Annual Events and Festivals
Experience Authentic Appalachian Events
From celebrations for all holidays and the Polar Express to craft fairs, markets, music, marathons and more, the excitement never stops in Bryson City. Our mountain sides are constantly buzzing with wonderful events, festivals and Can't-miss live music. Don’t miss out on all of the fun!
Here are just a few of the annual events that come back year after year:
- Freedom Fest - An Independence Day celebration on the 4th of July
- Fall Events at Darnell Farms - Hayrides to a pumpkin patch, and a series of special fall events including Plow Day and Harvest Festival
- Strawberry Jam at Darnell Farms in May
- NOCtoberfest at the Nantahala Outdoor Center in October
- Polar Express Train Excursions in November and December
- The Smoky Mountain Christmas Light Spectacular in November and December
- Darnell Farms Holiday Hayrides in November and December
- The Yard Outdoor Ice Skating Rink in November and December
- Town Tree Lighting on the Saturday after Thanksgiving
- Cookies and Hot Cocoa at the Visitor Center in November and December
- Christmas Parade on the first Saturday in December
Select your vacation dates on the calendar below on the left and see what events are scheduled. Make sure to check back because we are adding new events weekly!
Smoky Mountain Farmers and Artisans Market
Local farmers and authentic artisans Picnic tables Pet-friendly (must be leashed & please pick up after them) Rain or shine event…
Classic Hikes of the Smokies - Charlies Bunion
Charlies Bunion 8 miles | Difficult Appalachian Trail, Mountain Views, Out & Back ‘Classic Hikes of the Smokies’ are offered on the 2nd…
Sunset Tuckasegee River Train
Enjoy a beautiful North Carolina sunset and brilliant fall colors as you travel by rail through the quiet countryside and along the…
More Bryson City Events
Railroad Events
The Great Smoky Mountains Railroad, one of Bryson City’s signature attractions…
Valentines Day
Spend a romantic weekend in Bryson City. From cozy cabins to train excursions, to a…
Spring & Easter
Visit Bryson City and the Great Smoky Mountains for events and things to do.
Strawberry Jam
A spectacular half marathon and 5K run with a Smoky Mountain setting at Darnell Farm…
Concerts & Live Music
Catch some authentic Appalachian live music at our Farmers Market, or pull up to the…
Festivals
Enjoy the festivals in Bryson City for family fun, live music, food, and…
Fall Events
Cool mountain air, colorful leaves, gatherings around the fire pit - find fall events…
Christmas & Holiday
The Christmas holiday season is extra special in Bryson City. A drive-thru light…
Submit Your Event
If you're hosting an event within Bryson City and Swain County, submit your event…