Monthly Archives: June 2021

Independence Day Parade 2021

Gatlinburg is back in 2021 with the nation’s first Independence Day celebration, starting one minute after midnight of the 3rd, for the 46th Annual Fourth of July Midnight Parade. This mile-long stream of parade entrants will work its way along Parkway this year led by the most perfect Grand Marshal, Gatlinburg’s favorite singer and musician, Miss Emi Sunshine.

Images courtesy of Gatlinburg and Anakeesta

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Favorite Swimming Places in the Smokies

As summer temperatures heat up, this is a great time to look for ways to stay cool. Great Smoky Mountains National Park and the surrounding area provide plenty of opportunities to go swimming for fun, relaxation and an escape from the heat. When you visit the park, keep in mind that there are more than 2,000 miles of streams, as well as creeks near hiking trails, picnic areas and scenic drives.

It’s a good idea to bring dry socks, towels and plastic bags for wet clothes when you go hiking in the park. You’ll also find waterfalls with swimming holes in the park, but you should always check for warning signs first to make sure they’re safe. Avoid swimming in any areas where warning signs are posted.

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Planning A Fishing Trip in the Smoky Mountains

If you love fishing, Great Smoky Mountains National Park should be on your list for a fishing trip. The park has over 2,000 miles of streams and rivers, and more than 800 miles of these contain fish, so it’s easy enough to find your own favorite spots practically anywhere in the park.

Since the park is easy to access and is open year-round, any time of the year is good to visit – with the spring being a prime fishing time. This is America’s most popular national park, and also one of the best freshwater fishing destinations in the US.


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Dollywood Summer 2021 – Just Add Drones!

Dollywood continues its vibrant summer season for 2021 with the Summer Celebration festival, running from June 25 through July 31. The ever innovative theme park brings us several festival themes during the course of the year, and this one is more spectacular than ever.

If you thought the multitude of umbrellas overhead were something special, wait until you see the hundreds of drones in the night sky, choreographing musical extravaganzas, along with fireworks. It’s a light show in three dimensions filling the sky, each evening through the festival. To warm the crowd up there’s a 30-minute dance party  beforehand to get you on your feet.

image courtesy of Dollywood

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