Say Hello to Autumn at the Smoky Mountain Harvest Festival

By Shelia Ogle There’s nothing like a change of seasons to refresh and exhilarate you. With the heat of summer behind us, it’s time to enjoy the crisp, cool morning air and vibrant colors of autumn, and there is no better place to kick off the season than the Great Smoky Mountains. Ancient Tradition Meets Modern Family Fun Harvest festivals have their roots in ancient times. Originally, it was a time to offer thanks for the bounty of the crops. Today’s festivals offer a blend of tradition and modern family fun for an unforgettable event everyone in your family will enjoy. The Smoky Mountain Harvest Festival begins in mid September and continues through October with concerts, fairs, and other special events. You’ll experience the best that Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, and the surrounding areas have to offer, no matter when you arrive. Get a head start on your Christmas shopping when you pick up a few one-of-a-kind gifts from local artists. The arts-and-crafts community of Gatlinburg is famous for its incredible treasures, including handcrafted quilts, beautifully turned wood bowls, stunning paintings, and handmade jewelry. Many of the skills these talented artisans posses are passed down from generation to generation, making the art they produce a tangible piece of history you will enjoy for years to come. Any time is a great time for shopping in the Smokies, but if you plan your trip between October 11 and October 28, 2012, be sure to head to the Gatlinburg Craftsman’s Fair. More than 200 artists bring their finest work to show during this juried event. Not only will you be able to purchase, but you’ll have a chance to watch the artisans work their magic. There’s plenty of exciting entertainment during the Harvest Festival as well. Local musicians perform regularly in area venues, giving you a taste of down-home bluegrass, gospel, and country and western music. The Fall Heritage Festival and Old Timers’ Day in Townsend starts September 28 and offers your family the opportunity to see what life was like for the area’s early settlers. You’ll learn to make apple butter, watch a blacksmith at work, and get a feel for the art and science of beekeeping. And if you have young children, you won’t want to miss the antique tractor show, featuring beautifully restored farm equipment guaranteed to delight every boy – and maybe even the girls. Of course, no trip to the Smoky Mountains is complete without spending some time simply enjoying the view. As the days grow shorter and the air turns crisp, the trees respond by putting on a show of their own. Brilliant oranges, yellows, and reds blanket the mountains, providing truly stunning views everywhere you look. Be sure to bring your camera along, because you’ll want to capture the amazing beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains in autumn. Now that the dog days of summer are behind us, and the holiday season is coming up fast, why not take a few days to enjoy the cool air and crisp scent of autumn in the Smoky Mountains? The Harvest Festival is a perfect excuse to pack up the kids for a weekend away, and with all the activities available, you’re sure to find something for everyone to enjoy.