Now that we’re right on the cusp of the Summer vacation season starting in the Smokies, we wanted to get you acquainted with the big Summer event we all look forward to – the 4th of July celebrations. The size and popularity of the 4th of July events between Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg can not be understated and those who want to come to the Smokies for the event will want to begin planning as soon as you finish reading this post. It’s pretty much never too early to begin planning for the 4th of July in the Smokies!

So let’s cut to the chase. Here is the rundown for Fourth of July this year.

In Pigeon Forge, Patriot Park is having Patriot Fest starting at 12:00PM. The whole park becomes a center of activity with a huge sound stage, lots of activity, food tents, cooling off station, music by Craig Morgan Band, Veterans Tribute, Pigeon Forge Community Chorus, Electric Avenue and more and much more until the fireworks start between 9:45PM to 10:00PM. See more at www.mypigeonforge.com.

And Gatlinburg will be celebrating in true traditional fashion, and all your favorite activities from the Midnight Parade to the River Raft Regatta will be ready for you to enjoy! The Midnight Parade starts on 12:01AM, one minute past midnight right at the very start of the 4th of July. The following morning, ten hours later, registration for the River Raft Regatta will begin at Christ In The Smokies (10:00AM). some free music performances will go on at various times of the day at Ripley’s Aquarium in the Smokies, and the fireworks themselves will explode over the downtown area at about 10:00PM! See more on this at www.gatlinburg.com.

Happy 4th of July everyone!