The Gatlinburg Fall Craftsmen's Fair Will Show Off in October
The twice a year paid Craftsmen’s Fair held at the Convention Center in downtown Gatlinburg will soon be shown to the delight of visitors near and far. Of course, some of the crafters and artisans themselves will be traveling long distances to show off their work to locals and tourists alike. If it seems like we just had one, you would be fairly accurate. The July show doesn’t feel like it was that long ago. With all of the hot summer months sticking together—as well as the clothing on your skin—you would be excused to think that was the case. Anyway, for 17 days you’ll have plenty of opportunities, so let’s get started on the details I’m aware of, at this moment.
The fall Gatlinburg Craftsmen’s Fair will be held October 3-20 daily from 10-5. Like July’s fair, tickets will be $10, and you are recommended to request a multi-day pass so you don’t have to pay for another day, unless you are a one-and-done. I can attest to the quality of these fairs—you will want to obtain one. All you have to do is present your ID at the office once inside the Convention Center. All minors 17 and under are free with a paying adult, like the summer show as well.
What you’re getting with your $10 admission fee is a showcase of some amazing talent in candle-making, woodworking, candy-making, writing, painting, and much, much, more—over 200 booths worth! You can also watch with astonishment as they do demonstrations, and will also graciously answer questions, all while offering their precious items for sale. This is a perfect opportunity to gather some one-of-a-kind Christmas gifts that will undoubtedly impress the recipients.
Also included in admission—as with July’s Craftsmen’s Fair—will be daily live entertainment from unbelievably talented and renowned musicians. The Dennis Lee Band will kick things off the first week from October 3-10. Following them will be Misty River from the 11th to the 13th. Then, on October 14th, the Grammy-nominated bluegrass pickers, Po’ Ramblin’ Boys, will take the stage through the 16th. The family band, Mountain Highway, will replace them from the 17th through the 19th, with Misty River returning to finish off the fair on the 20th. This is more than background music that’s well worth the admission price alone! The bands will be performing from 12-3 each day of the Craftsmen’s Fair.
Okay, does this sound like a good way to spend some of your vacation time and hard-earned money? I think so, and this is coming from someone who isn’t easily impressed with these shows, but I am inspired by the amount of creativity and diligence that I see and hear from these respected artisans. They think outside the traditional way of earning a living, and in some ways, this line of thought is what brought us to Gatlinburg from Ohio. You won’t regret it!
Thank you for reading and subscribing to my publication! I hope to see some of you in town for this event, plus any of the others that will be happening in the coming months. This is arguably the most exciting time of the year, and it would be a shame to miss out on all the good times! Stay tuned!