Shades of the Past Hot Rod Roundup [Early September]
With drive-bys from muscle and custom vehicles in a day and night weekend party that keeps in cruising mode in appreciation of America's renowned autos, Pigeon Forge once again demonstrates what a strip is for.
Harvest Festival [Mid September - October]
With a festive spirit, a slew of events emerges across the entire area. Everything is instantly covered in straw, scarecrows, and pumpkins. Arts and crafts are again on display. Hay rides, live entertainment, refreshments, and hot cider are available, while music fills the air.
Dumplin Valley Bluegrass Festival [Mid September]
This high-talent event is conveniently located 25 miles from Gatlinburg. Top national acts entertain a 3,000-person crowd in a super, super-friendly arena with tons of food and continual music centered on bluegrass, with some banging country thrown in for good measure. Dumplin Farm boasts 170 RV parking spots and some tent camping - it's a festival site that normally sells out months in advance. Many guests bring instruments, and there are some fantastic jams. Day visitors are welcome; tickets are available at the gate.
Trout Tournament- Fall [Late September]
The Trout Tournament in the fall is a great way to see the changing seasons, as the fish are loaded for contests in a variety of categories with awards. It is the largest trout competition in the Smoky Mountains, and it is widely recognized as one of the best supported fishing events in the world.
Fall Colors in the Smokies [October]
The Great Smoky Mountains has some of the most impressive landscapes in all of North America. From spring through fall you will see colors like no other; from red and orange to green, yellow, and orange yellow. The mountain ridges have foliage that march upslope over hundreds (sometimes thousands) of feet. This is why it's called “Great Smokies” or “Smoky Mountains” – the trees have a tendency to burn during fires but keep their leaves in place for years afterward! Many people are drawn to this area for the fall colors only to find out that it is much more than just colors; there is also a variety of wildlife that makes their way down into the valleys throughout autumn and winter.
Craftsmen Fair- Fall [October]
For all the hobbyists, artists and crafters who enjoy their time at The Fall Craftsmen’s Fair, it would be an understatement to say there is a great deal to see and do. Here in Gatlinburg there are plenty of events taking place throughout the duration of the fair — some of which only last a few days. And don’t think that shopping at these booths will put you into your own little heaven either; many of these artisans offer classes as well as workshops during the fall season.
Octoberfest at Ober Gatlinburg [October]
It's the very first big party of the season, and Ober Gatlinburg spends nearly a month arranging ensuring everything goes well. Usually starting around the end of September and going into the early part of November, the ski resort provides unique Biers along with traditional German dishes, music and dance.