As we approach the busiest part of the hot summer days, a unique, celebration of handmade arts and crafts, plus music, food and fun should bring the crowds inside the Gatlinburg Craftsmen's Fair. From July 11-20, between the hours of 10 and 5 daily, the Gatlinburg Convention Center will be the site of the 50th Anniversary of the Gatlinburg Craftsmen’s Fair.
Bored with the sameness of some of the souvenir shops on the Parkway? This year’s Gatlinburg gathering of craftsmen from across the nation triggers shopping impulses for those thirsting for uniqueness. You’ll find live arts and crafts demonstrations, live music, rustic metal art, distinctive handmade jewelry, homemade candies, paintings, photography, hand-dipped candles, personal care products, and much more! All of these items are handcrafted right here in the U.S.A., and these folks will be here from all parts of the country setting up their wares in booths across the floor.
The live music provided is an excellent extra for your entertainment value during the 10-day event. Daily at 12 and 3, the Smoky Mountains’ very own Po’ Ramblin’ Boys will take the stage inside the Convention Center from July 14-17. This young band has made quite a splash since forming their band, playing gigs inside the Ole Smoky Moonshine Holler in Gatlinburg. They are now signed to a big-time, prestigious bluegrass label—Rounder Records—which has been operating for 55 years with a legendary lineup of Americana, folk, and bluegrass artists. The Boys’ “Toil, Tears, and Trouble” album was nominated for a Grammy for Best Bluegrass album, cementing their status as a band on top of their game.
While the Po’ Ramblin’ Boys are tough to equal, Mountain Highway and Misty River will also share the Gatlinburg Convention Center stage sandwiched around the main act.
Mountain Highway is a family band from Gatlinburg. Its style conjures up icons like Bill Monroe and Linda Ronstadt. The band is well known for playing festivals and fairs all over the Southern United States, including the seasonal, outdoor Smoky Mountain Tunes and Tales in downtown Gatlinburg.
Misty River is a local bluegrass band featuring Lisa Chambers on acoustic bass and vocals, Kenny Dodson on guitar and vocals, Doug Batchelor on mandolin and vocals, and Randy Watson on banjo and vocals. They will perform on the final days of the craft show from July 18-20, so hop off the street and into the Gatlinburg Convention Center for tons of talent taking the stage and floor.
Admission is once again $10, and if you go to the 500 Aisle office, you can get a complimentary multi-day pass, giving you free rein to visit for another day… or two… or all ten if you wish! Kids 17 and under will enjoy free admission and can make take-home crafts at the free kids’ craft area.
This is a great family value for your day of unique, handmade, and essential items you can buy from someone who will benefit personally. You can even strike up a conversation and easily become a regular customer, pairing a human face and personality with the product you’re purchasing.
Again, this highly anticipated show brings many visitors into the cool and out of the heat, humidity, and rain that a Tennessee July ushers in. We hope to see you all there enjoying the camaraderie of the occasion! (Taken from Gatlinburg Now post by Corey Wagner).
Category: Community | Fairs | Craft Fairs
Price:
General Admission: USD 10.00