A banjo player and drummer performing on the street.

Smoky Mountain Tunes and Tales Returns to Gatlinburg This Summer

Where can you find the most talented people in East Tennessee? In Gatlinburg, of course! This summer, the best storytellers, artisans, and musicians from all across the region will gather in downtown Gatlinburg for Smoky Mountain Tunes and Tales. As one of the most popular events in Gatlinburg, Smoky Mountain Tunes and Tales has been entertaining and educating vacationers about Appalachian heritage and culture for over a decade. Black Bear Inn & Suites has put together a guide to everything you need to know about this beloved tradition.

The Best of Gatlinburg

Smoky Mountain Tunes and Tales is a family-friendly event centered around the history of mountain people, featuring music and storytelling dating back to the 1800s. The seven-week event highlights two of the best modern features of the area: the culture and the walkability.

Music and More

Guests at Black Bear Inn & Suites can enjoy a leisurely walk through downtown Gatlinburg while interacting with the Tunes and Tales street performers. Storytellers, musicians, and artisans from across the Smoky Mountains gather in the heart of the city to showcase the rich heritage of the area through their craft. The music featured during Smoky Mountain Tunes and Tales includes traditional bluegrass, Gospel, country, and folk. Zeno The Bear, Gatlinburg’s official mascot, might even make special appearances to take photos with visitors.The city of Gatlinburg at night.

Performances include songs and stories dating from the early 19th century to the present day. Quilters, spinners, cloggers, and costumed storytellers also help in turning The Strip into one giant stage. In addition to shopping, dining, and enjoying Gatlinburg at night, visitors will also have the opportunity to learn a few new dance steps or a different quilting stitch.

Tunes and Tales Schedule

Smoky Mountain Tunes and Tales will run every night from June 9 to July 29, 2017. The entertainers will begin each evening by meeting in the center of downtown at 6 p.m. to pick and play. The festivities usually last until around 10 p.m.

Where to Stay

Black Bear Inn & Suites is the perfect home base for your summer vacation in Gatlinburg. Our hotel is located right on the Parkway, just steps away from Smoky Mountain Tunes and Tales and all of the wonderful attractions, restaurants, and shops on The Strip. In addition to our proximity to all of the fun in downtown Gatlinburg, Black Bear Inn is also only 200 yards from the entrance to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the most visited national park in the United States.

One of the beautiful suites at the best hotel in Gatlinburg.When you stay at Black Bear Inn & Suites, you will have everything you need for an unforgettable getaway in Gatlinburg. Each day begins with a complimentary full hot breakfast featuring made to order omelets, scrambled eggs, Belgian waffles, biscuits and gravy, muffins, bagels, cereal, and even more delicious food. With an enclosed heated pool and hot tub, unlimited high-speed wireless internet access, and plenty of fun within walking distance, you’ll never be bored when you stay with us. To start planning your vacation, browse our selection of Gatlinburg hotel rooms!