The Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community Easter Show is the premier showcase for the local artisans. This free-to-attend event features independent artists from all across the Smokies convening in the Gatlinburg Convention Center to present their work. Pottery, wicker baskets, original carvings, homemade food, and unique artwork are just some of the crafts for sale at the event.
There is no better place to take in the local culture than this event. The culture of the Appalachian Mountains has a long tradition of handicrafts. The original families of this mountainous region lived far away from any big cities that offered pre-made products from a factory. As such, the families of the Appalachian Mountains relayed on their own skills to craft the items necessary for day-to-day life. Baskets, brooms, jams, jellies, quilts, and pottery were all made at home, and these skills were passed down through the families. Some of the artists showcased in the event learned these skills from their parents, who had the knowledge passed down from their parents, all the way back to those early families. This show is just a small sampling of the long, rich history Gatlinburg has to offer.
If you are looking for a unique gift from your travels, this is the place to find it. Far from an ordinary key-chain or tee-shirt, you can take home a real, local piece of culture back to your friends or family. With a wide variety of goods, there is something for everyone available here. Perhaps you are interested in how the artists craft their wares? Demonstrations are a key part of this event and occur throughout the day.
If you liked what you saw, you can sample more local artist throughout Gatlinburg. After you take in the show, you can visit the members of The Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community in their shops. 120 artists work on an 8-mile loop in Historic Gatlinburg. You can either drive this loop and enjoy free parking at any of the shops, or you can ride the trolley through the loop. At their shops, you can further engage with artists: ask questions about their crafts, view a wider selection of sale items, or view demonstrations. Additional information on the show, and on The Smoky Arts & Crafts Community can be found here.
Where:
Gatlinburg Convention Center
234 Historic Nature Trail
Gatlinburg, TN 37738
When: March 29, 2018 – March 31, 2018
Cost: Free