down the road. The new miniature golf course brings the feel of a traditional course to a smaller scale, with mountain views and a different challenge at each hole. It opens at noon on Saturdays and 2 p.m. on Sundays.

If you’re staying at Little Arrow Outdoor Resort, the annual Father’s Day weekend cornhole tournament runs Saturday, June 20, from 1 to 3 p.m. You can book it as an add-on when you reserve your stay.

Later in the day, stop by Company Distilling. For Father’s Day weekend, the Townsend location is offering etched bottles of Straight Bourbon Whiskey Finished with Maple Wood, plus a buy-one, get-one-half-off special on that product, excluding cask strength.

You can also reserve the Fill Your Own Bottle experience. Guests take part in a premium guided tasting, then fill, cork, seal and sign their own 750ml bottle from the barrel. The current release is an 8-Year Single Barrel Wheated Bourbon. The experience costs $139.99 per person and lasts about 60 to 90 minutes. It’s open to guests 21 and older with valid ID.

Stick around for live music. The Grassroots Gringos are performing on Saturday from 6 to 8 p.m. If you’re visiting with kids or anyone under 21, Townsend Abbey is another option for dinner and live music. Perry Bonck performs Saturday from 6:30 to 9 p.m.

If you’re staying overnight, let Sunday move slower. Grab brunch or an early lunch at Townsend Abbey, which is open for Father’s Day from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. If the Fill Your Own Bottle experience at Company Distilling or a round at Cades Cove Golf didn’t fit into the day before, both can work as Sunday options before heading home. You could also take a walk along the Townsend River Walk & Arboretum by the Little River.

Maryville Father’s Day Itinerary

*^{Photo courtesy of Creative Spark Studio.}*

In Maryville, Father’s Day weekend can include a hands-on activity, live music, brunch and a new indoor golf experience at Greenway Village.

Creative Spark Studio offers Blacksmithing Basics with Bryan on Saturday, June 20. Classes run from 1 to 3 p.m. and 3 to 5 p.m. Book in advance to make a marshmallow roaster with Dad. The class is recommended for ages 18 and older, or 16 and older with a guardian.

After class, stay out for dinner or live music. Cats Away performs at Peaceful Side Brewery on Saturday from 6 to 9 p.m. For a later night, Two Doors Down has a Throwback party from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m.

On Sunday, Maryville has several Father’s Day brunch options. Daisy’s Non-alcoholic Bar and Bottle Shop is hosting theirs from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. The all-ages event includes games and a pool table. Dads get their first drink free.

Raven Steakhouse is also hosting Father’s Day brunch. The special menu includes shrimp and grits, biscuits and sausage gravy, smoked salmon, beef tenderloin, pancakes, pastries and more. Brunch is $55 and requires advance reservation.

*_{^{Photo courtesy of The FoxHole Golf Club.}}*

End the weekend at The FoxHole Golf Club in Greenway Village. The new indoor golf club uses Trackman-powered simulators, giving players a high-tech place to practice, play world-class courses and track their stats. Book tee times through the website. Children must be 13 and older.

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. She holds a Master of Science in Conservation Education from Mississippi State University.