For current Road Condtions on Hwy 441 from Cherokee to Gatlinburg, call (865)436-1200 and dial ext. 631 for Road Conditions or to visit the National Park Road Closure web page Click Here!
The Gatlinburg Farmers Market will be opening for the 2012 season on Saturday May 19th. The Market will be open every Saturday thru October 15 from 8:30 until 11:30 am. You can find the Market at the Alamo Steakhouse parking lot (705 East Parkway).
The Gatlinburg Farmers Market is a great place to shop for local produce, including: tomatoes, cucumbers, zucchini, garlic, lettuce, kale, mustard greens, carrots, berries, peaches, and more. The selection changes with the seasons, so you never know what you might find! In addition to produce, you can find all sorts of other things: breads and baked goods, granola, honey, soap, plants, tea, and 
more! There are also weekly crafter demonstrations by local artists from Gatlinburg’s Arts and Crafts community. During special events there is live music and childrens’ crafts, as well as cooking and gardening demonstrations!
This will be the third year for the Gatlinburg Farmers Market and it has been a great success and help to the local community! We are hoping to see the Market grow even more this year!
Opening Day
We are really looking forward to Opening Day! Don’t forget to stop by on Saturday, May 19th, from 8:30 to 11:30 am for a special presentation by Sevier Couunty Area Master Gardeners Association called, How to Start a Garden. Saturday, there will also be a featured craft demonstration, Basket Making by Theresa Tyler.
Vendors
A number of vendors will be at the market each week.
The Gatlinburg Farmers Market is a dream and a vision to provide our residents and visitors with fresh, local produce for fair pricing while supporting and stimulating the local economy.
New vendors are being added every day, so there is sure to be a great assortment of locally grown and prepared foods to choose from!
This blog is sponsored in part by ERA In The Smokies Realty and Rentals located at 207 Parkway in Gatlinburg, TN. For more information on a Gatlinburg Cabin for your Smoky Mountain Vacation or all the reasons to move to the Smokies, call 1-800-309-0277. ERA In The Smokies is a leader in chalet and Log Cabin Rentals and Real Estate Sales in the Gatlinburg area.
Synchronous Fireflies 2012 ~ A truly amazing event!!
Every June, a unique phenomenon occurs in and around Great Smoky Mountains National Park: Synchronous Fireflies! This year, make plans to take part in this magical event held in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park from June 2, 2012 – June 10, 2012
Fireflies, also called lightning bugs, are actually beetles! The light is produced by chemicals and enzymes in their abdomens and is called “bio-luminescence”.
There are 14 different species of fireflies in the Park, but only one provides a stunning light show every year in mid-June for about 2 weeks. The Synchronous Firefly (Photinus carolinus) is the only species in North America whose individuals have the ability to flash in unison. The only other place in the world you can see this unique display is Southeast Asia.
Why Do They Flash?
Fireflies emit light to attract a mate. In most species of firefly, both males and females are capable of flashing. Each species has its own “flash-code” to help males find females of the their same species with which to mate. How and why these fireflies are able to flash synchronously is a more complicated question. Several researchers have studied these beetles in search of an answer. UConn researcher Andrew Moiseff has been trying to Unravel the Mystery of the Fireflies’ Flash for years. No one knows for sure why they flash together, but it is likely related to competition among males.
Viewing the Light Show!
There are lots of places to view the light show in and around Great Smoky Mountains National Park. According to Discover Life in America, these fireflies are found in every watershed in the park. The best places to view them are at the edges of moist wooded areas. The display starts at full dark, usually around 9:30 and lasts until about midnight.
One of the best places to see light show is at Elkmont Campground. From June 4-12, the road to Elkmont will be closed from 5 pm until midnight, but you can park at Sugarlands Visitor Center and take a Trolley to Elkmont for $1 round trip. Contact the Park for more information: 1-865-436-1200.
Fire Fly Etiquette
- Please use your flashlight as little as possible and cover it with blue or red cellophane -this light is not as bright and won’t disrupt the show for others.
Do not catch the fireflies; just like all other wildlife in the park, they are protected!- Stay on the trail.
- Take your trash with you out of the Park.
You can also help protect the fireflies and their habitat:
- Do not catch the fireflies.
- Stay on the trail at all times.
- Pack out all of your garbage.
Hope you are able to visit us in the Smokies this June and experience this natural wonder firsthand! Remember, this event is a sell out each year, so be sure to book your Gatlinburg cabin with ERA in the Smokies!
This blog is sponsored by ERA In The Smokies Realty and Rentals located at 207 Parkway in Gatlinburg. For more info. on a Gatlinburg Cabin for your Smoky Mountain Vacation or all the reasons to move to the Smokies, call 1-800-309-0277. ERA In The Smokies is a leader in chalet and Log Cabin Rentals and Real Estate Sales in the Gatlinburg area.
Dollywood’s Splash Country Opening May 19, 2012
Dollywood’s Splash Country is a water park located in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, adjacent to the Dollywood theme park. The park’s central theme rests around entertainer Dolly Parton’s childhood swimming in the rivers of the Great Smoky Mountains. Its season lasts from the end of May to the middle of September. This year, Dollywood’s Splash Counrty will be opening Saturday, May 19, 2012! Call ERA in the Smokies today to reserve your Gatlinburg cabin and plan your Dollywood and Dollywood’s Splash Country 2012 vacation now!
Both Dollywood and Dollywood’s Splash Country are co-owned by country music star Dolly Parton and the Herschend Family Entertainment Corporation.
Rides and Attractions
Non-Height Requirement Attractions
These rides have no height requirement, although not always gentle.
Bear Mountain Fire Tower – This is an outdoor multi-level children’s attraction that consist of seven slides and a large wooden bucket timed to dump approximately 300 gallons every few minutes.
The Cascades – This is a 8,000 sq ft (740 m2) area which contains a cascading waterfall, an active 20 ft (6.1 m) geyser, a swift body slide, a gangplank shaped shallow water slide, contoured seating, a zero-depth children’s play area with 25 interactive theming elements, and 24,000 sq ft (2,200 m2) of tiered deck space.
Down Bound Float Trip – This is an outdoor attraction is a 1,000 ft (300 m) lazy river.
Little Creek Falls – This outdoor attraction is strictly for children 48″ and under and contains a pool, slides, and activity structure.
Mountain Waves – This is an outdoor attraction consisting of a 25,000 sq ft (2,300 m2) wave pool.
[edit] Height-Requirement AttractionsBig Bear Plunge – This outdoor attraction allows Guests in groups of 3 or 4 to raft on a white water themed water slide.
The Butterfly – This is a double waterslide where Guests slide down 55 ft (17 m) and take a plunge in a butterfly-shaped pool and is the second fastest ride on the park.
Fire Tower Falls – This outdoor attraction consist of twin water slides which rise 70 feet (21 m) in the air and is the fastest ride on the property.
Mountain Scream – This outdoor attraction consists of three separate slides. Two of the slides are tunnel slides, and one is an open slide.
Mountain Twist – This is an outdoor attraction consisting of a 42 ft (13 m) long open slide where a single person slides down on a mat.
Raging River Rapids – This is an outdoor attraction where groups of 3 to 5 Guests can raft down a 700 ft (210 m) slide.
Slick Rock Racer – This multi-lane mat racer consists of 300 ft (91 m) long channels where single riders race up to 3 other riders in a race to the finish.
Swift Water Run – This outdoor attraction send riders around a cork screw funnel before sending them out through a tunnel into a 1.5 ft (0.46 m) deep run out.
Wild River Falls – This outdoor attraction consists of four slides where single or double riders zip down a fully or partially enclosed flume into a splash pool.
Food and beverage establishments
Brush Fire Grill – Located in front of Bear Mountain Fire Tower, this food establishment serves chicken cheese steak and grilled chicken sandwiches.
Depot Grill – Located beside Brush Fire Grill, this food establishment serves a selection of barbecue chicken and pork cooked in a unique steam locomotive-shaped barbecue.
Cascades Lemonade – Located in the Cascades, this beverage establishment serves frozen lemonade and a variety of other frozen drinks.
High Country Provisions – Located on the deck of Mountain Waves, this food establishment serves drinks and a variety of snacks and new for 2009 “philly cheese steaks”.
Low Country Snacks – Located in front of Riverside Trading Post, this food establishment serves bottled drinks, ice cream bars, and other snacks.
Campsite Grill – Located in front of Down Bound Float Trip, this food establishment has ample seating and offers a selection of hamburgers, garden burgers, chicken sandwiches and chicken tenders, specialty desserts such as strawberry shortcake and triple chocolate cake, and beverages.
Miss Mamie’s – Located behind Campsite Grill, this food establishment serves a selection of personal-pan pizzas and drinks.
Outpost Snacks – Located in front of Mountain Waves, this establishment offers a variety of hot dogs and chili along with nachos and drinks.
Uncle Elmer’s – Located behind Campsite Grill, this food establishment offers a selection of flatbread wraps filled with grilled or fried chicken and nachos and drinks.
Amenities
Shaded Rentals, Dollywood’s Splash Country offers sixteen Riverside / Waterside Retreats measuring approximately 14 ft (4.3 m) by 21 ft (6.4 m) that offer 200 sq ft (19 m2) of shaded space and an additional 100 sq ft (9.3 m2) of sun deck. Net drapes provide seclusion as Guests enjoy a 27 in (69 cm) satellite television (select programming), two ceiling fans, and a dining table with six dining chairs and four lounge chairs. A hospitality staff provides room service to each retreat, included in rental fee. Daily rental fees apply for up to twelve people (linens, food, beverages, and park admission are not included with rental fee). Smaller private shade structures, Canopies, are also available
Big River Pavilion is a groups facility with seating for up to 96 Guests. Open on three sides and having food service, drink stations, and restrooms, Big River Pavilion offers large groups a catered venue for company or family outings. Catering fees not included in park admission.
Riverside Trading Post sells souvenirs and most swimming supplies including towels, bathing suits, sunblock, swim diapers, etc.[4]
Dollywood’s Splash Country has a First Aid Station located near Big Bear Plunge with licensed medical personnel on duty at all times during operating hours.
Life jackets are provided free of charge to all Guests at convenient areas near Little Creek Falls, Mountain Waves and adjacent locker area, and the entrance of Down Bound Float Trip.
Tubes are provided at no additional charge for the wave pool, lazy river, and tube slides.
Showers, changing areas, restrooms, family restrooms, and baby care centers are readily available.
A limited number of strollers and wheelchairs are available for daily rental.
Daily locker rentals are available.
The park is staffed by an award-winning Jeff Ellis and Associates certified lifeguard team.
Splash Country History
Opened in May 2001 in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, Dolly’s Splash Country was an addition to the Dollywood Company’s theme park.
To decide on a name for the park, Dolly Parton held a contest to come up with the most original name. Parton received over 16,000 entries. John Torres’ entry won, and he and his family were rewarded with 5 years’ worth of seasonal passes and a canoe that was signed by Dolly Parton.
The park was built into the natural terrain of a 25 acres (100,000 m2) mountain area adjacent to Dollywood theme park. The park was a $20 million investment by the Dollywood Company. The park opened with attractions such, as Mountain Waves, Raging River Rapids, the Downbound Float Trip lazy river, Little Creek Falls, Wild River Falls, and the three body slides of the Mountain Scream.
In 2003, a $1.5 million, 2-acre (8,100 m2) expansion called Raintree Hollow opened featuring Soaker Springs, and Mountain Twist.
Dollywood’s Splash Country added Big Bear Ridge in 2004. In 2004, the park also changed its name from Dolly’s Splash Country to Dollywood’s Splash Country. Also new in 2004, the Riverside Retreats. Units measuring approximately 14 ft (4.3 m) by 21 ft (6.4 m) that offer 200 sq ft (19 m2) of shaded space and an additional 100-square-foot (9.3 m2) sun deck. Amenities of retreats includes ceiling fans, satellite television, and room service.
In 2005, the park opened the Bear Mountain Fire Tower.
Dollywood’s Splash Country added an attraction consisting of twin speed slides called Fire Tower Falls in 2006. In 2007, the park expanded by constructing The Cascades. Also this year, the park doubled its number of “retreats” to 16 by adding 8 Cascades retreats.
In 2008, the park added SwiftWater Run, a cork screw water slide, replacing the Soaker Springs area.
In 2010, Dollywood’s Splash Country added Slick Rock Racer, a four lane mat slide that spans 300 ft (91 m) in length. The ride starts with an initial dip to build speed, allowing riders to gain additional momentum, to propel them to the finish. This ride is a $1 million expansion, located between Mountain Twist and Raging River Rapids.
Awards
2001 – Dollywood’s Splash Country was named the World Water park Association’s Best New Water Park in America
2007 – Dollywood’s rthte45jww46j46j mthe Must-See Waterpark Award at the 2009 “International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions” (IAAPA) Expo in Las Vegas
For more information on Dollywood or Splash Country, visit the company website or wikipedia!
Dollywood’s Splash Country Opening May 19, 2012!
Dollywood’s Splash Country, “Creating Memories Worth Repeating”
| Dollywood’s Splash Country | ||
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| Dollywood’s Splash Country | ||
| Location | 2700 Dollywood Lane Pigeon Forge, TN 37863 | |
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| Website | http://www.dollywood.com/waterpark.aspx | |
| Operating season | May 19 – September 3, 2012′ (operating dates & hours Vary. Visit Official Website for more information.) | |
| Size | 35 Acres | |
| Attractions | ||
| Attractions |
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| Slogan | “Creating Memories Worth Repeating.” | |
 Amusement Parks Portal |
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Fun at a waterpark in a wave pool
Dollywood’s Splash Country is a water park located in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, adjacent to the Dollywood theme park. The park’s central theme rests around entertainer Dolly Parton’s childhood swimming in the rivers of the Great Smoky Mountains. Its season lasts from the end of May to the middle of September.[1]
Both Dollywood and Dollywood’s Splash Country are co-owned by country music star Dolly Parton and the Herschend Family Entertainment Corporation.
Contents[show] |
[edit] Rides and Attractions
[edit] Non-Height Requirement Attractions
These rides have no height requirement, although not always gentle.
- Bear Mountain Fire Tower – This is an outdoor multi-level children’s attraction that consist of seven slides and a large wooden bucket timed to dump approximately 300 gallons every few minutes.
- The Cascades – This is a 8,000 sq ft (740 m2) area which contains a cascading waterfall, an active 20 ft (6.1 m) geyser, a swift body slide, a gangplank shaped shallow water slide, contoured seating, a zero-depth children’s play area with 25 interactive theming elements, and 24,000 sq ft (2,200 m2) of tiered deck space.
- Down Bound Float Trip – This is an outdoor attraction is a 1,000 ft (300 m) lazy river.
- Little Creek Falls – This outdoor attraction is strictly for children 48″ and under and contains a pool, slides, and activity structure.
- Mountain Waves – This is an outdoor attraction consisting of a 25,000 sq ft (2,300 m2) wave pool.
[edit] Height-Requirement Attractions
- Big Bear Plunge – This outdoor attraction allows Guests in groups of 3 or 4 to raft on a white water themed water slide.
- The Butterfly – This is a double waterslide where Guests slide down 55 ft (17 m) and take a plunge in a butterfly-shaped pool and is the second fastest ride on the park.
- Fire Tower Falls – This outdoor attraction consist of twin water slides which rise 70 feet (21 m) in the air and is the fastest ride on the property.
- Mountain Scream – This outdoor attraction consists of three separate slides. Two of the slides are tunnel slides, and one is an open slide.
- Mountain Twist – This is an outdoor attraction consisting of a 42 ft (13 m) long open slide where a single person slides down on a mat.
- Raging River Rapids – This is an outdoor attraction where groups of 3 to 5 Guests can raft down a 700 ft (210 m) slide.
- Slick Rock Racer – This multi-lane mat racer consists of 300 ft (91 m) long channels where single riders race up to 3 other riders in a race to the finish.
- Swift Water Run – This outdoor attraction send riders around a cork screw funnel before sending them out through a tunnel into a 1.5 ft (0.46 m) deep run out.
- Wild River Falls – This outdoor attraction consists of four slides where single or double riders zip down a fully or partially enclosed flume into a splash pool.
[edit] Food and beverage establishments
- Brush Fire Grill – Located in front of Bear Mountain Fire Tower, this food establishment serves chicken cheese steak and grilled chicken sandwiches.
- Depot Grill – Located beside Brush Fire Grill, this food establishment serves a selection of barbecue chicken and pork cooked in a unique steam locomotive-shaped barbecue.
- Cascades Lemonade – Located in the Cascades, this beverage establishment serves frozen lemonade and a variety of other frozen drinks.
- High Country Provisions – Located on the deck of Mountain Waves, this food establishment serves drinks and a variety of snacks and new for 2009 “philly cheese steaks”.
- Low Country Snacks – Located in front of Riverside Trading Post, this food establishment serves bottled drinks, ice cream bars, and other snacks.
- Campsite Grill – Located in front of Down Bound Float Trip, this food establishment has ample seating and offers a selection of hamburgers, garden burgers, chicken sandwiches and chicken tenders, specialty desserts such as strawberry shortcake and triple chocolate cake, and beverages.
- Miss Mamie’s – Located behind Campsite Grill, this food establishment serves a selection of personal-pan pizzas and drinks.
- Outpost Snacks – Located in front of Mountain Waves, this establishment offers a variety of hot dogs and chili along with nachos and drinks.
- Uncle Elmer’s – Located behind Campsite Grill, this food establishment offers a selection of flatbread wraps filled with grilled or fried chicken and nachos and drinks.
[edit] Amenities
- Shaded Rentals, Dollywood’s Splash Country offers sixteen Riverside / Waterside Retreats measuring approximately 14 ft (4.3 m) by 21 ft (6.4 m) that offer 200 sq ft (19 m2) of shaded space and an additional 100 sq ft (9.3 m2) of sun deck. Net drapes provide seclusion as Guests enjoy a 27 in (69 cm) satellite television (select programming), two ceiling fans, and a dining table with six dining chairs and four lounge chairs. A hospitality staff provides room service to each retreat, included in rental fee. Daily rental fees apply for up to twelve people (linens, food, beverages, and park admission are not included with rental fee). Smaller private shade structures, Canopies, are also available.[2]
- Big River Pavilion is a groups facility with seating for up to 96 Guests. Open on three sides and having food service, drink stations, and restrooms, Big River Pavilion offers large groups a catered venue for company or family outings. Catering fees not included in park admission.[3]
- Riverside Trading Post sells souvenirs and most swimming supplies including towels, bathing suits, sunblock, swim diapers, etc.[4]
Dollywood’s Splash Country has a First Aid Station located near Big Bear Plunge with licensed medical personnel on duty at all times during operating hours.[5]
Life jackets are provided free of charge to all Guests at convenient areas near Little Creek Falls, Mountain Waves and adjacent locker area, and the entrance of Down Bound Float Trip.[5]
Tubes are provided at no additional charge for the wave pool, lazy river, and tube slides.[5]
Showers, changing areas, restrooms, family restrooms, and baby care centers are readily available.[5]
A limited number of strollers and wheelchairs are available for daily rental.[5]
Daily locker rentals are available.[5]
The park is staffed by an award-winning Jeff Ellis and Associates certified lifeguard team.
[edit] History
Opened in May 2001 in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, Dolly’s Splash Country was an addition to the Dollywood Company’s theme park.
To decide on a name for the park, Dolly Parton held a contest to come up with the most original name. Parton received over 16,000 entries. John Torres’ entry won, and he and his family were rewarded with 5 years’ worth of seasonal passes and a canoe that was signed by Dolly Parton.
The park was built into the natural terrain of a 25 acres (100,000 m2) mountain area adjacent to Dollywood theme park. The park was a $20 million investment by the Dollywood Company. The park opened with attractions such, as Mountain Waves, Raging River Rapids, the Downbound Float Trip lazy river, Little Creek Falls, Wild River Falls, and the three body slides of the Mountain Scream.
In 2003, a $1.5 million, 2-acre (8,100 m2) expansion called Raintree Hollow opened featuring Soaker Springs, and Mountain Twist.
Dollywood’s Splash Country added Big Bear Ridge in 2004. In 2004, the park also changed its name from Dolly’s Splash Country to Dollywood’s Splash Country. Also new in 2004, the Riverside Retreats. Units measuring approximately 14 ft (4.3 m) by 21 ft (6.4 m) that offer 200 sq ft (19 m2) of shaded space and an additional 100-square-foot (9.3 m2) sun deck. Amenities of retreats includes ceiling fans, satellite television, and room service.
In 2005, the park opened the Bear Mountain Fire Tower.
Dollywood’s Splash Country added an attraction consisting of twin speed slides called Fire Tower Falls in 2006. In 2007, the park expanded by constructing The Cascades. Also this year, the park doubled its number of “retreats” to 16 by adding 8 Cascades retreats.
In 2008, the park added SwiftWater Run, a cork screw water slide, replacing the Soaker Springs area.
In 2010, Dollywood’s Splash Country added Slick Rock Racer, a four lane mat slide that spans 300 ft (91 m) in length. The ride starts with an initial dip to build speed, allowing riders to gain additional momentum, to propel them to the finish. This ride is a $1 million expansion, located between Mountain Twist and Raging River Rapids.
[edit] Awards
- 2001- Dollywood’s Splash Country was named the World Water park Association’s Best New Water Park in America
- 2007 – Dollywood’s rthte45jww46j46j mthe Must-See Waterpark Award at the 2009 “International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions” (IAAPA) Expo in Las Vegas.[6]
[edit] References
- ^ Operating Dates and Hours, Dollywood’s Splash Country’s Hours and Dates of Operation.
- ^ Shaded Rentals, Shaded Rentals at Dollywood’s Splash Country.
- ^ Big River Pavilion, Large Group Outings at Dollywood’s Splash Country.
- ^ Riverside Trading Post, Shopping at Dollywood’s Splash Country.
- ^ a b c d e f Dollywood Splash Country Frequently Asked Questions
- ^ Dollywood’s Splash Country Wins IAAPA’s Must-See Waterpark Award.
[edit] External links
Bloomin’ BBQ & Bluegrass Sevierville 2012
Bloomin’ BBQ & Bluegrass is a family oriented event celebrating the beauty of spring, championship barbecue and world class bluegrass music. This year the festivities take place on Friday and Saturday, May 18 and 19 in historic downtown Sevierville.
The most amazing part of this festival is that it is FREE!
“Bloomin’ BBQ & Bluegrass is shaking things up! We’re adding in more food vendors, more crafters and more fun! Make your way around the courthouse square enjoying live performances, craft demonstrations and lots of delicious foods. Meet fun characters from Titanic Museum Attraction, Smokies Baseball and more and see amazing performances from Cirque de Chine, Lumberjack Feud and other great shows.
As always, Bloomin’ BBQ & Bluegrass will bring the best in food, music and family entertainment to downtown Sevierville. Visit with cook teams participating in the Bush’s Best Tennessee State Championship Cook-Off and hear great bluegrass music (can we link back to the Bluegrass Bands page) from bands like Blue Moon Rising, Jimbo Whaley, Junior Sisk and even Sam Bush.”
Bluegrass
I attended this event last year and had a great time! Last year’s headliner was Dan Tyminsky, best known for playing with Allison Krauss and Union Station. This year Sam Bush will be performing at 8 pm on Saturday.
Friday, May 20, 2011
5:00 pm: Jerry Butler & The Blu-J’s
“Jerry Butler & The Blu-J’s are bluegrass festival favorites. Their repertoire consists of original and traditional bluegrass songs, familiar classic country songs and heartfelt gospel. Fans will enjoy the energy, fresh sound and entertaining show this group brings to the stage. “We just want the folks in attendance to have a good time with us, laugh, cry, sing along, whatever they’re feeling at the time. When we’re done we want them to be able to say ‘now that was fun’.””
6:00 pm: “Just Us” Bluegrass Band is an exciting band based out of East Tennessee. The band was formed in September of 2006 and has played many venues around Tennessee, Georgia, Kentucky and Alabama. The members of “Just Us” has many years of on stage experience and has the ability to perform many different styles of music including contemporary, traditional and gospel with that added bluegrass flair. The band prides itself with strong vocals, tight harmonies and solid picking.
7:00 pm: Jimbo Whaley & Greenbriar
“Singer and songwriter, Jimbo Whaley grew up in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, at the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains with music always being a part of his life. Whaley has pulled so many memories reflecting that upbringing and written numerous songs including: The Foundation, M.R.s Rolling Store, The Legend of Jack Huff, and the fan favorite, The Kings of Orebank. Jimbo currently performs with the bluegrass band Greenbrier…”
8:00 pm: ” The Quebe Sisiters Band”
When Grace, Sophia and Hulda Quebe (pronounced Kway-bee) raise their fiddles and play, audiences marvel. When the girls sing their vintage style three-part harmony, audiences are blown away. Add the extraordinary rhythm guitar of Joey McKenzie and the swinging upright bass of Drew Phelps and the Quebe Sisters Band becomes a force of nature. The QSB’s unique brand of music has taken the Americana music scene by storm. They perform a refreshing blend of western swing, vintage country, bluegrass, jazz & swing standards, and Texas style fiddling.
Saturday, May 21, 2011
1:00 pm: Mountain Ruckus
Mountain Ruckus is the band that plays the pre-show in the “Cabin Room” at Dolly’s Dixie Stampede. You know they’re good! “Some members of Mountain Ruckus have included Gary “Biscuit” Davis who was Dolly Parton’s band leader and produced her cd’s The Grass Is Blue and Live and Well, and YouTube Celebrity Kata Hay.”
2:00 & 5:00 ”Ken Mellons”
Ken is back where he began and couldn’t be happier “Bluegrass has always been a part of my life, ever since I was a kid. In a way bluegrass music for me is like opening an old photo album full of memories from my childhood. I can’t wait to develop the next roll of pictures and add them to my album.”……Ken Mellons
4:00 & 7:00 pm: Rockin Acoustic Circus
“Junior Sisk And Ramblers Choice are gaining great recognition as one of the best traditional bluegrass bands to hit the scene in decades. Junior’s soulful and sometimes haunting vocals, reminiscent of the late, great, Carter Stanley, who happens to be his hero, have captivated audiences for years. With the brand new release of their sophomore project on Rebel Records, “Heartaches And Dreams”, the band has once again captured something magical. The pleasant mix of old and new is sure to offer something here for everyone. Joining Junior is long time singing partner and cousin Timmy Massey on bass, along with band members Jason Davis on banjo, Jason Tomlin on mandolin, and Billy Hawks on fiddle.”
8:00 pm: “The Travelin McCoureys”
The Travelin McCourys are the latest incarnation of the most awarded band in the history of bluegrass – The Del McCoury Band. Keller Williams is known as one of the most innovative solo singer/songwriters of this generation. What happens when the two join forces? The live stage may never be the same. Brought together by equal parts mutual admiration and the desire to change the musical landscape while staying true to their roots, The Travelin’ McCourys and Keller Williams are a perfect – albeit unexpected – fit. The two have a lot in common after all: Their high energy, ever evolving live shows, their individual playing prowess and their strong and unique song writing skills. Fans are most used to seeing Keller sans a band – just him and a guitar with or without his signature live looping technique. For The Travelin’ McCourys Featuring Keller Williams, fans will see Keller playing his music with one of the best live bands on the touring circuit. McCoury fans, used to seeing the boys tour with Del in the lead, will now get to see them playing their songs with Keller on guitar. It’s a perfect marriage of instrumental virtuosos, memorable songwriting, infectious musical camaraderie, and undeniable energy. And with both acts known to bring epic and spontaneous live collaborations to theaters and festivals across American – The Travelin’ McCourys Featuring Keller Williams will take this collaborative spirit one step further, promising to bring something fresh and unexpected to the live stage.
BBQ
“During Bloomin’ Barbeque & Bluegrass, Sevierville plays host to barbecue cook teams from all across the United States. If you’ve never tasted award-winning competition barbecue, you’re in for a treat.” Food vendors will include local teams such as The Firehouse Smokers TN of Sevierville, Seymour Smokers of Seymour, and the Smoky Mountain Smokers also of Sevierville, as well as teams from all over Tennessee, West Virginia, Alabama, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Kentucky! There will also be a burger cook-off for the kids!
This blog is sponsored in part by ERA In The Smokies Realty and Rentals located at 207 Parkway in Gatlinburg, TN. For more information on a Gatlinburg Cabin for your Smoky Mountain Vacation or all the reasons to move to the Smokies, call 1-800-309-0277. ERA In The Smokies is a leader in chalet and Log Cabin Rentals and Real Estate Sales in the Gatlinburg area.
Mother’s Day 2012
Mother’s Day is Sunday, May 13, 2012, and with that date, less than two weeks away, it is time to get those Mother’s Day plans ready! Have you missed the last couple of Mother’s Days, and you need to make it up to your mom? Or is your mother just so wonderful that she needs an extra special celebration this year? When a card or a phone call simply isn’t enough, try some of these ideas!
Weekend Getaway!
Surprise your mother this year with a weekend getaway to Gatlinburg! What could delight your mother more than a weekend of pampering, surrounded by the beauty of the Smoky Mountains?! Reserve a cozy cabin for her, where she can relax in the hot tub, enjoy views of the mountains, and then let someone else clean up when she leaves! While you’re at it, make it a long weekend! ERA in the Smokies is offering the 3rd night half price in any of our cabins, chalets, and condos!
The Perfect Meal
Or two or three! If you send her for a weekend getaway in a cabin in Gatlinburg, she’ll have tons of delicious restaurant choices at her fingertips… finally no dishes! Or if she really likes to cook, each cabin and chalet has a kitchen fully stocked with dishes, pots, and pans! And if you’re going to be with her on mother’s day, why don’t YOU cook her the perfect meal AND do the dishes afterward!
Baskets and Bouquets!
Or course there’s the old stand by… various kinds of gift baskets- fruit baskets, cheese and meat baskets, gourmet coffee baskets, s’mores kit baskets, pet lover baskets, outdoors baskets, etc. And then there’s about as many bouquets to choose from… besides all the different kinds of flowers, you also have cookie bouquets, candy bouquets, and who knows what else! For a nice touch have one waiting in her cabin for her!
Pamper Your Mother!
What would a Mother’s Day Weekend be without some pampering for the one who took care of you all those years (and still is!)? Pay for a day at a spa, have a massage therapist come to her cabin to give her a massage. You can even choose a cabin with an indoor sauna! Most cabins also have an outdoor hot tub, and some even have an indoor jacuzzi, where she can relax in the privacy of her bedroom, or perhaps by the fireplace!
Shopping
In my experience, most mothers love to shop! So take your mother on a shopping spree! And what better place than Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge. Gatlinburg is packed with quaint shops of all shapes and sizes, and let’s not forget the outlet malls of Pigeon Forge! It’s more than enough to keep any shopaholic happy for days!
Shows and Other Attractions!
Laughter is the best medicine! If your mother has been stressed or burdened with something lately, take her to one of Gatlinburg or Pigeon Forge’s exceptional shows- there are musical performances, comedies, cultural experiences, and more! If your mother, like mine, craves adventure, take her white water rafting, or on a Hummer tour, or let her try the zipline, or the Zorb! If your mother enjoys nature, take her for a day in the National Park- hike out to a waterfall, have a picnic by the stream, drive through the Loop in Cades Cove and view all the wildlife!
Here’s your chance to be the perfect child, and give your mom the perfect Mother’s Day!
This blog is sponsored by ERA In The Smokies Realty and Rentals located at 207 Parkway in Gatlinburg. For more info. on a Gatlinburg Cabin for your Smoky Mountain Vacation or all the reasons to move to the Smokies, call 1-800-309-0277. ERA In The Smokies is a leader in chalet and Log Cabin Rentals and Real Estate Sales in the Gatlinburg area.
New Cabin: Red Hawk Lodge
Red Hawk Lodge is a charming wood chalet with a gorgeous mountain view! Just a few minutes from the main Parkway, this rental has access to community pools, tennis courts, and more. Outfitted with care and style, this cabin’s upscale furnishings, appliances, and decor make you feel like you’re right at home in the home you always dreamed of! Enjoy a shuffleboard table, poker table, wireless internet, 50″ Plasma TV’s, 2 gas fireplaces, and more. A covered outdoor hot tub provides plenty of chances for a luxurious soak no matter the weather.
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| This blog is sponsored in part by ERA In The Smokies Realty and Rentals located at 207 Parkway in Gatlinburg, TN. For more information on a Gatlinburg Cabin for your Smoky Mountain Vacation or all the reasons to move to the Smokies, call 1-800-309-0277. ERA In The Smokies is a leader in chalet and Log Cabin Rentals and Real Estate Sales in the Gatlinburg area. |
A Walk on the North Side through Gatlinburg, TN
If you plan on visiting Gatlinburg, Tennessee, make sure to attend an event called Walk on the North Side. This small mountain village provides a great opportunity for you to get out of your car and walk. Enjoy the beautiful atmosphere while strolling through Gatlinburg. There are numerous shops and eateries that are only footsteps away.
When planning your trip, consider staying in a Gatlinburg cabin. This quaint town is the perfect place for a relaxing trip. The Walk on the North Side occurs on the fourth weekend of every month. Make sure to plan your trip accordingly. This event features unique shopping, live entertainment and skill demonstrations. Along with that, the event also hosts children’s activities.
Gatlinburg plans special events throughout the Parkway. For example, there may be wine tastings and artist demonstrations. If you enjoy walking, Gatlinburg is the place to be on the fourth weekend of every month. It’s a picturesque town that has plenty of activities.
Call ERA in the Smokies today to reserve your Gatlinburg Cabin so that you too can take part in the Gatlinburg Walk on the North Side activities!
Gatlinburg’s 2012 Smoky Mountain Summer Series
This summer, treat the family to a Gatlinburg vacation experience without even packing a suitcase. The City of Gatlinburg is bringing the Smoky Mountain summer experience to three cities: Louisville, KY; Cincinnati, OH; and Atlanta, GA with the 2012 Smoky Mountain Summer Series.
Each of these events will give everyone in your family a free and unique outdoor summer experience. You and your kids will have the chance to scale new heights on a rock wall, see Shivers the Penguin from Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies, and even meet Gatlinburg’s very own Zeno the Bear. When was the last time you got to say you’d met a black bear?
Additionally, there will be a stuffed black bear building station at each of these events, where your children can create and take home their very own Gatlinburg mascot. Or, if they choose, they can donate it to be taken to a local children’s hospital and make someone’s day a little brighter.
There will also be a chance for you to enter to win giveaways from Ober Gatlinburg, Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies, Gatlinburg Attractions Association, Smoky Mountain Outdoors, The Edgewater Hotel, The Park Vista, Greystone Lodge at the Aquarium, Clarion Inn & Suites, Hilton Garden Inn Downtown, Ole Smoky Candy Kitchen and the Gatlinburg Chamber of Commerce. That way, your family can visit the irresistibly charming mountain getaway in its full glory. And, having met Zeno, you’ll already be prepared if you happen to meet any of his cousins while you’re there.
Please join us for a free, one-of-a-kind Smoky Mountain summer experience during the following events:
Louisville Thunder Over Louisville
Date: April 21
Time: All Day
Event Location: Ford’s Thunder on the Ground Waterfront Park on the South Great Lawn
Cincinnati
Cincinnati Reds vs. Washington Nationals baseball games
Date: May 12-13
Location: Inside the Great American Ball Park stadium’s Fan Zone Atlanta Atlanta Braves vs. Washington Nationals baseball games
Date: May 25-27
Location: Just outside Turner Field stadium
“Gatlinburg is your summer adventure playground of endless opportunities to make memories – you have never been closer to the outdoor adventure, majestic scenery and family-fun entertainment,” said Jim Davis, Gatlinburg Public Relations Coordinator. Remember, these events are free to the public, and are sure to be a Smoky Mountain experience that will start your summer off on the right paw!
Smoky Mountain Wildflower Pilgrimage 2012
Join us in Gatlinburg as we celebrate the beauty of spring at the 62nd annual Wildflower Pilgrimage!
The 62nd Smoky Mountain Wildflower Pilgrimage is a 4 day event offering 134 professionally guided walks and indoor presentations which explore the region’s rich wildflowers, fauna, ecology, cultural and natural history.
Most programs are conducted on the trails in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, while indoor offerings are held in Mills Conference Center and Sugarlands Training Room in Gatlinburg, Tennessee. All programs will be held rain or shine.
The 2012 Smoky Mountain Wildflower Pilgrimage will be held from April 25th through April 28, 2012. Online registration just started! Plan your trip to Gatlinburg now!
Programs
Wednesday through Saturday, there are all sorts of walks and hikes scheduled, with something for everyone! Take a short easy walk on the Cove Hardwood Nature Trail, a wildflower hotspot (program #3). If you are up for something more rigorous, sign up for the Road Prong Trail Wildflower Hike (program #23), a 5-mile moderate to strenuous trek starting at Newfound Gap.
Be prepared and download a printable Wildflower Checklist.
If you would like to learn about something other than wildflowers, there are plenty of opportunities for that too! Take a Fern Walk (programs 4, 58, 70, 123), a Bugs and Butterflies Walk (program #s 41, 75, 78), or a Black Bear and Wild Hog Walk (programs: 32, 66, 106).
Interested in history? Maybe you should sign up for Cultural History Walk (program #s18, 36, 45, 69, 79, 95, 116). Download a 2012 Wildflower Pilgrimage brochure to see the full schedule of hikes and workshops offered.
Exhibits, Artists & Merchants
A gallery of exhibitors, artists, native plant vendors, and merchants located in Mills Conference Center will be open to the public during the pilgrimage at the followinghours:Tuesday 5:00 PM–9:00 PM
Wednesday–Friday 8:00 AM–9:00 PM
Saturday 8:00 AM–Noon
Photography Competition
Photographers are invited to enter the 2012 photography competition. Entry categories include: 1. Flora 2. Fauna 3. Landscape 4. Youth Produced.
Winners for each category will be determined by the votes of registered pilgrims.
Registration
On Site Registration:
On-site registration will be held at Mills Conference Center, April 24-28, at the following times:
Tuesday 5 PM–9 PM
Wednesday–Friday 7 AM–1 PM & 5 PM–7:30 PM
Saturday 7 AM–12 PM
Please have your program choices and alternative selections, as well as your credit card information, in hand when you register on-site. A handy “Program Planner” is available on page to record your program choices.
Registration Fees:
All events are covered by the following registration fees, except for Wednesday’s luncheon event, program number 9. This event costs $25.00 and registration is not required to attend.
Adults
$50 for one day
$75.00 for two or more days
Students
$10 for one or more days (high school/colldge status will be verified at on-site registration with school id required)
Children under 12
Free (must be accompanied by a registered adult. All children must be registered for the program they are attending)
Payment:
Payment may be made with Visa, MasterCard, American Express, or Discover credit cards (cash or check at on-site registration only).
Refunds are NOT provided and your fees will be used as a contribution to help support this event.
Register Now!
This blog is sponsored by ERA In The Smokies Realty and Rentals located at 207 Parkway in Gatlinburg. For more info. on a Gatlinburg Cabin for your Smoky Mountain Vacation or all the reasons to move to the Smokies, call 1-800-309-0277. ERA In The Smokies is a leader in chalet and Log Cabin Rentals and Real Estate Sales in the Gatlinburg area.
