Between Dolly Parton’s hometown pride and the natural beauty that surrounds it, Sevierville has always known how to draw a crowd. But this summer’s lineup of events might just outdo everything that came before. So, grab your planner and get ready to find your perfect Smoky Mountain adventure. Here are some summertime events you won’t want to miss.
June 7th: Kickoff to Summer Pop Up Market
Want to shop your heart out? Swing by the Kickoff to Summer Pop Up Market at the charming Sunflower Barn in nearby Danridge on June 7th. You can browse goods from over 40 vendors from 10 am to 6 pm while enjoying tasty treats from the food trucks.
This free event has everything from handmade jewelry to local artisan foods. Don’t miss the giveaways throughout the day. Though it costs nothing to attend, bring your wallet to take home whatever treasures you find.
June 7th & 8th: Smallmouth King Bass Tournament
Calling all fishing enthusiasts! The Smallmouth King Bass Tournament is back for another year, running through the weekend of June 7th and 8th. Competitors from all across the region will gather at Douglas Lake and the French Broad River in hopes of winning prizes.
Test your skills while fishing from the shore or a kayak—or simply stop by to catch all the action while cheering from the sidelines. If you just plan to spectate, bring a chair, cooler, and binoculars to stay comfy while watching the excitement unfold.
June 13th & 14th: Mountain Moonshine Classic
Rev up your engines for the Mountain Moonshine Classic on June 13th and 14th at the Smoky Mountain Speedway. At this event, you’ll get to see super late model racing take over the dirt track for two days of high-octane excitement.
Want the full experience? Grab a pit pass. For just a bit more than general admission, you get up-close access to the cars, drivers, and crews as they prepare for battle.
June 14th – August 3rd: Smoky Mountain Summer Celebration
Ready for Dollywood magic? Mark your calendars for the Smoky Mountain Summer Celebration from June 14th through August 3rd. During that time, the park transforms with longer hours and special seasonal entertainment, like the nightly Wildwood Grove Dance Party. The Gazillion Bubble Show is an absolute must-see, as is the fireworks and drone show capping off each night. Swing by the food vendors, too, so you can sample s’mores funnel cakes, strawberry cheesecake milkshakes, and so much more.
June 21st: A Wheely Good Time Rally
You’re invited to join the Wheely Good Time Rally on June 21st. Just pilot your favorite ride over to the Douglas Dam by 10 am to join your fellow automotive enthusiasts on a scenic cruise.
All vehicles are welcome, from classic cars to modern motorcycles and everything in between. You’ll wind through some of East Tennessee’s most beautiful back roads before pulling into Tennessee Jacks in Morristown for a friendly lunch with your new road trip buddies.
July 3rd: Rocket City Trash Pandas Throwback Night
You’re in for a nostalgic treat at Toyota Field on July 3rd. The Rocket City Trash Pandas will sport classic pinstripe uniforms for their special Independence Eve Game. Plus, you get to enjoy excellent deals on hot dogs and drinks all evening long.
Between innings, catch live music by Electric Rock Porch. And be sure to stick around after the final out for an incredible Independence Eve fireworks show.
July 8th: Drums Across the Smokies
On July 8th, Drums Across the Smokies will bring heart-pounding excitement to Lon C. Burchfield Stadium at Sevier County High School. Eight world-class drum teams go head-to-head to showcase their talent and showmanship.
Gates open at 6:30 pm, so you’ll have time to find the perfect seat before the competition heats up. You can enjoy snacks from the concession stand and buy souvenirs between performances. Stay until 9:30 pm to see who takes home top honors.
July 18th – 20th: Tumbler Invasion Crafting Convention
If you want to get your craft on, set your sights on the Tumbler Invasion Crafting Convention from July 18th through the 20th. You’ll find everything from hands-on workshops to a marketplace filled with unique supplies you can’t find anywhere else.
The event kicks off at 9 am each day, giving you plenty of time to explore, buy, and make to your heart’s content. Be sure to sign up for the contests happening all weekend to bring home event swag, crafting supplies, and more.
August 8th – 10th: The Sparks Show
Gearheads, mark your calendars for August 8th through 10th when The Sparks Show returns to the Sevier County Fairgrounds for its 12th big year. You only have a few months to finish your latest projects so you can roll out your ride for its big summertime debut.
Once there, you can spend the weekend admiring cars and trucks galore while enjoying delicious food from the fairground vendors. The limbo competition promises to delight, with competitors pushing their vehicles to show just how low they can go.
August 15th: Great Smoky Mountain Hot Air Balloon Festival
Looking for the perfect way to cap off your summer? Head to Townsend on August 15th for the Great Smoky Mountain Hot Air Balloon Festival. You’ll be mesmerized as professional balloonists create a kaleidoscope of colors across the stunning Tennessee skyline. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even experience the thrill of a tethered balloon ride, giving you a taste of flight while staying safely connected to the ground.
Whether you’re going to the pop-up market or saving your trip for the Hot Air Balloon Festival, Sevierville promises to deliver a summer to remember. As you plan your visit, consider making a weekend of it. With so many accommodations ranging from cozy cabins to family-friendly hotels, you can wake up to mountain views and spend your days hopping between activities without the rush.
