It is officially springtime. Many who enjoy the mountain air and scenery offered in the Greater Smokies Region would agree that spring is a great time to kick off the festival season in East Tennessee. The weather in the Smokies can vary in the springtime, but most festivals take place rain or shine.

There are multiple communities in the Greater Smokies Region; including places like the ideal travel destination Townsend, which is a gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, and active Alcoa, which is nestled in the foothills near the mountains. This spring, choose your own adventure in attending regional festivals that celebrate heritage, sports, traditions, hobbies and more.

Upcoming Events:

Sip TN The Foothills Wine Festival: Sip and stroll at the Pellissippi State - Blount County campus (2731 W Lamar Alexander Pkwy, Friendsville, TN 37737) on April 12 for an immersive experience with locally produced wine, mead and cider. The event runs from noon to 5 p.m., and proceeds from the festival will stay local and benefit Tennessee agriculture as well as Pellissippi State students. All attendees must be at least 21 years old to enter.

Spring Sprint 5K Road Race & 1-mile Fun Run: This event on April 12 is the first in the series of the 2025 Healthy Blount Triple Crown of Running, and kicks off in Alcoa at the Springbrook Recreation Center (1537 Dalton St., Alcoa). Those wanting to participate in the road race and fun run can either register online or print out the registration form and turn it into Parks & Rec at 316 S. Everett High Rd. in Maryville.

Little River Railroad Days: If you’re interested in learning about the heritage of the region and how the railroad played a major part, look no further than the nonprofit, Little River Railroad and Lumber Company. They operate a museum (7747 E Lamar Alexander Pkwy, Townsend) that offers free admission. On April 12-13, the museum is hosting Little River Railroad Days for all to enjoy.

Super Bronco Celebration: Gathering in the Smokies since 2006, come see for yourself how Ford Bronco sport utility vehicle drivers and/or admirers celebrate. The four-day event is the world’s largest Bronco enthusiast gathering. There will be on-site activities, daily drives, awards, product giveaways, and more for participants. The event is happening April 23-26 at the Townsend Event Center (7930 E. Lamar Alexander Pkwy., Townsend).

Smoky Mountain Fiber Fair: Yarn, wool and fiber wheels won’t be the only things spinning at this event April 25-26 at the Great Smoky Mountains Heritage Center (123 Cromwell Dr., Townsend). With so many experienced fiber artists set to showcase how to create the fabrics of our lives and clothing, all kinds of minds will be reeling to learn about the trade and tools behind these crafts.

Smoky Mountain Bigfoot Festival: Don’t stop believing in the legend of the Bigfoot, or at least enjoy the company of those who do! The fifth annual Smoky Mountain Bigfoot Festival will feature Bigfoot competitions, guest speakers, live music, food trucks and more. It’s happening May 3, at the Townsend Event Center (7930 E. Lamar Alexander Pkwy., Townsend).

Kids Take Over the Museum: The Great Smoky Mountains Heritage Center (123 Cromwell Dr., Townsend is hosting a fun day for kids to enjoy on May 10. There will be plenty of children’s activities and opportunities for learning.

British Car Show: Fancy a day spent around British-made cars such as Jaguars, Land Rovers or Minis? Then this event on May 10 hosted by Blount British Cars, Ltd. may be your cup of tea. The British Car Show will be held on the grounds of the Talley Ho Inn (8314 TN-73, Townsend). 

Scottish Festival & Games: The state’s oldest Highland games festival will make the mountains echo with the sounds of piping and drumming, plus heavy athletics competitions and Highland dancing, to name a few. The 43rd Smoky Mountain Scottish Festival and Games event is happening May 17-18 at the Townsend Visitor’s Center (7906 E. Lamar Alexander Pkwy., Townsend).