Discover the Top 10 Summer Events in Gatlinburg

As the weather heats up, so does the event calendar in Gatlinburg. So, if you’re ready to make the most of those warm summer days, here’s your guide to the top events you absolutely can’t miss.

From gorgeous firefly displays to a songwriter’s festival to remember, the summer lineup has a little something for everyone. Let’s take a look!

May 23^rd – August 10^th: United Tastes of America at Anakeesta

You’re in for a treat at Anakeesta’s brand-new United Tastes of America festival running from May 23^rd through August 10^th. This culinary adventure lets you sample your way across the country without ever leaving the Smoky Mountains.

You’ll get to nosh on regional specialties from New England clam chowder and Tex-Mex favorites to Southern comfort cuisine and Pacific Northwest seafood. It’s like taking a cross-country road trip for your taste buds.  

Early June: Synchronous Fireflies at Elkmont

Want to see something truly magical this summer? The synchronous fireflies at Elkmont put on a show like nothing you’ve ever seen. They come out in late May or early June, lighting up the forest in a dazzling display of twinkling lights.

Here’s the deal though: This event is super popular, so you’ll need to win a lottery just to get in. Keep an eye out in early April when the park announces the 2025 dates and opens the lottery. It’ll cost you just a buck to apply, and if you’re one of the lucky ones, you’ll only pay $24 for a parking pass.

July 1^st – 31^st: Smoky Mountain Tunes and Tales

Go on a stroll through downtown Gatlinburg any evening in July and you’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time. Smoky Mountain Tunes and Tales brings history to life right on the streets with performers in period costumes dating back to the 1800s.

The excitement happens from 6 to 10 pm daily, with musicians, storytellers, and artisans galore showing off their talents. Be sure to get in on the action by requesting songs, learning dance steps, and asking questions about mountain history wherever you go.

July 3^rd: Annual 4^th of July Midnight Parade

If you want to kick off America’s birthday in style, there’s no better place to go than Gatlinburg’s annual 4^th of July Midnight Parade. Find your spot after dark on July 4^th anywhere along the parade route, stretching down Baskins Creek Bypass and beyond.

Then, watch in awe as spectacular floats, patriotic marching bands, and giant balloons delight the crowds. Be sure to bring your own chair, snacks, and a blanket so you can stay cozy and warm from beginning to end. 

July 4^th: 4^th of July Drone Show & Fireworks Finale

If you’re looking for the perfect spot to cap off your Independence Day celebrations, jet on over to the Gatlinburg Space Needle at around 9 pm on July 4^th. This year’s spectacle is bigger and better than ever, featuring an impressive 200-drone show (double last year’s count) beginning around 9:50 pm. Then, at 10 pm sharp, fireworks will illuminate the night’s sky, perfectly framing the Space Needle against the mountain skyline. 

July 4^th: Gatlinburg River Raft Regatta

Feeling competitive? Consider signing up for the Gatlinburg River Raft Regatta. This event transforms the Little Pigeon River into a racetrack for unmanned floating creations of all kinds. 

You’re welcome to bring your own creative watercraft for free or rent a rubber duck for $2 apiece. Show up around 11 am, so you’re ready to launch at 1 pm. Then, stick around for the awards ceremony afterward to see who snags the treasure, duck, and most creative float awards.

July 11^th – 20^th: Gatlinburg Craftsmen’s Fair

If you love handmade treasures, you won’t want to miss the Gatlinburg Craftsmen’s Fair running from July 11^th through the 20^th at the Convention Center. Open daily from 10 am to 5 pm, this event brings together more than 200 artisans from across the country.

You’ll find everything from handcrafted jewelry and pottery to copper art, homemade candies, and so much more. In addition to selling their wares, many artisans will demonstrate their craft right before your very eyes so you can see how the magic happens.

July 26^th: Smoky Mountain Bigfoot Conference

Are you curious about cryptids? Get on over to the 7^th annual Smoky Mountain Bigfoot Conference for the inside scoop. Set to run from 9 am to 6 pm on July 26^th, this event invites you to immerse yourself in all things Sasquatch.

Throughout the day, you’ll hear fascinating presentations from Bigfoot experts who share evidence, experience, and theories about these elusive forest creatures. Between talks, browse vendor booths offering everything from Bigfoot t-shirts to research equipment.

July 31^st – August 2^nd: Gatlinburg Square and Round Dance Convention

Dust off your dancing shoes for the 50^th Gatlinburg Square and Round Dance Convention happening July 31^st through August 2^nd. Located at the W.L. Mills Conference Center, this event boasts a fantastic lineup that’ll have you twirling across the floor.

Over 70 talented callers, cuers, and instructors will lead the way across all seven halls. Every hall has wood flooring, so you can focus on mastering the steps while dancing comfortably all day long. At the end of each day, stop by the Live Band Hall to show off your moves with your newfound friends.

August 15^th – 16^th: Gatlinburg Songwriter’s Festival

The Gatlinburg Songwriter’s Festival brings the heart of Nashville to the Smokies on August 15^th and 16^th. The Historic Gatlinburg Inn sets the perfect stage for this intimate two-day event featuring some of Nashville’s most talented songwriters. 

Unlike typical concerts, you’ll get the hear the stories behind your favorite hits directly from the creative minds who penned them. So, bring your notebook and prepare to be inspired.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a Smoky Mountain regular, these summer events provide the perfect backdrop for creating lasting memories with friends and family. So pack your sunscreen, bring your camera, and get ready to experience why summer in Gatlinburg is simply unforgettable.