The arts and crafts community has established a strong presence in Gatlinburg. Their deep association with Southern Appalachian culture brings a rich heritage and fine craftsmanship to the mountains that’s nearly impossible to find anywhere else.
Each year these artisans and craftsmen join together to showcase their beautifully crafted pieces at the Great Smoky Easter Arts and Crafts Show. This family fun event will be held Easter weekend at the Gatlinburg Convention Center; located on the parkway. The doors will open at 10 a.m. and close at 5 p.m. Thursday, Saturday and 6 p.m. on Friday. Admission is free!
This special event will host a wide range of artists and craftsmen who will be representing their best work. Visitors will find displays of watercolor, oil acrylics, mixed media, print work and much more. Handcrafted toys, knives, candles, soaps and leather brooms are just few more examples of some homemade products that will be available for purchase. Delicious treats such as fudge, local honey, and a variety of jams and jellies will also be prepared to satisfy your sweet tooth.
In addition to sampling delicious sweets, browsing through vintage antiques, and buying handcrafted art, these talented craftsmen will also be giving demonstrations on how they bring their ideas to life. Guests will see first-hand the creation of different textile arts, jewelry, pottery, wood carving and basketry.
The Great Smoky Arts and Crafts Community is the largest group of independent artisans in North America. It started in 1937 when a woodcarver, broom maker and chair maker decided to pick up and move their shops a little closer to home. Others followed and eventually the area turned into what is now considered the Tennessee Heritage Trail – or rather, the historic arts and crafts loop.
Now over 70 years later, the Gatlinburg Arts & Crafts Community is a major part of the Great Smoky Mountains and has become a popular attraction for tourists in East Tennessee. With having all of this rich history packed into this 8-mile loop allows opportunity to experience the Southern Appalachian culture that has made Gatlinburg the way it is today. If you’re in town during the Great Smoky Easter Arts and Crafts Show make sure to stop by and check it out. It’s something you’ll definitely not want to miss. Otherwise, set aside a day to really explore the arts and crafts loop and see yourself how it makes the Smokies so special.
