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
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
Over a quarter century of hand crafting went into the completion of this authentic animated holiday village that includes ferris wheels, trains, a full dance hall, Christmas tree farm, ski slope and sleds, ice skating, a lake, waterfalls and more!
Parade begins by the Bear Zoo, to 441N, ending by the Museum of the Cherokee Indian. Floats, bands, and of course Santa. A Christmas bazaar and band concert after the parade. More info
Make a beautiful angel that you can give as a gift or display for the holidays. Pincu Pottery makes it easy and fun! Cost is $30 per person. For more information contact 828-488-0480 or visit them online at www.pincupottery.com
This Holiday Season remember to schedule your family gathering, company party or civic group's Christmas Dinner at The Chestnut Tree Inn in Cherokee. Come enjoy a bountiful Christmas feast prepared especially for you and yours. Celebrate the season with fellowship and let Chestnut Tree handle all the hassle for you. Enjoy a delicious plated meal with fresh garden salad, fresh vegetables, rolls, dessert and beverages including a Holiday Wassel at no extra charge! For more information and to make your reservations today, contact the Chestnut Tree Inn at (828) 497-9702 ext. 333.
Larry Donaldson and Allen Brooks will perform a concert called "Gibson and Martin Recollections of the Storied Road" at Swain County Center for the Arts. They will play 70's music that will include easy listneing, folk, and rock with their own flair, as well as some of their own tunes.
Immediately following the concert there will be a meet and greet reception for the musicians and for Larry Donaldson's artist wife, Melinda Donaldson, whose artwork will be on display at the Center for the Arts through January 23rd. Sponsored by Swain County Center for the Arts and Swain County Schools, the public is invited to attend both the concert and the reception free of charge.
For further information call (828) 488-7843. To view the most accurate calendar of events or get directions to the Arts Center located at Swain County High School simply visit www.swain.k12.nc.us/cfta.
Stecoah Artisans Guild is pleased to announce they will be hosting the 4th Annual Christmas in the Mountains Art & Craft Show Saturday, December 1st from 10:00am to 5:00pm indoors. The Stecoah Artisans Gallery will be hosting their annual Open House from 2:00pm - 5:00pm and the Shoolhouse Cafe will be open all day. Join the Stecoah Valley Center for a fabulous day of shopping locally, visiting with friends, family and artists. For more information call 828-479-3364.
Shop for fine crafts made by over 40 artisans as you stroll through historic Keith House and Davidson Hall. Enjoy holiday music and a warm, glowing fire. Visit the Craft Shop where all items are 15% off through December 24th. Located in Brasstown, NC between Murphy and Hayesville off US 64. For more information call 828-837-2775 or 800 FOLK-SCH
In these one-day classes make 8 different kinds of cookies to take home. Tuition is $45.00. For more information call (828) 479-3364 or simply visit www.StecoahValleyCenter.com.
Learn the basics of temporing chocolates! Bring an apron and wear "chocolate resistant clothing" along with a container to carry your chocolates home. Tuition is $65.00. For more information call (828) 479-3365 or visit www.StecoahValleyCenter.com.
The 1 ¼ hour round-trip excursion comes to life as the train departs the Bryson City depot for a special visit at the "North Pole." Set to the sounds of the motion picture soundtrack, guests on board will enjoy warm cocoa and a treat while listening and reading along with the magical story. The train arrives to find Santa Claus waiting. Santa boards the train greeting each child and presenting them with their own silver sleigh bell. Christmas carols will be sung as they return back to the Bryson City Depot. More info
This experience will teach, while allowing you to enjoy the etiquette and customs of the Victorian afternoon tea. Served along with your tea will be punch, finger sandwiches, scones and desserts! YUM! Be sure to come with your favorite cup and saucer and wear your best "bib and tucker". Tuition is $45.00. For more information call (828) 479-3364 or visit www.StecoahValleyCenter.com.
The 1 ¼ hour round-trip excursion comes to life as the train departs the Bryson City depot for a special visit at the "North Pole." Set to the sounds of the motion picture soundtrack, guests on board will enjoy warm cocoa and a treat while listening and reading along with the magical story. The train arrives to find Santa Claus waiting. Santa boards the train greeting each child and presenting them with their own silver sleigh bell. Christmas carols will be sung as they return back to the Bryson City Depot. More info
The 1 ¼ hour round-trip excursion comes to life as the train departs the Bryson City depot for a special visit at the "North Pole." Set to the sounds of the motion picture soundtrack, guests on board will enjoy warm cocoa and a treat while listening and reading along with the magical story. The train arrives to find Santa Claus waiting. Santa boards the train greeting each child and presenting them with their own silver sleigh bell. Christmas carols will be sung as they return back to the Bryson City Depot. More info
Take a trip back in time to a Christmas celebration World War II style as the USO brings music, Hollywood Stars and comedy across the Atlantic to honor and cheer soldiers during the holiday season. Taken from actual USO shows of the period, Christmas Memories will remind us all that there is no place like home for the holidays.;
John Jake's adaptation of Charles Dickens' story of "A Christmas Carol". Tickets are $8 for Adults, $5 for students between 6-18 yrs and kids under 6 yrs are FREE. Tickets are sold at the box office one hour before showtime, located at 134 Main Street, Bryson City, NC For more information call 828- 488-8227 or 828-508-6645.
The 1 ¼ hour round-trip excursion comes to life as the train departs the Bryson City depot for a special visit at the "North Pole." Set to the sounds of the motion picture soundtrack, guests on board will enjoy warm cocoa and a treat while listening and reading along with the magical story. The train arrives to find Santa Claus waiting. Santa boards the train greeting each child and presenting them with their own silver sleigh bell. Christmas carols will be sung as they return back to the Bryson City Depot. More info
The Graham County Chamber of Commerce is this year's Christmas parade sponsor with expanded activities such as a tree trimming contest, best decorated business contest and much more! For more information go to www.grahamchambernc.com or simply call (828) 735-4907.
Enjoy a pancake breakfast with Santa for only $3 per person. Bring your own camera to be sure you get your picture taken with Jolly Ole Saint Nick! In the spirit of the season please bring a canned good for the food pantry or a new unwrapped toy for the toy drive! For more information contact (800) 867-9246 oe visit www.greatsmokies.com.
Entry fee is $20. Be sure to hang around after the race for hot chocolate and the 38th Annual Swain County Christmas Parade. Awards will be given to male and female finishers, The 5K route will be through Bryson City to Deep Creek and back. For furhter details or to register online by Tuesday 12/4 visit www.runbrysoncity.com.
Learn to make a soft sculpture doll using a technique of wrapping scraps of material and leave with a "baby" that has a tag intertwined on which you can sign your name. Tuition for the class is $20. Enjoy a creative break this holiday season while making a nice gift for someone on your list this year. To sign up call 828-479-3364 or register online at www.stecoahvalleycenter.com.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park announces the 37th annual Festival Of Christmases Past celebration. The full schedule of the day includes....
9:30am - Old-fashioned Harp singing
11:00am - Old Time Music with Lost Mill String Band
12:00pm - Stories fo the Past panel discussion
1:00pm - Old Time Music with South of the River Boys
2:00pm - Old Time Music with Boogertown Gap Band
3:00pm - Old Time Christmas with Tony Thomas and Judy Carson
John Jake's adaption of Charles Dickens' story of "A Cristmas Carol". Tickets are $8 for Adults, $5 for students between 6-18yrs and kids under 6yrs are FREE. Tickets are sold at the box office one hour before showtime, located at 134 Main Street, Bryson City, NC. For more information call 828-488-8227 or 508-6645
Choose from an incredible variety of homemade holiday cookies at $6 per pound and find the perfect gift in the holiday shop as well as breads, decorations, and more.
For more information: Wilma Reppert, 828-488-6208
The 1 ¼ hour round-trip excursion comes to life as the train departs the Bryson City depot for a special visit at the "North Pole." Set to the sounds of the motion picture soundtrack, guests on board will enjoy warm cocoa and a treat while listening and reading along with the magical story. The train arrives to find Santa Claus waiting. Santa boards the train greeting each child and presenting them with their own silver sleigh bell. Christmas carols will be sung as they return back to the Bryson City Depot. More info
John Jake's adaptation of Charles Dickens' story of "A Christmas Carol". Tickets are $8 for adults, $5 for students between 6-18yrs and kids under 6yrs are FREE! Tickets are sold at the box office one hour before showtime, located at 134 Main Street, Bryson City, NC. For more information call 828-488-8227 or 828-508-6645
The 1 ¼ hour round-trip excursion comes to life as the train departs the Bryson City depot for a special visit at the "North Pole." Set to the sounds of the motion picture soundtrack, guests on board will enjoy warm cocoa and a treat while listening and reading along with the magical story. The train arrives to find Santa Claus waiting. Santa boards the train greeting each child and presenting them with their own silver sleigh bell. Christmas carols will be sung as they return back to the Bryson City Depot. More info
The 1 ¼ hour round-trip excursion comes to life as the train departs the Bryson City depot for a special visit at the "North Pole." Set to the sounds of the motion picture soundtrack, guests on board will enjoy warm cocoa and a treat while listening and reading along with the magical story. The train arrives to find Santa Claus waiting. Santa boards the train greeting each child and presenting them with their own silver sleigh bell. Christmas carols will be sung as they return back to the Bryson City Depot. More info
Learn how to complete your own traditional Corn Shuck Angel or Doll to keep or to give someone on your Christmas list this year. Tuition is $25. (materials included) To sign up call 828-479-3364 or register online at www.stecoahvalleycenter.com.
The 1 ¼ hour round-trip excursion comes to life as the train departs the Bryson City depot for a special visit at the "North Pole." Set to the sounds of the motion picture soundtrack, guests on board will enjoy warm cocoa and a treat while listening and reading along with the magical story. The train arrives to find Santa Claus waiting. Santa boards the train greeting each child and presenting them with their own silver sleigh bell. Christmas carols will be sung as they return back to the Bryson City Depot. More info
Two time Grammy nominated pianist and songwriter, Jim Brickman, LIVE in concert is one of the most entertaining and romantic concert events of the year. Brickman brings his engaging stage presence blended seamlessly with the mood and music to touch the heart in a special way and let fan's imaginations take them to another place. His live performances strike the perfect balance between emotional, musical intimacy, compelling storytelling and audience interaction. It's sure to be a wonderful addition to your Christmas season.
John Jake's adaptation of Charles Dickens' story of "A Christmas Carol". Tickets are $8 for adults, $5 for students between 6-18yrs and kids under 6yrs are FREE! Tickets are sold at the box office one hour before showtime, located at 134 Main St., Bryson City, NC. For more information call 828-488-8227 or 828-508-6645.
Bring the family to Cherokee for "Family Christmas" for horse 'n buggy rides aroound the beautifully decorated Island Park, pictures with Santa ($10); plus Santa's Workshop, where children will get to make crafts to take home ($3), handmade Cherokee gifts, Christmas stories, caroling, hot chocolate and apple cider. Bring the whole family to our Christmas adventure!
The 1 ¼ hour round-trip excursion comes to life as the train departs the Bryson City depot for a special visit at the "North Pole." Set to the sounds of the motion picture soundtrack, guests on board will enjoy warm cocoa and a treat while listening and reading along with the magical story. The train arrives to find Santa Claus waiting. Santa boards the train greeting each child and presenting them with their own silver sleigh bell. Christmas carols will be sung as they return back to the Bryson City Depot. More info
Demonstrations of crafts past, live music, refreshments, and walking tours of the Mountain Farm Museum are just a few of the reasons to attend this annual event! A real “old-time” Christmas celebration!
Add a little outdoor-joy to the holiday season with a guided hike of the Mingus Creek Trail, followed by a trip to the Oconaluftee Visitor Center for some Great Smoky Mountain history and holiday shopping in the Great Smoky Mountains Association's Book Store and Shop. Friends of the Smokies members receive 15% off purchases so bring your boots, your membership card and your wallet! To register for any hikes, contact Friends of the Smokies website .
John Jakes' adaptation of Charles Dickens' story of "A Christmas Carol". Tickets are $8 for adults, $5 for students between 6-18yrs and kids under 6yrs are FREE! Tickets are sold at the box office one hour before showtime, located at 134 Main Street in Bryson City, NC. For more information call 828-488-8227 or 828-488-6645. Or visit www.smctheatre.com.
Join Paige, Harvey, Raquel and the P.A.W.S. gang for the ANNUAL HOLIDAY WINE TASTING! Your $5 admission goes directly to P.A.W.S. to help with care of Swain County's homeless dogs and cats. For more information call 828-488-6207.
The 1 ¼ hour round-trip excursion comes to life as the train departs the Bryson City depot for a special visit at the "North Pole." Set to the sounds of the motion picture soundtrack, guests on board will enjoy warm cocoa and a treat while listening and reading along with the magical story. The train arrives to find Santa Claus waiting. Santa boards the train greeting each child and presenting them with their own silver sleigh bell. Christmas carols will be sung as they return back to the Bryson City Depot. More info
John Jake's adaptation of Charles Dickens' story of "A Christmas Carol". Tickets are $8 for adults, $5 for students between 6-18yrs and kids under 6yrs are FREE! Tickets are sold at the box office one hour before showtime located at 134 Main Street, Bryson City, NC. For more information call 828-488-8227 or 828-508-6645.
Since their appearance on NBC's Sing-off Competition. Voices of Lee's intense musical focus has captivated audiences worldwide. From Lee University in Cleveland, TN and directed by Danny Murray, this fourteen-member group is characterized by their unique variety of lush vocal harmonies. The Voices of Lee have appeared on "Good Morning America" as well as Christmas at the White House. For detail visit www.voicesoflee.com.
In 2008, James Daily and Darrin Vincent became the most heralded new act in bluegrass with their debut album "Dailey & Vincent". That same year, the group took home seven awards at the 2008 International Bluegrass Music Awards Show, including Entertianer of the Yer and Album of the Year. Bluegrass musicians though and though, these "Borthers from Different Mothers" have found the closest thing to brotherhood- a true musical partnership. Join Dailey and VIncent as they celebrate the sounds of the Cristmas season. For more information visit www.daileyvincent.musiccitynews.com.
The 1 ¼ hour round-trip excursion comes to life as the train departs the Bryson City depot for a special visit at the "North Pole." Set to the sounds of the motion picture soundtrack, guests on board will enjoy warm cocoa and a treat while listening and reading along with the magical story. The train arrives to find Santa Claus waiting. Santa boards the train greeting each child and presenting them with their own silver sleigh bell. Christmas carols will be sung as they return back to the Bryson City Depot. More info
The 1 ¼ hour round-trip excursion comes to life as the train departs the Bryson City depot for a special visit at the "North Pole." Set to the sounds of the motion picture soundtrack, guests on board will enjoy warm cocoa and a treat while listening and reading along with the magical story. The train arrives to find Santa Claus waiting. Santa boards the train greeting each child and presenting them with their own silver sleigh bell. Christmas carols will be sung as they return back to the Bryson City Depot. More info
The 1 ¼ hour round-trip excursion comes to life as the train departs the Bryson City depot for a special visit at the "North Pole." Set to the sounds of the motion picture soundtrack, guests on board will enjoy warm cocoa and a treat while listening and reading along with the magical story. The train arrives to find Santa Claus waiting. Santa boards the train greeting each child and presenting them with their own silver sleigh bell. Christmas carols will be sung as they return back to the Bryson City Depot. More info
The 1 ¼ hour round-trip excursion comes to life as the train departs to take Santa back to the "North Pole." Set to the sounds of the motion picture soundtrack, guests on board will enjoy warm cocoa and a treat while listening and reading along with the magical story. Santa greets each child and presents them with their own silver sleigh bell. Christmas carols will be sung as they return back to the Bryson City Depot. More info
With over 100 million records sold, nine Grammy nominations, three Grammy Awards and an American Music Award, "KC and the Sunshine Band" is renowned as one of the seminal forces in pop music. Tickets are $25, $35 and $45. For reservations call toll free 800-745-3000 or visit www.kcsunshineband.tickets-center.com.
Festivities beginning at 8 pm. More info
Spend New Year's Eve in the Smoky Mountains! See the fireworks and bring in 2013 with the best dinner you'll have in 2012 at the Mountview Restaurant within Fontana Village Resort!! Call for details on the New Year's Eve Dinner & Party Package at (828) 498-2115 or visit www.fontanavillage.com.
Live entertainment. A New Years Eve Gala and Dinner Party followed by fireworks at midnight. Ring in the New Year in the Smokies! Click here for details.
Click here for Fontana Village Resort. Phone: 800-849-2258
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
Karen Proctor Wilmot
Executive Director
800-867-9246 toll-free
828-488-3681 local
828-488-6858 fax