You cannot visit the Gatlinburg area without appreciating the arts and crafts that are rich within the Smoky Mountains. There is just something about the beauty and richness of these mountains that bring out the artist in all of us. Whether it is the squeak of a potter’s wheel that draws you into a certain shop, or the smell of leather being formed into moccasins or belts, there are many opportunities to find a craftsman in Gatlinburg. Maybe it’s the scented wax of a candle maker’s shop that beckons you to walk through the door. I remember being fascinated as a child walking into a candle shop and watching the artisans dipping candles into vats and then carving them into miniature works of art.
There are studios and artists’ shops dispersed throughout the Gatlinburg area, but the best place to see them all is at the Craftsman’s Festival! You’re one-stop shopping venue for all things handmade. Experience the art of the Smoky Mountains at this year’s Craftsmen’s Festival starting October 6 – 23 at the Gatlinburg Convention Center. The convention center will be magically transformed into an arts and crafts haven for anyone who loves to browse for handmade goods. Not only will there be booths, but most of the crafters will be demonstrating how they make the wonderful things that will be on sale. In addition to the craft booths, there will live bluegrass music shows featuring such entertainers as Tim Watson: “Fiddle Man” and Dennis Lee and band.
The Craftsmen’s Festival hours are 10-6 daily and 10-5 on Sundays. Admission is $6.00 for adults and children 12 and under are free. Check out the Gatlinburg Craftmen’s Fair website for additional information.