What To Do in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge in August 2024

August is a great month for mountain festivals.  First off, our annual hot air balloon festival is a local favorite.  Car lovers and choose between the Bronco Stampeded or the Jeep Invasion, both held at the LeConte Center in Pigeon Forge.  Music lovers can attend the Gatlinburg Songwriters Festival or – for a more lively scene featuring hard rock and heavy metal – The Mountain Music Festival.  It’s a diverse set of events with something to please everyone.

Gatlinburg Songwriters Festival

Dates: August 15-19, 2024
Location: Various venues in Gatlinburg

The Smoky Mountain Songwriters Festival brings together some of the best songwriters in the country for a celebration of music and storytelling. This five-day festival features live performances, workshops, and meet-and-greet sessions with award-winning songwriters. Attendees can enjoy intimate acoustic sets in cozy venues throughout Gatlinburg, offering a unique opportunity to hear the stories behind the songs. The festival highlights the art of songwriting and provides a platform for emerging talents to showcase their work.

Website: https://www.gatlinburgsongwriters.com/

Great Smoky Mountain Bronco Stampede

Dates: August 16-17, 2024
Location: LeConte Center, Pigeon Forge

The Smoky Mountain Bronco Stampede is a must-attend event for fans of the iconic Ford Bronco. This gathering features a wide array of Broncos, from classic models to the latest releases. Enthusiasts can enjoy a variety of activities, including off-road trail rides, a vendor expo with Bronco parts and accessories, and meet-and-greet sessions with fellow Bronco owners. The event celebrates the legacy of the Ford Bronco and provides an exciting experience for attendees.

Website:https://smbroncostampede.com/

Great Smoky Mountains Balloon Festival

Dates: August 17, 2024
Location: Townsend Visitors Center, Townsend TN

Over 20 hot air balloons are expected to participate in this year’s festival, each one unique in design and color. These giant, floating works of art will fill the sky with a kaleidoscope of hues, creating a visual feast that is sure to leave attendees in awe . The balloon pilots, hailing from various parts of the country, are seasoned professionals, eager to showcase their skills and share their passion for ballooning with the audience.

More Information: Read Our Blog Post

Great Smoky Mountain Jeep Invasion

Dates: August 22-24, 2024
Location: LeConte Center, Pigeon Forge

The Great Smoky Mountain Jeep Invasion is a thrilling event for Jeep enthusiasts and off-road adventurers. This three-day event showcases hundreds of Jeeps of all makes and models, featuring everything from vintage classics to the latest models. Attendees can explore a massive vendor expo with over 100 vendors offering Jeep parts, accessories, and gear. The event also includes guided trail rides through the beautiful Smoky Mountains, making it a must-visit for Jeep fans and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Website: https://gsmji.com/

Celebrate Freedom!

Dates: August 1-31, 2024
Location: Various venues in Pigeon Forge

Celebrate Freedom! is a month-long event in Pigeon Forge that honors America’s veterans, active military personnel, police officers, firefighters, and other emergency responders. Throughout August, these heroes and their families can take advantage of special discounts at many local attractions, shows, and restaurants. The event is a heartfelt tribute to those who serve and protect, offering them a chance to enjoy the best of Pigeon Forge at reduced rates. It’s a perfect time for families to come together and appreciate the sacrifices made by their loved ones.

Website: https://www.pigeonforge.com/event/celebrate-freedom-month/

The Mountain Music Festival

Dates: August 23-25, 2024
Location: Gatlinburg Convention Center

Welcome to the Monsters on the Mountain at this hard rock / heavy metal music festival. Headliners include Joan Jett & the Blackhearts, Tesla, Night Ranger, Quiet Riot, Foghat and more.  More than 25 bands will perform over 3 days.

Website: https://www.themountainusa.com/

About Tony Perez

I'm a people person, and I enjoy the atmosphere that working with Cabins Of The Smoky Mountains entails, interacting with different types of people and trying to relate to each one uniquely. From Michigan originally, I've been coming to the Smoky Mountains since I was a child, with family in Wears Valley. Summer fun for me is exploring the Cades Cove area, swimming in the creeks, and hiking Mount LeConte and many other trails. I love the Smoky Mountains.