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 2-4: Hands on Gatlinburg
Spring into the new season by getting in touch with your creative side during “Hands On Gatlinburg” Arts & Crafts Weekend in the Great Smoky Arts and Crafts Community. More than a dozen studios will offer 30 different workshops geared to aspiring and experienced crafters.
Arts and crafts lovers can learn techniques and traditions from expert crafters while discovering how to craft beautiful pieces of artwork that will be treasured for years to come. An abundance of do-it-yourself style workshops will be offered to festival goers, from jewelry-making, gourd birdhouse painting, watercolor, glass fusing, basket weaving, candle making, chair seat weaving and more.
May 10: Bruce Street Brewfest
Bruce Street Craft Beer Festival in Historic Downtown Sevierville. Brewfest is back May 10, 2025! Join us 2 pm- 6pm on Bruce Street for brews, entertainment, and friendly competition!
May 10-Sept. 21: 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 15-17: 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 16-17: 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 17-Oct. 18: 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 from May 17 through October 18, 2025. 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!
