All the Details About Smoky Mountain Tunes and Tales Gatlinburg Event

Looking for the best free entertainment in the southeast this summer? Look no further than downtown Gatlinburg, where the annual Smoky Mountain Tunes and Tales has returned to give vacationers a highlight of Appalachian culture and history from some of the most talented performers in the country. You will be able to listen to amazing singers and instrumentalists perform in downtown Gatlinburg for free. Learn more about Smoky Mountain Tunes and Tales below:

About Smoky Mountain Tunes and Tales

Performers and artisans will be on the streets each day during this summer event wowing vacationers and locals with their talents as a part of Smoky Mountain Tunes and Tales. This event runs from June to July, with the dates changing every year. From one end of downtown Gatlinburg to the other, those visiting can see a variety of performers playing music and telling stories dating as far back as the 1880s. Music has been at the center of Smoky Mountain history since the first settlers arrived. To share some of the musical heritage, full groups, trios and duos will be performing mountain music. While walking through downtown, you’ll have the chance to hear Gospel, folk, country and bluegrass from a variety of characters. You’ll not only get to listen to music and storytelling, you’ll get to see people clogging and dancing.

Arts and Crafts

No historical Gatlinburg event is complete without the artisans and craftsmen of the Smoky Mountains. The Smokies have the largest number of independent craftsmen in the country, some of whom are third and fourth generation creators. Those who participate in Tunes and Tales will have the opportunity to share their craft with all the attendees.

If you arrive on Saturday or Sunday nights, you might see Spinnin’ Selma sitting downtown spinning yarn from her antique spinner. Quilt lovers will enjoy running into Sun Bonnet Sue, who will be helping children learn how to make “Church Dolls.”

They’re not the only ones who will be in downtown for this summer festival of talent. Award-winning Whittlin’ Joe (Otto Preske) will delight all with his wooden flowers and unique on-site carvings.

Storytelling

Just as music and crafts have been handed down to preserve the cultural heritage of mountain people, storytelling has also become a way to share the traditions of the Great Smoky Mountains. At the Smoky Mountain Tunes and Tales event in Gatlinburg, you might hear stories woven about local legends or traditional Appalachian tales. Each memorable story is one you’ll remember long after you return home from vacation. If you love hearing and learning about Gatlinburg history, this is the perfect event for you!

Where to Stay

Since there’s even more to see and do in Gatlinburg this summer, we recommend choosing a Gatlinburg cabin near downtown for shorter drives, and possibly even walk, to area attractions and restaurants. We offer a variety of log cabin options for guests including pet-friendly cabins and cabins with swimming pools, game rooms, and more. Plus, you’ll find some great deals on cabin rentals and area attractions when you book with us!