Fall’s brilliant autumn hues serve as the back drop for events all across the region. In Appalachian tradition, this is the time to get out and celebrate the bounty of the harvest and the beauty of the season.  Plan a shopping and culinary adventure. Visit local artisan shops, or sample local food trucks and micro-breweries across the region.  One thing that is always true in East Tennessee.  At the heart of every adventure is beautiful scenery and southern hospitality.

Here is a list of featured shopping and culinary adventures to add to your calendar:

Sweetwater, TN is not just the “sweetest” city in the region, but the downtown will capture your imagination with its heart.  This is a farming community and home to Benton Bacon, Sweetwater Cheese, Tsali Notch Vineyards, and their newest artisan food stop – Grain Bin Commodities. Pies, cookies, and cakes like your grandmother made fill the antique cases as you walk into the delicious smelling bakery. Enjoy lunch while seated on the front porch of the gazing out at the “farm.”  Open Wednesday through Saturday.

Market Square Farmer’s Market-Saturdays through Dec 19- Cider, baked goods, crafts, and farm fresh winter vegetable vendors line the heart of downtown each Saturday morning.  Grab a coffee and stroll square.

Nov 11- Nightmare before Christmas- sip and paint at the Lilly Pad Hopyard.  Locally crafted beers from homegrown hops, a roaring fire, and music are part of the experience.  Be sure to bring a camera. The Cumberland Mountains are your backdrop.

Nov 13 – Holiday Handcrafters Fair at the Great Smoky Mountains Heritage Center 10 am to 4 pm. Dozens of vendors from in and around the Smoky Mountain Region, will have homemade and/or handcrafted goods for sale.  Admission is free.

35 North Food Park in Farragut is serving up craft brews, craft whiskeys, and a rotating schedule of food vendors. Open Daily.

Downtown Morristown is a historic walkable downtown that features many small shops.  Rowena’s on Main carries a variety of brands such as Hobo, Vera Bradley, and Spartina.  A small town with big city shopping and parking is free.

Support these vendors and artists.  Shop and buy local.