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Posted by Jon Hoffman in Things To Do
Did you know that the Gatlinburg-Pigeon Forge area has its own rich Irish heritage?
It's a fact. The Tennessee Smoky Mountains were settled by Scots-Irish immigrants. And many elements of Appalachian culture - from clogging to bluegrass music - have roots in Celtic tradition.
So, it's no wonder that folks in the Smokies go all out to celebrate St Patrick's Day. In fact, at several local landmarks, festivities continue throughout the entire month of March! Here are a few examples of the region's extended St Paddy's Day frolics.
This iconic Pigeon Forge attraction honors everyone's favorite ill-fated ocean liner, Titanic. And from March 1 through 31, special celebrations pay tribute to the 159 Irish passengers and crew members who sailed on the luxury steamer's maiden voyage.
Visit anytime between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. to enjoy:
While you're there, be sure to explore the museum's magnificent galleries, exact replicas of Titanic's Gilded Age staterooms. It's an unforgettable look at a luxurious bygone era.
If you're in the Tennessee Smokies between Thursday, March 17, and Sunday, March 20, don't miss the “Get Lucky” family-friendly festivities in downtown Gatlinburg. For four days and nights, the entire city will be bedecked with emerald green. Street vendors and local eateries will serve up scrumptious Irish fare. And, in the evenings between 5 and 9 p.m., strolling players, step-dancers, and bagpipers will roam throughout the streets, performing jaunty jigs, reels, and more.
If you've never crossed Gatlinburg's thrilling SkyBridge, now's your chance. All during March, this 700-foot-long suspension bridge will sparkle with more than 18,000 green LED lights - a literal tunnel of luminous green, complete with glittering shamrock motifs.
At the end of the bridge, you'll find a 30-foot-tall tree - spangled with emerald-green lights - plus a magical pot of gold. And, on Friday and Saturday evenings, you'll enjoy a crackling rainbow-colored fire in the SkyDeck's popular fire pit.
If you're here on the 18th, take the chairlift to SkyLift Park at 10 p.m. to join an exciting fireworks-viewing party. You'll have the best seat in town! (Be sure to order tickets in advance.)
On St Paddy's Day itself, The Island at Pigeon Forge shimmers with shamrock green. Green water spouts from the fountains, and green lights drape the The Great Smoky Mountain Wheel. Plus, starting at 2 p.m., gifted singers, step-dancers, and musicians will perform toe-tapping Celtic favorites.
Shop for authentic Irish and Scottish treasures at Celtic Heritage (Village Shoppes, Gatlinburg). Savor delicious Irish delicacies at legendary local restaurants. Plus, cook up your own savory corned-beef feast in the comfort of your Smoky Mountains cabin. Contact Volunteer Cabin Rentals now to book your Irish Month cabin rental!
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