An Event-Filled Late Summer

Posted by Phil Rodgers in Things to Do

We're experiencing a bit of a seasonal lull in the Smoky Mountains. Now that all the kids are headed back to school, the weekdays have slowed down a little bit, and things will likely stay that way until the fall colors begin showing up in October. Between now and then, however, there are still lots of good reasons to come play in Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge and Sevierville.

Or course, there are the mainstays that most folks are familiar with - things like attractions, arts and crafts, specialty retailers, outlet malls and a dizzying array of restaurants. For example, at Goats on the Roof, we have friends who come to see us (and our live goats on the roof) every year when they visit the Smokies. They also love our mountain coaster, gem mine and mini golf course.

But thanks to the wide range of special events hosted by local businesses as well as our three main municipalities, there's also a lot of fun happening in the form of special events. This week, we're going to share with you a rundown of some that you may want to keep an eye out for if you happen to be traveling in our area in the next couple of months.

Great Smoky Mountain Bronco Stampede

August 16 and 17

LeConte Center, Pigeon Forge

Whether you own a Ford Bronco or are thinking about getting one, this is the place to be. It's open to all Bronco enthusiasts and Bronco club members from around the country. The expo will also feature Bronco parts and accessories and small vendors who deal in Bronco and off-road-related products.

Great Smoky Mountain Hot Air Balloon Festival

August 17

Townsend Visitor Center, Townsend

You don't have to be an actual balloon pilot to enjoy the spectacle of this annual event. Professional balloonists will light up the sky that evening with the colorful glow of their aircraft. Imagine the spectrum of colors you'll see in the sky, set against the backdrop of a Tennessee sunset. This year's festival will also include family activities, live entertainment, craft demonstrations and vendors, a food court and a 20-minute laser light show.

Great Smoky Mountain Jeep Invasion

August 22 through 24

LeConte Center, Pigeon Forge

Here's another auto-centric show… The Jeep Invasion is both an indoor and outdoor event featuring an array of national, region and local Jeep-accessory vendors. Sponsored by the Smoky Mountain Jeep Club of Maryville, TN, the event is open to all Jeep enthusiasts. And we bet you'll be able to find plenty of ducks to put on your front dashboard.

The Mountain Music Festival

August 23 through 25

Gatlinburg Convention Center, Gatlinburg

Formerly known as Monsters on the Mountain, this rebranded festival offers up three days of rock music in downtown Gatlinburg. This year's headlining act is none other than Joan Jett and the Blackhearts!

Sevier County Fair

August 23 through September 2

Sevier County Fairgrounds, Sevierville

Everyone loves a good, old-fashioned country fair, and this particular event has been going strong in the Smokies for decades thanks to its true agricultural roots. Look for livestock shows, rides, games, free laser tag, nightly contests and much more. It's something all ages will enjoy.

Great Smoky Mountains Half Marathon & 5K

September 6 and 7

Talley Ho Inn, Townsend

If you're into running, this event is a must. Runners from all over the world come to the Smokies each year for this half marathon and 5K, both of which impress with their sweeping panoramic views of the Smoky Mountains and East Tennessee countryside. Show up and have fun, whether you're trying for a PR or just ready ready to enjoy a run in the mountains.

This content posted by Goats on the Roof of the Smoky Mountains. Visit our home page, goatsontheroofofthesmokies.com for more information on the goats and their coaster.

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