What's Doin' in the Smokies – Winter 2011-12

22nd Annual Wilderness Wildlife Week
From: Jan. 7, 2012 To: Jan. 14, 2012
Every year Wilderness Wildlife Week in Pigeon Forge brings together nature lovers from all over the country. The festival features many different activities that are sure to please every type of nature lover. 100 experts that will share their knowledge and experience with you during the week in dozens of workshops, lectures, and seminars. Become one with nature on more than 50 guided walks and hikes that are designed for all levels! During Appalachiafest there will be live Smoky Mountain music for your listening pleasure!

Winter Magic Tunes & Tales
From: Nov. 25, 2011 To: Dec. 17, 2011

Christmas just isn’t the same without some Dickens-era caroling! Tales carolers stroll up and down the Parkway from five to nine in the evening serenading passersby and shoppers alike. Experience a Dickens Christmas at Winter Magic Tunes & Tales in Gatlinburg.

Saddle Up
February 23-24

This award-winning, four-day festival includes entertainment presented the cowboy way, including concerts by cowboy poets and western musicians. You’ll enjoy the cowboy-themed activities at the Buckeroo Roundup along with a hearty lunch at the Chuckwagon Cookoff. Your toes will tap and your boots will scoot at Saturday night’s Cowboy Dance. Wrap up a weekend of western entertainment with a chuckwagon breakfast and Cowboy Church on Sunday morning.

Quiltfest
March 14-17

Mountain Quiltfest is a favorite event for quilters and crafters. In fact, more than 20,000 visitors come each year to experience classes and seminars, shop a large vendor mall and view the works of art at the impressive quilt show. More than 60 classes and seminars are scheduled with instruction by some of the nation’s top quilting experts.

Ice Carving Competition
January 14
One day only, they’re back! Those champion chainsaw slinging, blowtorch wielding, iceblock chopping sculptors who took Titanic Pigeon Forge by storm last year. In 2012 they’ll be joined by a new batch of professional and amateur contenders, ready to whip 250-pound blocks of ice into frozen works of art. Bring the family and your camera for this one-day ice spectacular.