Adventure abounds in the Great Smoky Mountains of East Tennessee. Wild rivers, majestic mountains and dense forests lure millions of people to the region each year. One often overlooked gateway community to the Smoky Mountains is Newport, a town steeped in an culinary history that transcends time and the imagination. Moonshine, the moon pie, canned…
In the spring of 2015, a small group of citizens took on a project to secure and renovate a historic building on the main square of downtown Wartburg. The challenges would have deterred many, but not this group! Countless small rural county downtowns are blighted with dilapidated vacant buildings, and county budgets that don’t extend…
Whimsy and the spring season beckon in the 9 Lakes Region. Like our forbearers, we are drawn outdoors to watch spring unfurl. Ancient Lore Village is a whimsical nod to the deep connection between people and the heritage of early settlers to this region. The first pioneers in the 9 Lakes region were German, Scots-Irish….
The Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens is a timeless reminder of the importance of finding joy and cheer when our lives are filled with demands. The book was written at a time of great social change, when holidays became less important to celebrate. The story illustrates that holidays are a spirit lifting time for everyone…
The sights and sounds of the holiday season have a way of lifting our spirits. Traditionally, the last weekend of November begins the transformation of small towns, public parks, and local businesses into holiday wonderlands. Across the 9 Lakes Region, the colorful light displays, holiday music, and seasonal treats will delight the young and young…
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…
There is no shortage of places to view fireworks this July 4th. With the easing of COVID restrictions, events are scheduled across the 9 Lakes Region. As in previous years, you can choose to go by car or by boat to see fireworks displays near to where you are staying. Many of the events will…
Are you ready to get out and play in May? The 9 Lakes Region is bursting with fun, outdoor activities across the region. If you love live music, great food, arts and crafts, or if you are simply ready to enjoy a play day outside with friends, you won’t want have to look far or…
Muhammed Ali once said ““Service to others is the rent you pay for your room here on Earth.” What a fitting statement for Earth Day 2021. Eastern Tennessee is home to one of the most biodiverse watersheds in the US, supporting not only the wildlife, but also the recreational activities beloved by visitors. So how…
After a yearlong slumber, spring events are popping up across the region. One way to immerse yourself in the region’s culture is to visit one of the many festivals. Did you know that the people who settled in this region migrated from cities across Europe and, more recently, world-wide, bringing their customs and rich cultural…
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