The foothills of the Smoky Mountains come to life with bluegrass music, arts and crafts, time honored traditions and Appalachian cooking at the annual Townsend in the Smokies Spring Festival sponsored by Wild Laurel Golf Course, Townsend Great Smokies KOA, The Lily Barn, Townsend Abbey, and Little Arrow Outdoor Resort.
Scheduled for May 7-8, 2021, at the Smoky Mountain Visitor Center (7906 E. Lamar Alexander Pkwy.) in Townsend, the festival provides an atmosphere where family and friends of all ages can partake in time-honored Appalachian traditions at the free community event. Parking is $10 per day with proceeds benefiting the Townsend Volunteer Fire Department.
For convenience, a free shuttle service provides transportation to and from the different Townsend sites participating in the weekend’s festivities from 10:30 a.m.-6 p.m. both days.
“The spring festival provides an opportunity for our community to share the area’s history and heritage with families, friends and visitors. We all cherish our traditions, and there is no better way to celebrate them than to showcase them during the beautiful spring weather at the festival,” said Jim McBride, festival chair.
The festival centers around traditional and contemporary bluegrass and mountain music; along with clogging and square dancing; art and craft booths; numerous Appalachian demonstrations; old-fashioned kids’ games; and Southern food, such as fried pies and kettle corn.
In addition to all that is taking place at the visitor center, the Great Smoky Mountains Heritage Center (123 Cromwell Dr.) is playing host to the Tennessee Pottery Festival on May 8.
Festival goers can also take the opportunity to enjoy an interactive walking tour featuring a full-sized engine, coal and water tank at the Little River Railroad and Lumber Company Museum, as well as a unique shopping experience at Townsend’s downtown – Trillium Cove.
Whether you are searching for an Appalachian piece of artwork for your home, hungry for some delicious barbeque or just looking to enjoy the many bluegrass performances, there is just about something for everyone to enjoy at this special two-day event.