2019 Pigeon Forge Destination Guide | Page 6

8 SPECIAL EVENTS SPECIAL EVENTS MARCH A MOUNTAIN QUILTFEST™ Celebrate the centuries-old tradition of quilting. A stunning show of handmade heirloom and contemporary textile art is the centerpiece of this event that includes classes led by quilting experts, a vendor mall and more. SEPTEMBER & OCTOBER ROTARY CLUB CRAFT FAIR A fall tradition under the big tent, dozens of talented crafters set up shop and offer handmade treasures. Patriot Park APRIL FESTIVAL OF NATIONS Dollywood welcomes the world during Festival of Nations, a fascinating multi-cultural celebration featuring traditional music, dance, food and art of nations from around the globe. OCTOBER DOLLYWOOD’S HARVEST FESTIVAL Days are filled with the uplifting sounds of free Southern gospel music concerts along with the talented artistry of visiting crafters who showcase their wares. In the evenings, the park is aglow as the Great Pumpkin LumiNights unfolds. For details, visit Dollywood.com. MAY MUSIC IN THE MOUNTAINS SPRING PARADE This springtime tradition celebrates the rich musical heritage of the Great Smoky Mountains with performances by local and visiting marching bands, performers from the city’s theater community and more. NOVEMBER/DECEMBER PIGEON FORGE WINTERFEST Winterfest celebrates the holiday and winter seasons in Pigeon Forge. More than five million lights shine from winter-themed displays, giving the city a welcoming glow. Theaters are filled with Christmas tunes during November and December. WILDERNESS WILDLIFE WEEK™ Experience springtime in the Smokies during this award-winning event. More than 200 experts share their knowledge and passion for the great outdoors. Daily hikes into the national park are the perfect way to enjoy the beauty of spring. This event is an excellent way for all ages to explore the wonders of nature. WINTERFEST TOUR OF LIGHTS Enjoy a self-guided tour of the Winterfest light displays. Maps showing locations of the displays, along with some Pigeon Forge trivia, are available at the Welcome Center (traffic light #0) and Information Center (traffic light #5). You also can download a map at MyPigeonForge.com. DOLLYWOOD’S BARBEQUE & BLUEGRASS Dollywood serves mouthwatering barbeque alongside a stellar lineup of free bluegrass concerts. Visit Dollywood.com for a list of entertainers. AUGUST CELEBRATE FREEDOM!™ During the entire month of August, participating Pigeon Forge businesses offer discounts for active and veteran military, National Guard reservists, police officers, firefighters and other emergency personnel. VETERANS HOMECOMING PARADE Pigeon Forge’s annual tribute to the men and women who have served in our nation’s military. DOLLYWOOD’S SMOKY MOUNTAIN CHRISTMAS A 11-time award winner of America’s Best Christmas Event, Dollywood’s Smoky Mountain Christmas features millions of holiday lights, the Parade of Many Colors, and spectacular holiday performances. Visit Dollywood.com for group rates and an operating schedule. WINTERFEST AT THE ISLAND Miles of garland and holiday lights, a 35-foot-tall Christmas tree, music and a holiday atmosphere are just part of the celebration of Winterfest at The Island. All special events are subject to rescheduling or cancellation. Please confirm with the Department of Tourism at 1-800-285-7557 when planning your tour. 9