Mark Your Calendar for these May Events in the Tennessee Smokies
By Chris Murphy
May is full of fun and exciting events all across the Tennessee Smokies, from Sevierville to Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg. Whether you’re searching for family-friendly events, food and drink events, live music or free festivals, you’ll have plenty of options to choose. Be sure to pick up the Tennessee Smokies Visitors Guide for even more events throughout the year.
May 2: Bruce Street Brewfest
Bruce Street Craft Beer Festival in Historic Downtown Sevierville. Brewfest is back May 2, 2026! Join us 2 pm- 6pm on Bruce Street for brews, entertainment, and friendly competition!
May 14-16: Grand National F-100 Ford Show
The Grand National F-100 Show held at the LeConte Center in Pigeon Forge, is the largest classic Ford pick-up truck event in the world. The event is open to classic Ford trucks, 1996 and older.
Truckers will exhibit their trucks both inside and outside the beautiful LeConte Center at Pigeon Forge. The most popular vendors for classic Ford Trucks will have the latest and greatest parts for sale. And the Ford Truck Swap Meet will be outside the convention center with cabs, doors, grills and just about everything a trucker could possibly want.
The finale to the Grand National F-100 Show will be an award ceremony to recognize the very finest classic Ford Trucks, which takes place on Saturday afternoon
May 23-Sept. 7: Dollywood’s Splash Country
Dive into sun-drenched fun for all ages at the most trusted water park in the Smokies! Plunge down towering slides like Firetower Falls, relax as you float down the lazy river, or race your family down TailSpin Racer. Even little ones can make a splash on the Little Creek Falls splash pad.
May 15-16: Bloomin’ BBQ & Bluegrass
Bloomin’ BBQ & Bluegrass in Sevierville, Tennessee, is an annual festival celebrating Southern culture with mouthwatering barbecue and world-class bluegrass music. Held in the heart of downtown Sevierville, the event features live performances from renowned bluegrass artists, a BBQ cook-off, and family-friendly activities. Visitors can also enjoy craft vendors, local food stalls, and a lively atmosphere that highlights the charm of East Tennessee.
May 18-Oct. 19: Gatlinburg Farmers Market
Offering local choices for healthy mountain living, the Farmers Market is open each Saturday from 8:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at 1222 East Parkway across from Food City. Comprised of local producers, the emphasis is on fresh produce and homemade product offered in an atmosphere of community. Visit Gatlinburgfarmersmarket.com for more information.
Want more Events?
CALENDAR: Check out our Tennessee Smokies Visitors Guide calendar of events to help plan your activities!
NEWSLETTER: Or sign up for our Tennessee Smokies Destination Newsletter to receive exclusive content for planning your vacation getaway to the Tennessee Smokies!
