Smoky Mountain Harvest Festival: Fall Foliage and Fun for All in Gatlinburg

GATLINBURG, Tenn. – The Smoky Mountain Harvest Festival brings all the best of the season to life, with decorating contests, great food, craft fairs, and family-friendly events beginning September through the end of October in Gatlinburg.

The celebrations begin with the 8^th annual OktOBERfest Sept. 22-Oct. 29 at Ober Gatlinburg. Bavarian-style food, live music, and both indoor and outdoor “bier gartens” is featured. During the event, guests will also be able to ride above the treetops in the Ober Gatlinburg Aerial Tram for a classic way to see stunning views of colorful foliage spanning for miles across the Great Smoky Mountains. As the leaves begin their vivid change, be sure to check Gatlinburg’s official website for updates on the foliage forecast and tips on the best places to view the autumn leaves at their peak.

This year Sugarlands Distilling Company celebrate the inaugural MountainFest Sept. 28-Oct. 1 in downtown Gatlinburg. The four-day music and outdoor event will include headliners such as Travelin’ McCoury’s, Hardworking Americans, the Jeff Austin Band and many more. Visitors can also look forward to outdoor competitions, craft cocktails, and access to downtown Gatlinburg’s world-class attractions and shops.

The 19th Annual Fright Nights Show hosted by Ripley’s Haunted Adventure takes place 6 p.m. Friday, Saturday and Sunday evenings Sept. 30-Oct. 31. This year visitors can come face-to-face with Dr. Streaper and a world of infected zombie-like monsters in “Contamination.” Shows will begin with a character parade to kick off the night. Children must be at least 6 years of age to view the show, however, parents are advised to know that the show is more suitable for children 12 and up. 

The 42nd Annual Fall Craftsmen’s Fair takes place 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sundays Oct. 5-22 at the Gatlinburg Convention Center. Music shows are scheduled at 12, 2 and 4 p.m. daily, 12 and 2 p.m. on Sundays. The occasion will play host to some of the top crafts people from all across the United States, while also offering visitors the chance to shop handmade items and art pieces. Of the 180 booths of crafters and artisans in attendance, many will be giving live demonstrations to audiences during regular booth hours.

May the best Halloween costume win at the Trick or Treat Kickoff Karnival 1-5 p.m. on Oct. 31 at Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies Plaza. The family-friendly event is to include contests, costumes, candy, and trick or treat safety tips from the Gatlinburg Police Department and a fire safety informational session from the Gatlinburg Fire Department.

For more information, visit www.gatlinburg.com or call 800-588-1817.

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