Greetings to our Friends of the Bear!
Hold onto your hats because July and August are gearing up to be jam-packed with excitement! Here’s the scoop:
Kicking things off with a bang, the legendary TG Sheppard is set to rock the Great Smoky Mountain Heritage Center on July 12th. It’s a concert you won’t want to miss!
Then, rev up your engines for the Autos through the Ages Car Show at the Heritage Center on July 14th. Get ready for a display of automotive history like never before!
But wait, there’s more! August rolls in with our annual Appalachian Homecoming festival from the 1st to the 4th at Dancing Bear Lodge. Join us for a delectable journey through East Tennessee’s culinary heritage, featuring workshops, farm-to-table delights, and much more. Don’t forget, we’ve got exclusive lodging packages available just for you!
And mark your calendars because on August 17th, the skies will be ablaze with color at the Great Smoky Mountain Hot Air Balloon Festival at Townsend Visitor’s Center. It’s a spectacle that promises thrills and memories for the whole family!
So, whether you’re a music aficionado, a car enthusiast, a foodie, or just looking for a good time, we’ve got something special lined up for you this summer. Come join us for unforgettable moments and make this summer one for the books!
See you there!

Calendar of Events:
Legends Concert – TG Sheppard
July 12th, Great Smoky Mountain Heritage Center
Autos through the Ages Car Show
July 14th, Great Smoky Mountain Heritage Center
Homecoming Concert featuring Jim
Lauderdale + Po’ Ramblin Boys
August 1st, Dancing Bear Lodge
Appalachian Homecoming
August 1st – 4th, Dancing Bear Lodge
GSM Hot Air Balloon Festival
August 17th, Townsend Visitor’s Center
Songs by the Brook Concert
August 22nd, Springbrook Park (Maryville)
What’s New at the Lodge:
Homecoming Lodging Packages
Exciting lodging packages available for Appalachian Homecoming and Thursday night’s concert!











