Chili Cook Off

Fall and winter are two very popular times to take a vacation to Gatlinburg TN and this year is no different. Throughout the fall and winter months in Gatlinburg many family activities will be planned for you to enjoy. Each month kicks off with something new for you to enjoy. Although winter is not the busiest time of the year, it might be the most exciting time.

If you have taste buds for chili and are in the mood for some great food then Gatlinburg is the place for you to be on Wednesday, November 4. At the 20th Annual Gatlinburg Chili Cookoff chili vendors from all over the Southeast are coming to the area to show you what they do best ... make chili. The vendors at this year's chili cookoff in Gatlinburg will be cooking and mixing up some of their favorite recipes.

There are over 25 vendors and all you need is $7 and a spoon. At each booth you visit you can try the chili and vote for your favorite recipe. The Gatlinburg Chili Cookoff runs from 5:00 to 8:00 PM and at the end of the chili tasting winners from the contest will be announced.

The 20th Annual Chili Cookoff kicks off the month of November. These chilies range in taste from mild to extremely hot so whatever your taste is the Gatlinburg Chili Cookoff is sure to have something just for you. After the chili tasting is done and the judging is complete get everyone together for the lighting of downtown. The Gatlinburg community also kicks off their winter magic by lighting the winter lights in downtown.

Celebrate Veterans Day in Gatlinburg

This year, 2009, Gatlinburg will host the 7th annual Veterans Day. Enjoy an afternoon of fun while paying tribute to the ones that serve our country.

Gatlinburg has now been announced as the official Regional Site for the Observance of Veterans Day by the Veterans Day National Committee and the US. Department of Veteran's Affairs. Gatlinburg is now one of two cities in Tennessee, the other being, Nashville, to obtain this honor. There are only forty official sites in the United States that have received the designation.

Gatlinburg began it's original celebrations in 2002. The Southeast Tourism Society was so impressed by the event that they named it one of the Top 20 Events!

On the 11th hour of the 11th Month of the 11th day, Gatlinburg pulls out a huge celebration as a way of saying "thank you" to the men and women that have so bravely served our country. The festivities will be held at the Ripley's Aquarium.

The party begins with the flying of jets overhead. In addition, some of our finest veterans will deliver speeches. There will be a period of remembrance for our those who served and lost their lives. There will be loads of patriotic music, some of which will be performed by the Gatlinburg Pittman High School marching Band.

What a great way to celebrate our troops and service men and women. Come on out to the annual Veterans Day in Gatlinburg TN.

Hayrides in Gatlinburg

Old Fashion Hayrides are a popular event for tourists and locals alike. It’s a hayride that so many of us enjoyed as small children but this hayride takes you on a tour through some of Gatlinburg. The hayrides begin in September and last through December so if you’re in town be sure to stop by and take a ride.

They begin at 5pm and run until 9pm. The hayrides run in 45 minute intervals starting at traffic light number 6 in Gatlinburg. You will be picked up at Mountain Mall and your ride will take you down side streets on a scenic tour. Proceeds from these rides go to benefit United Way. If you travel during the Smoky Mountain Harvest Festival you will get to see the storefronts decorated to celebrate the fall colors and season. It continues through some of Winterfest as well. You’ll get to see the light displays and maybe some snow while you’re riding around. This unique ride is a great way to enjoy the scenery of fall or winter.

Bring back the old memories of hayrides from your childhood back and share it with others you’re traveling with. The Old Fashion Hayrides are a great way to see the city and scenery without having the same view from your car window. Remember to bundle up if you’re planning on riding the hayride in the winter months. Remember to have fun and bring your camera!