The Townsend in the Smokies Fall Heritage Festival and Old Timer’s Day will be held September 23-24 at the Townsend Visitors Center (7906 E. Lamar Alexander Parkway) and offers visitors opportunities to experience firsthand some of the area’s great arts and crafts. From woodcarving to butter making, white oak shingle making to rug hooking, artisans from throughout East Tennessee and the southeast will be on hand to demonstrate their talents. The festival begins at 10 a.m. each day.

The festival includes bluegrass music from over 20 bands, food from more than a dozen vendors, dancing, shopping and Appalachian heritage at its finest. It also brings together visitors and locals to celebrate the fall season and the Great Smoky Mountains culture. Numerous other Appalachian activities, including antique tractors and historic demonstrations that showcase the region’s heritage, will be part of this year’s festival.

“We bring together some of the region’s top artisans and craftspeople to share a taste of Appalachia with our visitors,” said Jeff Muir, Blount Partnership communications director. “The best part is that after you learn about the heritage and history that goes into the art or craft or food, you can take home a one-of-a-kind souvenir that was handmade in Townsend to remember your visit.”

On-site demonstrations include apple butter making with David Mitchell, white oak shingle making by Sam White and cornmeal making by Ronald and Angel Fowler. Demonstrations in the exhibit room include rug hooking with Carol McBride and woodcarving with Lendel Abbott.

Authors Dr. Lin Stepp and Roy Oliver will be on hand. Stepp will autograph her book, “Saving Laurel Springs,” while Oliver will sign his book, “The Last Man From Tremont.”

Over 40 additional craftspeople will be showing and selling their arts and crafts. Visitors to the festival will be able to peruse handmade quilts, baskets, jewelry, soap, pottery, photography, dulcimers and artwork from the vendors.

The events are open to the public and a free shuttle service is offered to transport festival visitors to and from various places throughout Townsend. Shuttle’s stops include the Townsend Visitors Center, Jeepism, Trillium Cove, the Little River Railroad Museum, Cades Cove Cellars, Apple Valley Restaurant and Shops and the Great Smoky Mountain Heritage Center.

CHilhowee ARea Ministries (CHARM) will provide many children’s games and activities, in addition to displaying a miniature church filled with old photographs and stories.

The Cooper and Avery Fun Train also makes its first appearance for $3 per ride. This trackless train will make its way around the grounds, providing rides for children of all ages.

Parking is $8 per car per day with proceeds benefitting the Townsend Volunteer Fire Department. A two-day parking pass for $12 is also available on Friday, or a pre-paid pass for $10 order through the Blount Chamber at 865.983.2241 through Sept. 24.

For more information and a complete listing of crafters, food vendors, demonstrators and band list, log on to www.smokymountains.org.