9 Lakes, free admission, things to do
Dogwood Spring: Four Weeks of Festivals in the 9 Lakes Region
When the dogwoods are blooming, the festival season has begun in the 9 Lakes of East TN. Each year, we look forward to spring festival season for the variety of events that are offered in the region. Some of these events support art and cultural events. Some celebrate the roots of the reason. Many are... Read More
9 Lakes, Area Events, conservation, things to do
Volunteers- Keeping the 9 Lakes Beautiful
“Volunteers don’t get paid, not because they’re worthless, but because they’re priceless.” ~ Sherry Anderson The 9 Lakes partners have a long history of service to the region. The Region has greatly benefited from the sweat equity of previous and current volunteers. When the Civilian Conservation Corps were brought to East Tennessee during the Great... Read More
9 Lakes, fishing
Experience the Best Fishing in the Southeast
Fishing the 9 Lakes Region is a four seasons activity, and winter fishing absolutely needs to be on every angler’s bucket list. Quite simply, when the temperatures dip, fishing bites rise. Trout, small and large mouth bass, sauger, striped bass, walleye, crappie, and muskie are biting when the water temperatures drop into the 50’s. What... Read More
9 Lakes, Area Events, family holidays
Merry and Bright – 12 Jolly Ideas to Light Up Your Holidays
The holiday season is a time to be shared with friends, family, and loved ones. There are so many sights and sounds to experience in the region. Small towns or the larger cities are made for mingling with neighbors and finding your inner child. While is doesn’t often snow at this time of year, there... Read More
9 Lakes, downtowns, family holidays, shopping
Go Downtown- Shop Small, Shop Local
Our towns and cities are already decked out for the holidays. Shopping downtown supports local businesses, artisans, and supports the heritage of these communities. The 9 Lakes region is chock full of small downtowns offering up Appalachian treasures. Antiques, crafts, and locally produced culinary products are sure to please the most discriminating shopper. Gather your... Read More
9 Lakes, Area Events, Music
Music with Heart
Music With Heart Southern Appalachia has long been known for a culture that is ingrained with music that invokes heart-felt longing, love, and inspiration. There is perhaps no area of these great mountains and valleys more immersed in this musical heritage than Union County Tennessee. Union County natives have always had a heart for music.... Read More
9 Lakes, Area Events, Cultural Influences, driving trails, road trip
Festivals and Events in September
September is the best month of festivals and events to experience the 9 Lakes Region of East Tennessee The diverse range of cultures and heritage that shaped the region are celebrated through food, music, and outdoor adventures. Step out of the ordinary to experience something new. Sep 1- UT Football Season Opens– Neyland Stadium... Read More
9 Lakes, bird watching
Beach Shorebirds in East Tennessee?
If you love watching shorebirds, East Tennessee has some of the best “beach” locations to watch for the many species that migrate and nest in the area. When the high summer lake water levels begin to recede, birding season becomes a bit more fun for birders and photographers in the 9 Lakes Region. Gulls, egrets,... Read More
9 Lakes, Area Events, fall foliage, family holidays, National Parks, things to do
Sky High Adventures in the 9 Lakes
August skies in the 9 Lakes always seem to be bluer and the sunsets are more dramatic. making this the perfect month for “sky high” adventures. Here are some of our favorite ways to get vertical: Located in the heart of downtown, the Gatlinburg SkyBridge is the longest suspension bridge in North America. It spans... Read More
9 Lakes, caves, family holidays, Lakes, things to do
Family Fun on Rainy Days
Sometimes it rains at the lake during your summer vacation. While we love our rainy days to read and relax, we also know that the kiddos may not be thrilled at staying inside. So, here are some family, fun suggestions of places to check out on a rainy summer day Go Retro– An ice cold... Read More