Experience an outdoor concert like no other amidst the scenic beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains. The Blue Ridge Gathering offers folk and Celtic tunes in a breathtaking amphitheater setting.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
Casual hikers and concertgoers alike will find this suitable; no rigorous activity required.
Wildlife
History
The Great Smoky Mountains Heritage Center showcases the cultural history of Appalachia, with roots dating back to early settlers.
Conservation
The area emphasizes preservation efforts, with initiatives focused on maintaining wildlife habitats and sustainable tourism.
Great Smoky Mountains Heritage Center
Experience an outdoor concert like no other amidst the scenic beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains. The Blue Ridge Gathering offers folk and Celtic tunes in a breathtaking amphitheater setting.
The Great Smoky Mountains Heritage Center in Townsend, Tennessee preserves and interprets the cultural and natural heritage of East Tennessee. The center operates a museum and village with two indoor galleries and seventeen preserved Appalachian structures, offering visitors exhibits, interactive programs, and live demonstrations that showcase local traditions.
It offers a variety of guided experiences and events including bus tours to Cades Cove (private and public), a special elk bugling bus tour that visits the Oconaluftee/Cherokee area, national park tours with guest hosts, and seasonal sunset concerts featuring bluegrass and traditional music. Tours run on climate-controlled, ADA-accessible buses with experienced drivers and small-group options for private bookings. Additional classes and workshops, such as a folk medicine Fire Cider workshop, expand hands-on learning opportunities.
Annual memberships provide unlimited museum access, free admission to events, complimentary concert tickets, and tiered benefits like discounts, special invitations, and reserved parking. The Heritage Center emphasizes accessible programming and curated cultural interpretation for families, visitors, and researchers interested in Appalachian life. Location in Townsend, Tennessee places the center near the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and makes it a convenient base for park tours and regional music events. Visitors can select single experiences like general museum admission or bundled offerings including membership and guided tours to tailor a visit. Programs feature demonstrations, music, interpretation, and year-round educational activities.
Tours Offered
9
Public, private, and specialty bus tours
Location
Townsend, TN
Gateway to Great Smoky Mountains
Village Structures
17 structures
Preserved Appalachian buildings
Memberships
Available
Annual perks and discounts available
Book museum admission, reserve public or private bus tours, sign up for workshops, or join an annual membership to enjoy exhibits, concerts, and regional programming in Townsend, Tennessee.
Arrive early and explore trails
Take time before the concert to hike the nearby trails and enjoy mountain views.
Bring layers for the evening
Temperatures can drop after sunset; dress in layers to stay comfortable.
Park early to secure a spot
Parking fills quickly during events; arrive early to find convenient parking.
Carry a light snack or picnic
Enjoy a picnic or snacks during the concert to keep energy up.
Comfortable outdoor seating or blanket
Bring a comfortable seat or blanket to relax while enjoying the music.
fall
Layered clothing
Dress in layers to adapt to changing temperatures after sunset.
fall
Bug spray
Apply bug spray to stay comfortable during outdoor evening hours.
summer
Portable flashlight or headlamp
Useful for walking back to your vehicle after dark.
any|night