Gatlinburg East / Smoky Mountain KOA Holiday

Summer Gatlinburg Craftsmen's Fair

Starts: 07/10/2026 - Ends: 07/19/2026

This fair features over 180 booths showcasing handmade, one-of-a-kind items created by juried artisans from across the country. Visitors can watch live craft demonstrations, chat with craftsmen, and shop everything from pottery and jewelry to wood carvings and leather goods. Each day includes live music—think country, bluegrass, and gospel—on the fair's stage, included with admission. Families are welcome, with free children's admission (ages 17 and under with a paid adult) and a designated Kid's Corner offering hands-on craft activities for younger guests. Whether you're hunting for unique gifts, appreciating artisans at work, or enjoying a fun family outing, the Gatlinburg Craftsmen's Fair offers a rich mix of craftsmanship, culture, and live entertainment in a beautiful mountain setting.

The Mountain Music Festival

Starts: 08/21/2026 - Ends: 08/23/2026

The Mountain Music Festival in Gatlinburg, Tennessee is a high-energy three-day rock-and-roll celebration held at the Gatlinburg Convention Center and throughout the scenic Smoky Mountains region. Previously known as Monsters on the Mountain, the event features multiple stages, rock bands from across the spectrum of hard rock and metal, and a lively festival atmosphere. Attendees can expect large-scale concerts, a vendor marketplace themed around rock culture, VIP access options, and immersive experiences tailored to music fans who want more than just a show — it's a full weekend getaway in the mountains.

Annual Smoky Mountain Bigfoot Conference

Starts: 07/25/2026 - Ends: 07/25/2026

This event brings together top researchers, authors, and investigators of the legendary creature known as Bigfoot (or Sasquatch) to share their findings, stories, and fieldwork in a formal presentation setting. In addition to speaker sessions, the conference features a large vendor hall where attendees can browse and purchase a wide range of cryptid-themed merchandise—from books and gadgets to apparel and novelty items. Whether you're a lifelong believer in the unknown or just curious about the legend, this conference offers an engaging blend of education, folklore, and fun all set in the scenic backdrop of the Smokies.

Gatlinburg Farmers Market

Starts: 05/16/2026 - Ends: 10/17/2026

Offering a taste of healthy mountain living, the Farmers Market is open every Saturday from 8:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., May through October, at 1222 East Parkway across from Food City.Featuring a variety of local producers, the market focuses on fresh, seasonal produce and handcrafted goods, all set in a welcoming, community-centered atmosphere.

July 4th in Gatlinburg

Starts: 07/04/2026 - Ends: 07/04/2026

Celebrate Independence Day in Gatlinburg, TN at one of the region's can't-miss summer events—designated a Top 20 Event by the Southeast Tourism Society. Head to downtown Gatlinburg as the city lights up the Smoky Mountain skyline with an unforgettable 200-drone patriotic show launching from the Gatlinburg Convention Center, followed by a spectacular fireworks finale from the Gatlinburg Space Needle. After the show, don't miss the chance to get a behind-the-scenes look at the drones.

This free Independence Day event in Gatlinburg is open to the public. Guests are encouraged to arrive early to secure parking and avoid road closures.The night ends with a dual finale: a patriotic drone show at 10:50 p.m., followed by Gatlinburg's signature Space Needle fireworks display. For the best views, plan to watch from the Shade Tree Lot on Airport Road.

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Black Bear & Berry Jam Festival

Starts: 07/17/2026 - Ends: 07/19/2026

Discover one of the sweetest new summer festivals in the Great Smoky Mountains at the first annual Black Bear & Berry Jam Festival. This three-day family-friendly event celebrates the flavors of the season with berry-inspired food, live music, and mountain-town fun—all in one unforgettable Smokies weekend.Enjoy live “Berry Jam” music throughout the festival while sampling a variety of berry-flavored treats and drinks, including jellies, desserts, and refreshing beverages—perfect for warm summer days in the mountains.Beyond the food and entertainment, guests can visit Ober's Wildlife Habitat for a chance to see live black bears and learn more through engaging wildlife programming. Ober's wildlife team will host educational bear talks, interactive presentations, and share local initiatives that support wildlife conservation.

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Oktoberfest at Ober

Starts: 10/01/2026 - Ends: 11/01/2026

Experience the ultimate Oktoberfest in Gatlinburg at Ober Gatlinburg—home of the Original Oktoberfest celebration in the Great Smoky Mountains. This must-visit fall festival returns October 1 through November 1, 2026, bringing authentic Bavarian tradition to one of Tennessee's top mountain destinations.Celebrate Oktoberfest in Gatlinburg with festive blue-and-white décor, vibrant fall foliage, and picture-perfect photo ops throughout the resort. Guests can enjoy live Oktoberfest bands on the outdoor stage, along with crowd-favorite stein-holding competitions that capture the spirit of a true Bavarian celebration.Take in breathtaking Smoky Mountain views from the mountaintop biergarten while sampling a curated selection of German beers from Yee-Haw Brewing Company. Pair your drinks with classic Oktoberfest food favorites like chicken schnitzel, bratwurst, turkey legs, and oversized pretzels. Don't miss seasonal desserts, including apple strudel, pumpkin fudge, and other sweet fall treats.Plan your fall getaway around Oktoberfest in Gatlinburg and discover why Ober Gatlinburg remains one of the top Oktoberfest festivals in Tennessee.

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Gatlinburg SkyPark Festival of Flags

Starts: 05/15/2026 - Ends: 07/05/2026

Celebrate America's 250th anniversary at the Festival of Flags at Gatlinburg SkyPark, home to the iconic Gatlinburg SkyBridge. This limited-time event runs from May 15 through July 5, offering one of the most patriotic experiences in Gatlinburg.

During the Festival of Flags, guests will witness a breathtaking display of the American flag, U.S. military flags, and all 50 state flags suspended high above the city from the SkyBridge. Set against the stunning backdrop of the Great Smoky Mountains, this one-of-a-kind installation creates a powerful tribute to the nation, perfectly timed to honor both Memorial Day and Flag Day.

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Smoky Mountain Sunrise

Starts: 10/03/2026 - Ends: 10/31/2026

Experience the best sunrise in Gatlinburg with a Sunrise Event at Gatlinburg SkyPark. Ticketed guests enjoy early access to the Gatlinburg SkyLift before dawn, ascending to breathtaking panoramic views of the Great Smoky Mountains and the city below.This exclusive Gatlinburg sunrise experience includes live music and a light breakfast featuring breakfast burritos, danishes, hashbrowns, coffee, tea, apple juice, and orange juice—plus a souvenir mug to take home. Your ticket also provides full-day access to top SkyPark attractions, including the Gatlinburg SkyBridge, SkyDeck, SkyTrail, SkyCenter, and Tulip Tower.Perfect for photography, special occasions, and proposals, this is widely considered one of the top things to do in Gatlinburg at sunrise. Tickets are limited and must be purchased online in advance. Enjoy the flexibility of all-day admission with the ability to leave and re-enter the park throughout operating hours.

United Tastes of America

Starts: 05/22/2026 - Ends: 08/09/2026

Experience a coast-to-coast culinary journey at Anakeesta's all-new food and drink festival. Sample flavors from across the United States while enjoying live entertainment and family-friendly activities for all ages—making it one of the most unique dining experiences in Gatlinburg.

Dollywood Smoky Mountain Summer Celebration

Starts: 06/15/2026 - Ends: 08/02/2026

Turn sunny days into unforgettable nights at Dollywood Parks and Resorts during the Smoky Mountain Summer Celebration presented by Food City. Experience longer days filled with vibrant color displays, soaring kites, and immersive summer sights throughout the park.Cool off with interactive fountains, sprinklers, and foam play zones, or catch the fan-favorite Gazillion Bubble Show – Evolution for high-energy family fun. Thrill-seekers can take on the award-winning Big Bear Mountain coaster, while families can enjoy music, dancing, and a lively nighttime party in Wildwood Grove.End your day with a spectacular fireworks and drone show lighting up the sky over the Great Smoky Mountains—the perfect finale to a full day of summer adventure.

We sell discounted Dollywood tickets on site. Ask at the Front Desk!

(Week 3) Four Halloween Weekends, Four Chapters, 1 Legend

Starts: 10/23/2026 - Ends: 10/25/2026

Four weekends. Four Chapters. One unforgettable Halloween adventure.This October, the shadows grow longer, the campfires burn brighter, and the mysteries of the Smokies awaken. Join us at Gatlinburg Smoky Mountain KOA for an epic four-week Halloween journey where each Friday unveils a brand-new chapter in an interactive story unlike anything you've experienced before.Our adventure continues October 23rd–25th with "Ghosts Warn Campers" Search for legendary artifacts, solve clues, play themed games, and become part of the unfolding story as you help uncover the secrets hidden within the shadows.At the Camp Store, every adventurer can pick up an official Halloween Passport. Throughout the month, complete challenges, participate in activities, and collect stamps as you progress through each chapter. Finish a weekend's quest to earn a commemorative certificate, and complete all four adventures to become a true Guardian of the Smokies.But an even greater mystery watches from the darkness.For generations, the legend of the Wampus Cat has been passed down through Cherokee folklore. Known as the mysterious guardian of the forest, she is said to roam beneath ancient trees where the oldest secrets of the Smokies are kept. When twilight swallows the mountain ridges and moonlight paints the water like liquid silver, some claim to see her glowing eyes peering from the shadows.As each weekend passes, the story will draw you deeper into the mystery. The spirits of Shadow Creek, forgotten relics, and ancient legends all seem connected to a force hidden within the mountains themselves. With every clue uncovered and every challenge completed, you'll move one step closer to the truth.Will the Wampus Cat remain hidden among the ancient trees?Or by the fourth and final weekend, will she finally reveal herself?Gather your family, decorate your campsite, and prepare for a month filled with mystery, adventure, legends, and Halloween magic.The mountains are calling. The shadows are stirring. The adventure begins this October at Gatlinburg Smoky Mountain KOA.Do you dare answer the call?

(Week 4) Four Halloween Weekends, Four Chapters, 1 Legend

Starts: 10/30/2026 - Ends: 11/01/2026

Four weekends. Four Chapters. One unforgettable Halloween adventure.This October, the shadows grow longer, the campfires burn brighter, and the mysteries of the Smokies awaken. Join us at Gatlinburg Smoky Mountain KOA for an epic four-week Halloween journey where each Friday unveils a brand-new chapter in an interactive story unlike anything you've experienced before.Our adventure comes to the finale October 30th–1st with "The Halloween Finale" Search for legendary artifacts, solve clues, play themed games, and become part of the unfolding story as you help uncover the secrets hidden within the shadows.At the Camp Store, every adventurer can pick up an official Halloween Passport. Throughout the month, complete challenges, participate in activities, and collect stamps as you progress through each chapter. Finish a weekend's quest to earn a commemorative certificate, and complete all four adventures to become a true Guardian of the Smokies.But an even greater mystery watches from the darkness.For generations, the legend of the Wampus Cat has been passed down through Cherokee folklore. Known as the mysterious guardian of the forest, she is said to roam beneath ancient trees where the oldest secrets of the Smokies are kept. When twilight swallows the mountain ridges and moonlight paints the water like liquid silver, some claim to see her glowing eyes peering from the shadows.As each weekend passes, the story will draw you deeper into the mystery. The spirits of Shadow Creek, forgotten relics, and ancient legends all seem connected to a force hidden within the mountains themselves. With every clue uncovered and every challenge completed, you'll move one step closer to the truth.Will the Wampus Cat remain hidden among the ancient trees?Or by the fourth and final weekend, will she finally reveal herself?Gather your family, decorate your campsite, and prepare for a month filled with mystery, adventure, legends, and Halloween magic.The mountains are calling. The shadows are stirring. The adventure begins this October at Gatlinburg Smoky Mountain KOA.Do you dare answer the call?

4th Of July 250 Years

Starts: 07/03/2026 - Ends: 07/05/2026

Let's Celebrate 250 Years of independance together. Join us for a festive weekend of smores, BBQ, Watermelon eating contest, Cornhole, Crafts and More.

(Week 2) Four Halloween Weekends, Four Chapters, 1 Legend

Starts: 10/16/2026 - Ends: 10/18/2026

Four weekends. Four Chapters. One unforgettable Halloween adventure.This October, the shadows grow longer, the campfires burn brighter, and the mysteries of the Smokies awaken. Join us at Gatlinburg Smoky Mountain KOA for an epic four-week Halloween journey where each Friday unveils a brand-new chapter in an interactive story unlike anything you've experienced before.Our adventure continues October 16th–18th with "Witches & Warlocks of the Smokies" Search for legendary artifacts, solve clues, play themed games, and become part of the unfolding story as you help uncover the secrets hidden within the shadows.At the Camp Store, every adventurer can pick up an official Halloween Passport. Throughout the month, complete challenges, participate in activities, and collect stamps as you progress through each chapter. Finish a weekend's quest to earn a commemorative certificate, and complete all four adventures to become a true Guardian of the Smokies.But an even greater mystery watches from the darkness.For generations, the legend of the Wampus Cat has been passed down through Cherokee folklore. Known as the mysterious guardian of the forest, she is said to roam beneath ancient trees where the oldest secrets of the Smokies are kept. When twilight swallows the mountain ridges and moonlight paints the water like liquid silver, some claim to see her glowing eyes peering from the shadows.As each weekend passes, the story will draw you deeper into the mystery. The spirits of Shadow Creek, forgotten relics, and ancient legends all seem connected to a force hidden within the mountains themselves. With every clue uncovered and every challenge completed, you'll move one step closer to the truth.Will the Wampus Cat remain hidden among the ancient trees?Or by the fourth and final weekend, will she finally reveal herself?Gather your family, decorate your campsite, and prepare for a month filled with mystery, adventure, legends, and Halloween magic.The mountains are calling. The shadows are stirring. The adventure begins this October at Gatlinburg Smoky Mountain KOA.Do you dare answer the call?

(Week 1) Four Halloween Weekends, Four Chapters, 1 Legend

Starts: 10/09/2026 - Ends: 10/11/2026

Four weekends. Four Chapters. One unforgettable Halloween adventure.This October, the shadows grow longer, the campfires burn brighter, and the mysteries of the Smokies awaken. Join us at Gatlinburg Smoky Mountain KOA for an epic four-week Halloween journey where each Friday unveils a brand-new chapter in an interactive story unlike anything you've experienced before.Our adventure begins October 9th–11th with "The Dead Rise From Shadow Creek." Strange happenings have been reported near the creek, and whispers of long-forgotten spirits echo through the mountains. Search for legendary artifacts, solve clues, play themed games, and become part of the unfolding story as you help uncover the secrets hidden within the shadows.At the Camp Store, every adventurer can pick up an official Halloween Passport. Throughout the month, complete challenges, participate in activities, and collect stamps as you progress through each chapter. Finish a weekend's quest to earn a commemorative certificate, and complete all four adventures to become a true Guardian of the Smokies.But an even greater mystery watches from the darkness.For generations, the legend of the Wampus Cat has been passed down through Cherokee folklore. Known as the mysterious guardian of the forest, she is said to roam beneath ancient trees where the oldest secrets of the Smokies are kept. When twilight swallows the mountain ridges and moonlight paints the water like liquid silver, some claim to see her glowing eyes peering from the shadows.As each weekend passes, the story will draw you deeper into the mystery. The spirits of Shadow Creek, forgotten relics, and ancient legends all seem connected to a force hidden within the mountains themselves. With every clue uncovered and every challenge completed, you'll move one step closer to the truth.Will the Wampus Cat remain hidden among the ancient trees?Or by the fourth and final weekend, will she finally reveal herself?Gather your family, decorate your campsite, and prepare for a month filled with mystery, adventure, legends, and Halloween magic.The mountains are calling. The shadows are stirring. The adventure begins this October at Gatlinburg Smoky Mountain KOA.Do you dare answer the call?

Smokey Mountain Bigfoot Weekend

Starts: 07/24/2026 - Ends: 07/26/2026

Join the excitement as Bigfoot Weekend comes to Gatlinburg Smokey Mountain KOA! Every year, Bigfoot enthusiasts travel from across the country to the Smoky Mountains in search of the legendary creature that has captured imaginations for generations.Spend the weekend exploring the legend for yourself. Follow the clues, search for signs of Bigfoot, gather around the campfire for s'mores, share your own mysterious encounters, and create Bigfoot-themed crafts with family and friends. As the sun sets and the mountains grow quiet, keep your eyes on the tree line—you never know who might wander into camp.Will you uncover evidence of the elusive Sasquatch, or will the mystery continue? There's only one way to find out. Pack your sense of adventure and join us for a weekend filled with laughter, memories, and a little Smoky Mountain magic.Who knows... Bigfoot just might stop by to say hello.