Wednesday, March 19, 2014

A Mountain Quiltfest and Festival of the Nations 2014


Yes indeed, this week is the week the special events and the "visitor's season" comes back to the Smokies. We have two big events going on within 7 minutes of each other in Pigeon Forge.

The first starts today, 3/19, and goes on to 3/22 with the "A Mountain Quiltfest" going on at the LeConte Conference Center in downtown Pigeon Forge. This is, to put it simply, a huge quilt festival, but it is surprisingly popular and very enriching, whether you're a fan of Appalachian culture or not. Lots of beautiful works of art will be on display, and those initiated can find quilting workshops to learn professional skills, plus there will be a quilting contest with a prize of $20,000 at stake. Yes, quilting is serious business here in the Smokies!

And then on Friday, 3/22, is the grand opening for the 2014 season of Dollywood with perennial favorite "Festival of the Nations" opening the revelry. This year the headlining act is "Mother Africa", at the main theater on park, while many newer performers play at venues throughout alongside returning favorites like Zambia Vocal Group and Atahualpa coming back again. You better believe this is the real start to Spring in the Smokies!

Both are no more than 20 minutes driving distance from Cove Mountain, and wouldn't you love to have one of our luxury cabins to go home to after an awesome day at Dollywood or downtown Pigeon Forge? Not sure? Take a look at our houses at www.covemountain.com and see for yourself!

Wednesday, March 12, 2014

New Wears Activity Coming for Spring and Summer

A press release from GSM Outfitters here in Wears Valley.

WEARS VALLEY, TN – A brand new program opens up in the heart of the Tennessee Smoky Mountains allowing locals and visitors to better understand and appreciate the nature of the Appalachians in our region. This program is a collaboration between the owners of GSM Outfitters in Wears Valley, and wildlife biologist Liz Domingue.

“Just Get Outdoors!” will feature lectures, workshops, interactive activities for kids, photography and much more. Day and evening classes will be available. The following is a list of the classes and activities scheduled:

* Wildflowers, Wildflowers, Wildflowers!
April 10, 2014

* Wildflower Walk With a Naturalist
April 11, 2014

* Nature Photography Workshop
May 24, 2014

* Salamander Capital of the World!
July 25, 2014

* Salamander Foray
July 26, 2014

Group size will be small and space is limited. Participants will be asked to arrive 15 minutes ahead of time, to bring their own lunch and drinks and rainwear. Hiking boots also recommended.

To sign up for the outings and evening programs, contact Michael or Heather at 865-366-2608 or at Michael@gsmoutfitters.comcastbiz.net.