TRAVEL GUIDE TO BRYSON CITY AND THE GREAT SMOKY MOUNTAINS

THINGS TO DO IN THE SMOKIES

Highlights of the
Bryson City and Great
Smokies Events Calendar

For more information about musical performances in the area, click here.

February
Chocolate Cookoff
Be My Valentine Charlie Brown Train

March
Bank of America US Whitewater Open
Area Wedding Expo

April
Green Thumb Day
Knobscorcher Bike Race

May
West Swain VFD Bass Tournament
Strawberry Jam
Twelve Hours of Tsali
Heritage Festival

June
Music in the Mountains Series
Cherokee Voices Festival
PIoneer Weekend on the Train
Women's Work Festival (GSMNP)

July
Music in the Mountains Series
Freedom Fest
Festival of Native Peoples
Folkmoot
Dinosaur Train

August
Music in the Mountains Series
Childrens Fishing Derby

September
Music in the Mountains Series
Horace Kephart Days
Freestyle Kayaking World Cup
Railfest & Mountain Craft Fair
SE Tribes Celebration
Mountain Life Festival (GSMNP)

October
Music in the Mountains Series
Cherokee Indian Fair
Stecoah Harvest Festival
Maple Leaf Festival
Bryson City Chili Cookoff
Downtown Trick or Treat

November
The Polar Express
WNC Pottery Festival
Mountain Shapes & Colors

December
The Polar Express
Breakfast with Santa
Christmas Parade
Spirit of Christmas

Monthly Calendar of Events in Bryson City and the
Great Smoky Mountains of North Carolina

Use the mini calendar on the right to bring up the events on an upcoming month or specific date.

Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec

Mingus Mill Demonstrations
Date(s): Mar 16, 2013 - May 15, 2013
When: Daily, 9:00am-5:00pm
Where: Mingus Mill

Enjoy see how people in the past were able to grind up gain and other food products to use them in the food.

Mountain Farm
Date(s): Mar 16, 2013 - May 15, 2013
When: Daily, Dawn to dusk
Where: Oconaluftee Visitor Center

Walk down to the farm for a glimpse into the past. Self-guiding tour that are always avaible and some days you may find demonstrations such as blacksmiths, hearth cooking, gardening, or weaving taking place.

A Time to Remember
Date(s): May 01, 2013 - May 31, 2013
When: 7:00pm-9:00pm
Where: Fontana Village

A celebration to honor the people of Western North Carolina who gave up their homes, land and way of life so that World War II could be won. Hosted by Fontana Village Resort, The Proctor Revival Organization and GREAT (Graham Revitalization Economic Action Team). As we wrap up a Time to Remember month, join us in the dance hall at Fontana Village Resort on May 25th, 2013 from 7:00pm – 9:00pm and and bring the 50's to life. The "Asheville Gentlemen" a 7 piece Swing Band will be performing. They will be joined by the Kennesaw State University Swing Dance Association on Sat. night. Join in the fun by taking part in beginners swing dance instruction both Fri. and Sat. prior to the Asheville Gentlemen. Friday's schedulewill be from 7:00pm to 9:00pm with instuction and cd's.

Music Jam
Date(s): May 02, 2013
When: 6:00 pm - 7:30 pm
Where: Marianna Black Library

Come experience  the sounds of local musicians as they demonstrate their talents. Have a guitar, banjo, mandolin, fiddle, dulcimer - anything unplugged - and want to play, please come! Larry Barnett of Grandpa's Music in Bryson City facilitates the jams. Want additional information about this or other programs offered at the Marianna Black Library, please click here or call 828-488-2382.

Tailgate Farmers Market
Date(s): May 03, 2013
When: 9:00 am - 1 pm
Where: Main Street, Bryson City

You'll find locally grown produce and other edibles, plants, flowers, crafts and more at the market. Every Friday, May - October. Parking lot next to the old courthouse on Main Street.

Oconaluftee River Trail Treasures
Date(s): May 03, 2013
When: 2:00 pm
Where: Oconaluftee Visitor Center

Ever wonder what treasures can be found in the Smokies? Every trail has something to offer each visitor of Great Smoky Mountain Park. Come discover what this trail has to offer you this spring.

Coffee With a Ranger
Date(s): May 04, 2013
When: 10:00 am
Where: Porch of the Oconaluftee visitor Center

Join a Ranger for a cup of coffee and find out what's happening in the Park! Coffee Provided. Bring a cup if you have one.

Hike: The Mountains-to- Sea Trail day in the Smokies
Date(s): May 04, 2013
When: 10:00 am to 12:00 pm
Where: Mingus Creek Trail

Hike a section of the Mountain-to-Sea Trail with author danny berstein and learn about this trail that begins at Clingmans Dome and ends at the ocean's edge at he North Carolina coast. This is a moderatly strenuous hike of four miles round trip. Meet at the Mingus Mill parking area.

Talk: The Mountain-to-Sea Trail Day in the Smokies
Date(s): May 04, 2013
When: 1:00 pm
Where: Porch of the Oconaluftee Visitor Center

The Mountain-to-Sea Trail begins at Clingmans Dome and ends at eh ocean's edge at eh North Carolina coast. Author Danny Berstein has hiked the entire 1,00 miles and will share stories that will captivate the curious, adventurous, hiker, biker, and history and culture buff. After her 45 minutes presentation, she will be answering questions and signing books.

Derby Fest
Date(s): May 04, 2013
When: 5:30 pm
Where: Relia's Garden at NOC

Watch the Kentucky Derby, bid on new and exciting silent auction items, wear a unique hat and win the hat contest. Cash bar - food - live jazz music.  Presented by the Swain County Community Foundation. To keep up with the event news check out our Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/events/570868052934193/  or http://swainderbyfest.brownpapertickets.com/

Tsali Demo Day
Date(s): May 04, 2013
When: 10:00 am to 4:00 pm
Where: Tsali Recreation Area.

Come out and test a bike as well as check out the new products. To test a bike you must have a driver's license and credit card to test ride demo bikes. Check us out on online at http://www.brysoncitybicycles.com/ or call us at 828-488-1988.

Tsali Demo Day
Date(s): May 04, 2013
When: 4 pm to 7 pm
Where: Natahala Village

Come and enjoy free samplings for Oskar Blues. Food and additional beverages avaible for purchase. Contact us at 828-488-1988 and online at http://www.brysoncitybicycles.com/.

 

Annual West Swain Volunteer Fire Dept. Bass Tournament
Date(s): May 04, 2013
When: 7:00 am
Where: Almond Boat Park

$100 entry fee per boat (2 fishermen per boat) includes launch and BBQ lunch. First place takes home $1500 based on combined weight of maximum 5 fish. Cash prizes awarded through 10th place. Additional prize for the biggest fish. You can pick up an entry form and regulations at Almond Boat Park, Smoky Mountain Lakes Marina, Smoky Mountain Bait & Tackle and Clampitt's Ace Hardware. $1 tickets will be available for a raffle of a variety of items.

Herman's Hermits Starring Peter Noone
Date(s): May 04, 2013
When: 7:30 pm
Where: Smoky Mountain Center for the Performing Arts in Franklin

At the age of fifteen, Peter achieved international fame as "Herman", lead singer of the legendary Sixties pop band Herman's Hermits. His classic hits included: "I'm Into Something Good" "Mrs. Brown, you've Got A Lovely Daughter", "I'm Henry VIII, I Am", "Silhouettes", "Can't You Hear My Heartbeat", "Just A Little Bit Better", "Wonderful World", "There's A Kind of Hush", and "Dandy". More info

Return of the Elk
Date(s): May 07, 2013
When: 5:00pm
Where: Cataloochee Valley, Rough Fork Trailhead

Come enjoy a guided hike to the elk acclomation pen and explore how, when, and why the elk were returned to the Smokies.

Tailgate Farmers Market
Date(s): May 10, 2013
When: 9:00 am - 1:00 pm
Where: Main Street, Bryson City

You'll find locally grown produce and other edibles, plants, flowers, crafts and more at the market. Every Friday, May - October. Parking lot next to the old courthouse on Main Street.

Oconaluftee River Trail Treasures
Date(s): May 10, 2013
When: 2:00 pm
Where: Oconaluftee Visitor Center

Ever wonder what treasures can be found in the Smokies? Every trail has something to offer each visitor of Great Smoky Mountain Park. Come discover what this trail has to offer you this spring.

12 Hours of Tsali
Date(s): May 11, 2013
When: 11:00 AM
Where: Tsali Recreation area, Hwy 28 N. Bryson City, Nc

Annual off road bicycle race (mountain bike) on some of the most famous trails in the Eastern US. Solo and team relay format. www.goneriding.com 

 

Coffee With a Ranger
Date(s): May 11, 2013
When: 10:00 am
Where: Porch of the Visitor Center

Join a Ranger for a cup of coffee and find out what's happening in the Park! Coffee Provided. Bring a cup if you have one.

Josh Turner
Date(s): May 11, 2013
When: 7:30 pm
Where: Harrah's Cherokee Event Center

One of country music’s most recognizable hit-makers earning numerous CMA, ACM and GRAMMY nominations since the release of his debut album, Long Black Train, Josh Turner has sold more than five million albums and garnered four No. 1 hits: "Your Man," "Would You Go With Me," and "Why Don't We Just Dance."

Mike Snider String Band in Concert
Date(s): May 11, 2013
When: 7:30 pm
Where: Smoky Mountain Center for the Performing Arts in Franklin

Mike Snider made his way on the country music scene in the 1980's with his incomparable wit and stellar banjo playing. Mike first worked his way into people's hearts through his hundreds of spots on TNN's Nashville Now, and his seven-year stay in the cornfield on "Hee Haw." A Grand Ole Opry member since 1990, Mike continues to draw laughter and entertain crowds with his music. More info

Mountain, Moonshine, & Music
Date(s): May 14, 2013 - May 16, 2013
When: 7:30pm
Where: The storytelling Center

Enjoy an evening of stories, recipes, and music at The Storytelling Center of the Southern Appalachians in Downtown Bryson City. For more information call 828-488-5705 or www.psalmsofthesouth.com

Music Jam
Date(s): May 16, 2013
When: 6:00 pm - 7:30 pm
Where: Marianna Black Library

Come experience  the sounds of local musicians as they demonstrate their talents. Have a guitar, banjo, mandolin, fiddle, dulcimer - anything unplugged - and want to play, please come! Larry Barnett of Grandpa's Music in Bryson City facilitates the jams. Want additional information about this or other programs offered at the Marianna Black Library, please click here or call 828-488-2382.

Tailgate Farmers Market
Date(s): May 17, 2013
When: 9:00 am - 1:00 pm
Where: Main Street, Bryson City

You'll find locally grown produce and other edibles, plants, flowers, crafts and more at the market. Every Friday, May - October. Parking lot next to the old courthouse on Main Street.

Contra & Square Dance
Date(s): May 18, 2013
When: 8-11 pm
Where: John C. Campbell Folk School

A time of dancing that people of all ages can enjoy. Admission is adults $7, ages 12-18 $4, and 12 and under $3. Folkschool.org

Spring Bluegrass Celebration
Date(s): May 18, 2013
When: 11 am - 5 pm; 7:30 pm concert
Where: Stecoah Valley Center

11 am - 5 pm. Arts & craft vendors on the grounds. Dinner available in the Schoolhouse Cafe. Concert at 7:30 pm featuring The Wilson Family. Individual ticket prices: $10 (adult) & $5 (student, K-12).  More info

Taste of Home Cooking School
Date(s): May 18, 2013
When: 6:30 pm
Where: Smoky Mountain Center for the Performing Arts in Franklin

At a Taste of Home Cooking School show, you'll experience a 2-hour demonstration of exciting recipes, cooking tips and innovative products. The Culinary Specialists will show step-by-step instructions on how to create satisfying and flavorful dishes to enjoy at home or while entertaining. Additionally, everyone will receive a gift bag full of recipes, coupons and sample products. All participants also have the opportunity to register for door prizes, including the featured dishes of the evening created on stage that night. More info

Return of the Elk
Date(s): May 21, 2013
When: 5:00pm
Where: Cataloochee Valley, Rough Fork Trailhead

Come enjoy a guided hike to the elk acclimation pen explore how, when, and why the elk were returned to the Smokies.

Mountain, Moonshine, & Music
Date(s): May 21, 2013 - May 23, 2013
When: 7:30pm
Where: The Storytelling Center

Enjoy an evening of stories, recipes, and music at The Storytelling Center of the Southern Appalachians in Downtown Bryson City. For more information call 828-488-5705 or www.psalmsofthesouth.com

Tailgate Farmers Market
Date(s): May 24, 2013
When: 9:00 am - 1:00 pm
Where: Main Street, Bryson City

You'll find locally grown produce and other edibles, plants, flowers, crafts and more at the market. Every Friday, May - October. Parking lot next to the old courthouse on Main Street.

Swain County Heritage Festival
Date(s): May 24, 2013 - May 25, 2013
When: May 24 6-9:00 pm, May 25 10 am-6:30 pm
Where: Riverfront Park,Mitchell Street, Bryson City, NC

This two day festival has it all! Friday night entertainment is loaded with local talent featuring an emphasis on old – time gospel. Saturday entertainment, classic country and bluegrass, clogging, and Indian hoop dancing. In addition to music, the festival offers local arts and crafts, food, games for the kids, log-sawing contest and fun for the whole family.

Aaron Lewis
Date(s): May 24, 2013
When: 9:00pm
Where: Harrah's Cherokee Event Center

On his first full-length album, the Grammy Award-nominated, multi-platinum singer, songwriter, and guitarist tells one story after another. Echoing traditional country, some of those tales are hilarious and heartwarming, while others are pensive and personal. Nevertheless, they're all equally powerful, vibrant, and unforgettable. For Lewis, The Road continues to wind and surprise like it always has.

Bryson City Ghost Walk
Date(s): May 24, 2013 - May 25, 2013
When: 8:00pm
Where: Arcoss from the train depot

The Bryson City Ghost Walk is an eerie one-hour walk through Downtown Bryson City, Nc. You will hear legends and stories about real people as well as ghost stories and the result of recent paranormal investigations. All of our stories are history based and designed for family entertainment. For more information call 828-488-5705 or www.psalmsofthesouth.com

A Perfect Wedding
Date(s): May 24, 2013
When: 7:30pm
Where: Smoky Mountain community Theatre

A disastrous situation hapens on the day of Bills and Rachel's wedding. Bill finds himself in the honeymoon suite with another woman! Scrambling to get rid of her, Tom, the best man, tries to solve the situation for Bill by claiming her to Rachel(the bride). However, Tom mistakes a chambermaid for the girl. Confusion and mayhem ensue when lines of communication get crossed. For more information call 828-488-8227 or online at www.smctheathre.com

Georgia Symphony
Date(s): May 25, 2013
When: 7:00 pm
Where: Smoky Mountain Center Performing Arts Center

The GSO presents a Symphonic Spectacular including music from the movies, Broadway, and popular classics. The GSO is directed by Michael Alexander, Director of Orchestral Activities at Kennesaw State University, and active as a guest conductor in Europe, Australia and at various places in the United States.

A Perfect Wedding
Date(s): May 25, 2013
When: 7:30pm
Where: Smoky Mountain Community Theatre

A disastrous situation hapens on the day of Bills and Rachel's wedding. Bill finds himself in the honeymoon suite with another woman! Scrambling to get rid of her, Tom, the best man, tries to solve the situation for Bill by claiming her to Rachel(the bride). However, Tom mistakes a chambermaid for the girl. Confusion and mayhem ensue when lines of communication get crossed. For more information call 828-488-8227 or online at www.smctheathre.com

Southern Remedy
Date(s): May 25, 2013
When: 9pm
Where: Tuckasegee Tavern

Come and enjoy a full evening of music and food at the Tavern in town. For more information call 828-488-9880.

Reba
Date(s): May 26, 2013
When: 7:30 pm
Where: Harrah's Cherokee Event Center

Country music legend Reba McIntyre has over 55 million in worldwide album sales; 63 Top 10 hits; the #1 TV sitcom for 6 consecutive years on two networks; a stint on Broadway that garnered a Drama Critics Award; 15 American Music Awards, 9 People’s Choice Awards, 7 Country Music Association Awards and 9 grammys.

A Perfect Wedding
Date(s): May 26, 2013
When: 7:30pm
Where: Smoky Mountain Community Theatre

A disastrous situation hapens on the day of Bills and Rachel's wedding. Bill finds himself in the honeymoon suite with another woman! Scrambling to get rid of her, Tom, the best man, tries to solve the situation for Bill by claiming her to Rachel(the bride). However, Tom mistakes a chambermaid for the girl. Confusion and mayhem ensue when lines of communication get crossed. For more information call 828-488-8227 or online at www.smctheathre.com

A Perfect Wedding
Date(s): May 27, 2013
When: 7:30pm
Where: Smoky Mountain Community Theatre

A disastrous situation hapens on the day of Bills and Rachel's wedding. Bill finds himself in the honeymoon suite with another woman! Scrambling to get rid of her, Tom, the best man, tries to solve the situation for Bill by claiming her to Rachel(the bride). However, Tom mistakes a chambermaid for the girl. Confusion and mayhem ensue when lines of communication get crossed. For more information call 828-488-8227 or online at www.smctheathre.com

Mountain, Moonshine, & Music
Date(s): May 28, 2013 - May 30, 2013
When: 7:30pm
Where: The Storytelling Center

Enjoy an evening of stories, recipes, and music at The Storytelling Center of the Southern Appalachians in Downtown Bryson City. For more information call 828-488-5705 or www.psalmsofthesouth.com

Come Paint With Charles
Date(s): May 29, 2013
When: 6:00pm

Do not forget to reserve your space and come and paint have freshments and have lots of fun with our Kidz After School Program. For information stop inCcharles Gallery or call us at 828-538-2054.

Cherokee Memorial Holiday Trout Fishing Tournament
Date(s): May 31, 2013 - Jun 02, 2013
Where: Cherokee Indian Reservation

$11 entry fee and $10,000 in tagged fish in the rivers on the Cherokee Reservation (excluding the 2.2 miles of catch and release waters) Hundreds of specially tagged fish will be stocked in the Cherokee public fishing waters. When a tagged fish is caught it can be redeemed for cash prizes ranging from $20 to $500 based on the color of the tag. Redemption location and times to be announced. Open to all ages and for all legal fishing methods. Registration necessary to redeem cash prize. More info

Tailgate Farmers Market
Date(s): May 31, 2013
When: 9:00 am - 1:00 pm
Where: Main Street, Bryson City

You'll find locally grown produce and other edibles, plants, flowers, crafts and more at the market. Every Friday, May - October. Parking lot next to the old courthouse on Main Street.

Bryson City Ghost Walk
Date(s): May 31, 2013 - Jun 01, 2013
When: 8:00pm
Where: Across from the train depot

The Bryson City Ghost Walk is an eerie one-hour walk through Downtown Bryson City, Nc. You will hear legends and stories about real people as well as ghost stories and the result of recent paranormal investigations. All of our stories are history based and designed for family entertainment. For more information call 828-488-5705 or www.psalmsofthesouth.com

A Perfect Wedding
Date(s): May 31, 2013
When: 7:30pm
Where: Smoky Mountain Community Theatre

A disastrous situation hapens on the day of Bills and Rachel's wedding. Bill finds himself in the honeymoon suite with another woman! Scrambling to get rid of her, Tom, the best man, tries to solve the situation for Bill by claiming her to Rachel(the bride). However, Tom mistakes a chambermaid for the girl. Confusion and mayhem ensue when lines of communication get crossed. For more information call 828-488-8227 or online at www.smctheathre.com

Fourth of July Freedom Fest
Wednesday, July 4, 2013
Vendor Application

23rd Annual Chili Cook-Off
Saturday, October 19, 2013
Cooker Application    Crafter Application

Christmas Parade
Saturday, December 14, 2013
Participant Application

 

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Bryson City - Swain County
Chamber of Commerce
& Visitor Center

210 Main Street
P.O. Box 509
Bryson City, NC 28713

Email

Karen Proctor Wilmot
Executive Director

800-867-9246 toll-free
828-488-3681 local
828-488-6858 fax