Great Smoky Mountains Heritage Center events

Ever wonder what it was like to live in East Tennessee as far back as the 1700s and 1800s? Well, if you’re coming through Townsend, Tn, stop by the Great Smoky Mountains Heritage Center and let them guide you through the paces of life in Smokies during those early pioneer days. From artifacts dating as far back as 5,000 years ago to early family cabins and homesteads, the center has a bit of everything.

When you’re at the center you’ll notice a wide range of exhibits, sign-ups for educational programs, demonstrations and guides that offer a similar theme – no matter the demonstration or subject, it’s a historic journey through time taking in pieces of the numerous diverse cultures of Townsend and Tuckaleechee Cove. Not only that, the center offers a yearly concert series featuring the sounds bluegrass and other regional tunes.

This year’s Fall Concert Series includes:

September 7 – Blue Mother Tupelo

September 14 – Y’uns

September 21 – Four Leaf Peat

Also in September, the center’s Rotary Storytelling Festival commences, beginning September 15. That’s followed by a cub scout family weekend September 21-22. And back by popular demand is the Smoky Mountain Woodcarving Festival (www.woodcarvers.com) October 6-7. So, as you can see, it’s shaping up to be a big year at the Great Smoky Mountains Heritage Center and we’re not even halfway through October yet.

 One of the year’s biggest events is the Fall Mountain Home Tour. This is set for Friday, October 19. Tickets are $65 apiece and must be paid for when ordered. Each ticket includes is a three-home tour, transportation to and from The Reserve in Townsend, a $10 voucher for lunch or dinner at one of a dozen Townsend restaurants, and free admission to the Heritage Center. The free admission pass is good for one year following the home tour.

For more information, or to order tickets to the Home Tour, call 865-448-0044, or mail a check (P. O. Box 268, Townsend, Tn, 37882) for $65 per ticket, or visit the Great Smoky Mountain Heritage Center office between 10 am and 4 pm during the week.

That weekend (October 20) is also marked for the Smoky Mountain Field School Fall Nature Photography Workshop. For anyone interested, they may call the Heritage Center to inquire further about the event and any other requirements.

Events rounding out the rest of year include:

October 26 – Dr. Bass Presentation & Book Signing

October 27 – Smoky Mountain Book Festival

November 10 – Veterans Day Celebration

November – Holiday Homecoming

Yearly Admission:
Adults (18-59) – $6
Seniors (60+) – $4
Children (6-17) – $4
Under 6 Free
Admission Free with Membership

(Contact us for membership application)