Tennessee is the “Soundtrack of America”. No matter the reason for your visit; whether searching for some relaxation, outdoor adventure, great music or a history lesson – we have it all right here.
Music is synonymous with Tennessee. Whether it’s the rock ‘n’ roll infused sounds from Memphis or the country twang of Nashville, Tennessee is a melting pot of sound and culture. From Graceland, to the Grand OIe Opry via the Country Music Hall of Fame, there is plenty to salivate musical palates.
For the explorer, East Tennessee is home to the Great Smoky Mountains, where adventurers can trek over gorgeous mountain cliffs, wonder at dazzling waterfalls, and bask in glorious colours of the scenery around them.
Don’t forget to experience a tour of Tennessee’s greatest export – Jack Daniel’s whiskey. The distillery is located in Lynchburg, and a short hop from Gatlinburg; the gateway to the Smoky Mountains. Nearby is scenic Pigeon Forge, home of Dolly Parton’s theme park, Dollywood.
Not forgetting the National Civil Rights Museum at the Lorraine Motel, the nations tallest and deepest underground waterfall – Ruby Falls, the Tennessee Aquarium and Beale Street. There is so much on offer in Tennessee, you may need to come back more than once to experience it all.
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02 Sep 23
NEWS
What to do in Tennessee this autumnTennessee in the fall is an experience like no other. The landscape transforms into fiery reds ...Read moreWhat to do in Tennessee this autumn - News & announcementsTennessee in the fall is an experience like no other. The landscape transforms into fiery reds and warm oranges, with a hint of the lush greens the state is known for throughout the year. See what’s new for autumn in the Volunteer State. Fall Colors Viewfinder Now everyone can experience the vibrant fall colors. The Tennessee Viewfinders for the Colourblind is a groundbreaking way everyone to see the landscape in all its glory. Tis is a joy that color blind people have always been deprived of. The first scenic viewers in the world were designed to help those with red-green color deficiency. It helps visitors enjoy the fullness of the state's landscape, making scenic views and fall colors accessible to everyone. They are installed at various viewpoints across the state. New resort opening at Dollywood Dollywood's HeartSong Lodge and Resort, opens in fall 2023. It is a five-story resort with themed suites and loft rooms, indoor and outdoor pools, and an outdoor cove with family gathering spaces. This is the perfect Smoky Mountains getaway. Dreamcatcher, in the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains, features 200 AAA-Rated Four Diamond guest rooms, with a rooftop restaurant. Dollywood, the Pigeon Forge theme park owned by Dolly Parton is located near the gateway to the Great Smokey Mountains. From thrilling rollercoaster rides to daring water excursions, this theme park is a must for families, with something for everyone. The Big Bear Coaster will be part of the Wildwood Grove Park expansion at Dollywood. Check out Chasing Rainbows, the Dolly Parton museum, to see costumes from her movie career including 9 to 5 and Straight Talk, and the original Coat of Many Colors. Also see the many lavishly sequined gowns worn during countless concerts, award shows and TV appearances. Pumpkin Picking An old fall favorite, Pumpkin Picking can be enjoyed at most of Tennessee's farms. Home to many attractions Oakes Farm is a great one to try. Visitors have lots to enjoy from Punchin Pumkin Maze Race to the Mighty Pumpkin Pounder and the Mine Shaft giant slide. Another great place is East Tennessee's largest corn maze -Myers Pumpkin Patch and Farm in Greenville. There are thousands of pumpkins, squash and other gourds for sale plus organic jams, jellies, crafts, honey and other sweets in the general store. The perfect fall family day out, there are tractor rides and lots more. Learn more: https://www.tnvacation.com/ -
22 Jul 23
NEWS
A cool summer in TennesseeDespite being a landlocked state, Tennessee has a wealth of fun options to stay cool ...Read moreA cool summer in Tennessee - News & announcementsDespite being a landlocked state, Tennessee has a wealth of fun options to stay cool and beat the heat this summer. Serene lakes and rivers abound across the state, offering fun on the water from frafting and kayaking to canyoning and relaxing tubing. There are so fascinating ways to explore Tennessee’s scenic landscapes on the water. Here are 10 of the best: Whitewater Rafting on the Nolichucky River: Experience heart-pounding rapids and exhilarating cascades as you navigate the scenic Nolichucky River in east Tennessee. Renowned as one of the premier whitewater destinations in the country, this river promises an adrenaline-pumping adventure. Kayaking on the Hiwassee River Gorge: Take a serene kayaking journey through the picturesque Hiwassee River Gorge in southeast Tennessee. Paddle among towering cliffs, forests and calm waters, navigating the region's natural beauty. Scenic Boat Tour on Reelfoot Lake: Go on a guided boat tour of Reelfoot Lake, a picturesque natural treasure. Marvel at the cypress trees, submerged forests, and abundant wildlife, including eagles and herons. Pontoon Boating on Norris Lake: Cruise along the pristine waters of Norris Lake. With over 800 miles of shoreline north of Knoxville, this expansive lake offers ample opportunities for swimming, fishing, and enjoying panoramic views. Stand-Up Paddleboarding at Ijams Quarry in Knoxville: Test your balance and core strength while gliding atop the tranquil waters of the quarry. Paddleboarding provides a unique perspective of the landscape. Waterfall Canyoning at Fall Creek Falls: Embark on a thrilling canyoning adventure at Fall Creek Falls State Park. Rappel down cascading waterfalls into refreshing pools and explore the park's breathtaking nature. Jet Skiing on Boone Lake: Feel the rush speeding across the clear waters of Boone Lake on a jet ski. Enjoy the the thrill of zipping above the lake's vast expanse. Fishing on the Tennessee River: Cast your line into the legendary Tennessee River, renowned for its abundant fish. Whether you're an avid angler or a novice, the river offers a rewarding and relaxing experience. The Lodge at Pickwick Landing is a popular retreat for anglers in West Tennessee. Water Tubing on the Little River: Relax as you float along the gentle currents of the Little River. Tubing offers a leisurely way to soak up the sun and enjoy the scenery of the Great Smoky Mountains. Splash Around at Soaky Mountain Waterpark: Soaky Mountain in Sevierville offers fun adventures including a massive 35,000 square feet wave pool, a one-of-a-kind water coaster and two high intensity body slides. This destination offers nonstop fun for the entire family. For more Tennessee inspiration on the water this summer, visit TNvacation.com. -
09 Nov 22
NEWS
National parks carried Tennessee Tourism past Covid, explains Margaret FuquaThe nature and cabins at Smokey Mountain (the number 1 visited national park in the ...Read moreNational parks carried Tennessee Tourism past Covid, explains Margaret Fuqua - News & announcementsThe nature and cabins at Smokey Mountain (the number 1 visited national park in the US) have carried Tennessee above pre-Covid visitor numbers, but international visitors are down. While Tennesse offers comprehensive tourism options (i.e. nature, Whiskey Trail...), Nashville music still sets them apart. And of course, there is true Southern Hospitality. -
27 Oct 22
NEWS
Discover Tennessee’s ghostly legendsShadowy figures in hallways and cell blocks, the legend of the Bell Witch, echoes from ...Read moreDiscover Tennessee’s ghostly legends - News & announcementsShadowy figures in hallways and cell blocks, the legend of the Bell Witch, echoes from the past in cemeteries and more strange Halloween happenings await at haunted destinations across Tennessee. Read House Hotel’s Room 311 – Chattanooga There are those who believe Room 311 at this historic hotel is haunted by the ghost of Annalisa Netherly, a guest who was allegedly murdered by a jealous lover in 1927. Over the years, guests reported paranormal activity in the room, including unexplained noises, flickering lights, running water, shadowy figures and more. The haunted room is well-known by locals who say they experienced supernatural happenings of their own. Victorian Séance Experience at Mabry-Hazen House - Knoxville A true manifestation of spirits or clever parlour tricks? Sitters can decide for themselves at the Victorian Séance Experience inside the front parlours of the 1858 historic house. Re-enactors follow 19th-century Spiritualism rituals to give an immersive experience. Psychics, astrologers and tarot card readers also perform their craft for interested parties. The dark history of Americans’ experiences with death, burial and spiritualism is preserved in the historic house museum. Historic Brushy Mountain State Penitentiary - Petros Historic Brushy Mountain State Penitentiary was known as the "end of the line," holding some of the state's most violent inmates, like James Earl Ray. During the day, former guards and former inmates give tours, but on certain nights, it turns into a haunted history lover’s dream with Brushy’s overnight paranormal tours. Small groups can tour the prison with equipment in hopes to capture evidence and hear the stories that still echo through the walls and cell blocks. Jonesborough’s Cemetery Tour and Chester Inn & Museum - Jonesborough Walking through Tennessee’s oldest town, you’re bound to run into a ghost or two. In the fall, don’t miss A Spot on the Hill, an original, research-based play by Anne G’Fellers-Mason. Visitors will hear stories of how people came to Jonesborough, what kept them there and what happened to them. Come and listen to real stories of real lives among the tombstones. Other haunted destinations include the Chester Inn & Museum along the Historic Main Street. Those who work there say they’ve heard footsteps and doors opening and closing. Thomas House Hotel – Red Boiling Springs One of the most haunted places in the U.S., the Thomas House Hotel is built on an ancient Native American trail and has been witness to deaths, murders, accidents and a home for a cult. Guests reported feeling cold spots, hearing disembodied voices and seeing dark figures. The hotel hosts overnight ghost hunt weekends throughout the year, and is not for the faint of heart. The Historic Commodore Hotel - Linden Guests at the Historic Commodore Hotel, built in 1939, reported eerily spooky encounters that might stir the curiosity of true ghost hunters, including seeing a little girl in a blue dress, pigtails and pink ribbons in her hair in the hallway or sitting in a chair. The ghost is supposedly very friendly. The charming boutique hotel is a perfect getaway where you may run into a ghost. Andrew Jackson’s Hermitage - Nashville One of Tennessee’s most popular historic destinations grows darker at night with ghost stories and dark, mysterious tales at the home and grounds of former president Andrew Jackson. Embark on a spooky voyage during Andrew Jackson’s Hermitage Ghost Tours 7 and 9 p.m. as you explore the mansion, grounds, and cemetery by lantern light. Hear stories about ghosts of the Battle of New Orleans and Jackson’s infamous meeting with the Bell Witch. Orpheum Theatre – Memphis Travelers enjoy musicals, concerts and fine arts events at the Orpheum Theatre. However, one guest in particular, Mary, hauntingly enjoys the theater from her balcony seat in C5. Many patrons, workers and actors have seen Mary watch the performances. She has allegedly been spotted dancing in the hallways and playing pranks on housekeepers by hiding their tools. Shiloh National Military Park - Shiloh Shiloh National Military Park in Shiloh preserves the site of one of the bloodiest battles of the Civil War. You can hike the grounds of the park, following trails that will lead you to tablets and monuments away from the auto tour roads. There's also a 1.1-mile trail that leads to the historic Shiloh Indian Mounds village. You can also pick up a map from the visitor center and drive the 12.7-mile, 20-stop, self-guiding driving tour of the battlefield. -
17 Oct 22
Partner News
Nashville’s Iconic Goo Goo Cluster Celebrates 110 Years – Tennessee TourismGoo Goo Cluster, the iconic Southern heritage candy brand, is celebrating its 110th Birthday ...Read moreNashville’s Iconic Goo Goo Cluster Celebrates 110 Years – Tennessee Tourism - News & announcementsGoo Goo Cluster, the iconic Southern heritage candy brand, is celebrating its 110th Birthday with an exclusive online promotion. To celebrate more than a century of making their beloved clusters, the Nashville-based chocolate company will reward the first 110 online shoppers with a free bag of Lil Goo’s. Whether gearing up for Halloween trick-or-treaters or shopping early for stocking stuffers, this sweet deal comes right in time for a variety of holidays.“It’s been an honor to serve chocolate lovers around the globe for the last 110 years,” said Co-Owner and Vice President of Operations Laurie Spradley of Goo Goo Cluster. “There are never enough ways to say thank you to our customers, but we especially wanted to show our appreciation on this special anniversary. We look forward to serving our loyal fans for centuries to come!” In 1912, America’s first combination candy bar was invented by Howard Campbell Sr. and Porter Moore at the Standard Candy Company in Nashville. The two covered a roundish mound of caramel, marshmallow nougat and fresh roasted peanuts in real milk chocolate to create the Goo Goo Cluster. The original creation was an inaugural moment in candy bar history: Multiple elements were mass-produced in a retail confection, and just like that, a candy bar consisted of more than one principal ingredient. Goo Goo Cluster has kept the original recipe the same for 110 years, but has introduced other flavors like Pecan and Peanut Butter as well other iterations of the product lineup like Lil’ Goos and chef-curated Premium Goo Goos. The beloved cluster has continued to garner adoration and support from loyal customers nationwide with the recent transformation of its downtown Nashville shop. The storefront on Lower Broadway allows visitors to experience the delicious confection in a whole new way. Located at 116 3rd Ave. S., Goo Goo Chocolate Co. offers Design Your Own Confection Stations, interactive classes, a retail shop and a full-service Chocolate Bar menu providing boozy milkshakes, baked goods, bonbons and more. To be eligible for a free bag of Lil’ Goos, you must be one of the first 110 customers to place an online order and use the promotion code “FREE GIFT” on Monday, Oct. 24. The code can only be used once per customer and will become inactive after 110 claims. For more information about the brand, the shop and its delicious products, visit googoo.com. -
22 Sep 22
Partner News
Glamping Retro, Geocaching Tours, A Barn Dance, Quail Hunting At A Luxury Resort, A Bacon & Bourbon Fest, Wine Trail And Autumn Color: Discover What’s New And Trending This Fall In TennesseeA crisp chill and aroma of pumpkin and apple treats fill the air, red, ...Read moreGlamping Retro, Geocaching Tours, A Barn Dance, Quail Hunting At A Luxury Resort, A Bacon & Bourbon Fest, Wine Trail And Autumn Color: Discover What’s New And Trending This Fall In Tennessee - News & announcementsA crisp chill and aroma of pumpkin and apple treats fill the air, red, orange and vibrant yellows burst through the trees, laughter fills corn mazes, new destinations inspire curiosity and ghost stories echo from the past. Here’s what’s new and trending this fall in Tennessee. Erwin – Visitors can experience the outdoors and fall colors in a new, luxurious way at Glamping Retro, a luxury camping destination with six tents, an airstream and treehouse available for rent. Loudon – Discover a boutique luxury resort on over 500 acres in the heart of the Tennessee valley at Windy Hill Farm & Preserve. Enjoy world-class upland quail hunting, kayaking, paddleboarding, archery, wine hikes, meditation, and dinners featuring heirloom ingredients imaginatively prepared. Gatlinburg – Immerse yourself in the stars descending from the night sky. Astra Lumina at Anakeesta is the 15th experience in the Lumina Enchanted Night Walk series, and the very first in the U.S. Pigeon Forge – The Lumberjack Feud hosts the first Rib Fest presented by Sugarlands Distilling with plenty of ribs, games, inflatables, mini-golf, face-painting, live music and an authentic lumberjack competition. Jefferson City – Check out the new Blues Between the Lakes Festival Oct. 7 at Mossy Creek Station with international touring artist Wayne Baker Brooks, live entertainment and local favorite, BBQ 865 food truck. Leiper’s Fork – Patina Home & Garden, an immersive community experience by designers Brooke and Steve Gianetti, is set to open mid-October in the former Serenite Maison/Leiper’s Fork Antiques space. South Central Tennessee – Take part in the World’s Largest Treasure Hunt. Find history, outdoor adventure, peace and quiet, culinary delights, hiking, spirits, charming towns and one-of-a-kind attractions in the rolling hills on the Discover South Central Tennessee Geocaching Tour. Middle Tennessee – Scoop up new fall flavors at Hattie Jane’s Creamery, like Toasted S’mores, Salted Caramel Apple, Pumpkin Pie and Caramel Coconut at locations in Columbia, Franklin, Nashville and Murfreesboro. Hattie Jane’s is also available in the frozen section at Turnip Truck in East Nashville. Statewide – Sample wonderful wine with a chance to win prizes along the new Tennessee Wine Trail featuring more than 40 wineries, meaderies and cideries. Trending Places this Fall Memphis – Tempt your tastebuds with creative bacon-inspired dishes from local restaurants and an array of distilled spirits at the Memphis Bacon & Bourbon Festival, 6-9 p.m. Oct. 7 at the Metal Museum. Portland – Enjoy fresh air and fun at Bottom View Farm with train rides, hayrides to the pumpkin patch, hay maze, pillow jump and other activities. Each paid admission includes a small pumpkin. Nashville – Celebrate the deep autumn colors during the beloved Cheekwood Harvest with more than 5,000 chrysanthemums, scarecrows, pumpkin picking, Japanese moon viewing and other fall activities. Eagleville – Visit Lucky Ladd Farms, which offers a unique farm experience, newly expanded playgrounds, hands-on animal encounters, pumpkin patch, corn maze, pony rides, tractor train and fall treats like kettle corn, caramel apples, fresh-baked donuts, apple cider slushies and pumpkin spice lattes. Clarksville – Clarksville’s trails serve up spectacular views. Colorful foliage follows creeks, streams and rivers, refreshing the mind, body and spirit. Check out these 7 Trails with Fantastic Fall Views. Granville – Scarecrows tell the colorful stories of fall during October on the streets of historic Granville at Scarecrow Walk Festival. Other October events include the Artisan’s Festival, Quilt Show, Jazz Festival, Motorcycle Show and Ghost Walk. Murfreesboro – Uncle Dave Macon Days is a Middle Tennessee tradition. Come explore the 83-acre rolling hills of Hop Springs Beer Park Oct. 7-8, take in bluegrass music and enjoy delicious eats. Crossville – More than 100 vendors, food, live music, celebrity speakers, scavenger hunt, Bigfoot 5K Glow Run and kid’s zone are part of the fun for the Upper Cumberland Bigfoot Festival, Oct. 14-15 at the historic Palace Theatre downtown. Knoxville – Don’t miss Schulz Brau Brewing’s Oktoberfest. The two-week festival follows Munich traditions, features live music by Knoxville Polka Kings, Oktoberfest plates & brunch, bratwurst eating contest, wiener dog racing, Oktoberfest beer release, stein-hoisting contest and watch parties for UT games. Clinton – Step back in time and enjoy pioneer Southern Appalachian traditions and old-time demonstrations of the fall harvest season. Fall Heritage Days at the Museum of Appalachia Nov. 3-4 feature a hayride and maze, traditional music, tractor exhibition, demonstrations and pumpkin patch. Oliver Springs – Windrock Park is the largest, privately owned off-road park in the country and their annual Windrock Park Fall Jamboree Oct. 13-15 is a must-do with haunted trail rides, off-road competitions, fall views, bonfires, food vendors, music and a grand opening celebration for the new General Store. Morristown – The Mountain Makins Festival Oct. 22-23 celebrates Appalachian tradition through music, dance, fine art, juried crafts, storytelling, regional authors and children’s activities at the Historic Rose Center for the Arts, voted Best Festival in East Tennessee by readers of Tennessee Magazine. Chattanooga – The Hunter Museum of American Art celebrates its 70th anniversary with unique art exhibits, including Memories & Inspiration: The Kerry and C. Betty Davis Collection of African American Art. Johnson City – Heart-pumping curves, breathtaking fall scenery, historic landmarks and attractions are on tap with the Southern Dozen, a series of motorcycle routes throughout Northeast Tennessee that begin and end in Johnson City with exciting rides for every rider. Erwin – The Unicoi County Apple Festival Oct. 7-8 in downtown Erwin welcomes more than 100,000 people from across the country for craft and food vendors, fried-to-order apple pie stand, baking contest, road race, entertainment, a kid’s zone and other activities. Pigeon Forge – Bask in the glow of thousands of intricately-carved pumpkins, the new Hoot Owl Hollow, savor the harvest-themed menu and soak in the fun at Dollywood’s Harvest Festival presented by Humana and the Great Pumpkin LumiNights. Gatlinburg – The Smoky Mountain Harvest Festival is Gatlinburg’s celebration of harvest season, featuring festivals, special events and Autumn themed displays, including life-size 3D Scarecrow people. Sevierville – Craving the perfect fall treat? The Apple Barn & Cider Mill has you covered with traditional apple butter, apple cider and old-fashioned apple stack cakes. Jonesborough – Enjoy stories from around the world at the 50th National Storytelling Festival, Oct. 7-9, in the heart of Tennessee’s oldest town. New Restaurants, Bars, Breweries, Distilleries and Shops Thompson’s Station – Take a drive to this charming and picturesque town to Company Distilling to sample tastings, a full cocktail menu, distillery tours and an outdoor patio to gather with friends and family. Knoxville – Finding common ground through beer, Ebony & Ivory Brewing opens this fall with a mission to encourage diversity, inclusion and unity. Also, for a sweet fix, check out LuLu Liquor Cakes, alcohol-infused cake jars and cakes made from scratch with flavors like pecan pie and chocolate espresso. Sevierville – Shine Girl is a new distillery helmed by master distiller, Danielle Parton, who is a veteran, commercial pilot, Dolly Parton’s niece and is also featured on the show, Moonshiners. New Hotels & Places to Stay Memphis – Make yourself at home and soak up South Main Arts District community vibe at Caption by Hyatt Beale Street Memphis. Hang out in the Talk Shop, kick back in the Beer Garden and enjoy river views. Nashville – Music City has unique new hotels to stay in this fall, including Four Seasons Hotel Nashville (opening in Oct. in SoBro); Hotel Fraye Nashville, Curio Collection by Hilton, now open in Midtown; 1 Hotel Nashville and Conrad Nashville. Fall Festivals & Events Smyrna (Sept. 23-24) Thousands will pack Front Street for the 15th Annual Depot Days with more than 100 booths of vendors, food, local shops, artisans, live music, classic car show train rides and kid-friendly activities. Saltillo (Sept 23-24) – Watch champions battle it out and sample award-winning barbecue at the TN River BBQ Battle & Music Festival, a Kansas City BBQ Society sanctioned competition with teams from all over the country along the banks of the Tennessee River. Memphis (Sept. 23-25) – Nearly 150 artists from around the country will showcase eclectic pottery, jewelry, paintings, woodwork, leatherwork, sculpture and more at the 50th Annual Pink Palace Crafts Fair at Cancer Survivors Park, benefiting the Museum of Science & History. Nashville (Sept. 23-Nov. 6) – Explore the haunted side of history during Ghost Tours at Andrew Jackson’s Hermitage as you listen to stories walking among the mansion, grounds and cemetery by lantern light. Franklin (Sept. 24-25) – Chris Stapleton, Brandi Carlile and Jon Batiste are among those set to take the stage at Pilgrimage Music & Cultural Festival at Harlinsdale Farm. Crossville (Sept. 24-25) – The Homesteads Apple Festival features crafters, antiques, local artists and authors, a petting zoo, live music, kid’s activities and apple-themed food and drinks. Murfreesboro (Sept. 24) – Bring lawn chairs, blankets and get in the fall spirit at the 8th Annual Oktoberfest at Oaklands Mansion with craft beer brewers, food trucks, handcrafted gourmet items and live music. Rockwood (Sept. 24) – Put on your dancing boots, kick up your heels and enjoy a good old-fashioned barn dance, Ace’s and Eights, a dance and country music concert, 6-8 p.m. at Papaw’s Opry Barn. Tickets are $20. Johnson City (Sept. 24) – Amateur brewers from across the nation compete for $10,000 at the 3rd Annual Hoppy Possum: Southern Brewers Cup beer festival with tastings, live music and unique food trucks. Nashville (Sept. 29-Oct. 5) – Filmmakers, actors, screenwriters and movie fans unite for the 53rd Nashville Film Festival featuring more than 150 film screenings, panel discussions and live music. Clarksville (Sept. 30-Oct. 1) – Clarksville Artsville Fest at Sanctuary on Main features local artists, artisans, small businesses, music, dance and fun activities for the whole family. Admission is free. Townsend (Sept. 30-Oct. 1) – Get a head start on your holiday shopping as more than 60 talented local crafters and artisans will showcase their handmade pottery, clothing, home décor, woodwork, jams and other products at the 11th Annual Makers Market at Church of the Cove. Memphis (Sept. 30-Oct. 2) – Mempho Music Fest is back at Radians Amphitheater at Memphis Botanic Garden. This year’s line-up includes The Black Keys, Widespread Panic and Jason Isbell. Knoxville (Sept. 30-Oct. 31) – Get lost in Maple Lane Farms’ Corn Maze, which partnered with Visit Knoxville to spotlight the 40th Anniversary of the World’s Fair. The family fall fun event is open on weekends, and haunted nightly Oct. 21-31 starting at dusk. Petros (Oct. 1) – Rev up your engines as hundreds of cars & motorcycles are on display at Pistons at the Prison 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. at Historic Brushy Mountain State Penitentiary. Chattanooga (Oct. 1-30) – The award-winning Rocktoberfest returns to Rock City Gardens. The 16th annual German-themed harvest festival features new German food and variety of themed entertainment and activities. Milan (Oct. 8) – The Milan Fall Festival 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. on Main Street packs in the fun with kid’s activities, balloon artists, a petting zoo, story/craft time, bounce houses and more. Cleveland (Oct. 13) – Mambo Under the Stars during a night of Latin jazz, dance lessons and Latin-themed buffet at Museum Center at 5ive Points. Food trucks and cash bars will be available. Tickets start at $15. Memphis (Oct 15) – Memphis Food and Wine Fest showcases talented chefs from the city and around the world. Guests can experience food tastings, wine and explore Memphis Botanic Garden. Bell Buckle (Oct. 15-16) A perennial crowd favorite, the 45th annual Webb Art & Craft Show features handmade arts and crafts such as pottery, metal works, woodworking, textiles, jewelry, old-fashioned soaps, lotions, honey from a beehive and food trucks featuring dishes from around the world. Lewisburg (Oct. 21-22) – Fainting goats, live music, food vendors, arts & crafts, kids’ games and rides are part of the fun at Goats, Music & More downtown at Rock Creek Park. Knoxville (Oct. 27-29) – Ghost stories, dark tales and mysterious happenings rise up during the Victorian Séance Experience with a medium inside the front parlors of Mabry Hazen House. Jonesborough (Oct. 29) – Get ready for ghost stories, hot cider, cocoa, seasonal craft beer and chills during Brews & Boos in Jimmy Neil Smith Park, behind the International Storytelling Center. Gray (Oct. 29) – Tap into your inner artist at the Gourd Fest & Workshop at the Opry Barn. $25 and includes gourd & materials. Guests are encouraged to bring a sack lunch. Proceeds benefit Boones Creek Historical Trust. Call 423-329-3784 to register. Gallatin (Nov. 5) – In celebration of Sumner County’s rich music history, bring out the whole family for the free Backyard Bluegrass Bash, 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. in the backyard of the Douglass-Clark House. Nashville (Nov. 18-Feb. 4) – Zoolumination, the country’s largest Chinese lantern festival returns featuring more than 1,000 custom-made silk lanterns, whimsical imagery and fantastic beasts at Nashville Zoo. For a complete list of what’s happening in Tennessee, visit tnvacation.com/calendar.
To learn more about Tennessee Songwriters Week and to see how you can get tickets for the annual competition, visit: tnsongwritersweek.com