6 Exciting Things to Do in the Smoky Mountains in September You Don’t Want to Miss

September is a great time to visit the Smoky Mountains! Not only is this when the weather starts to cool off and fade into fall, there are also a variety of fun and exciting things to do in the Smoky Mountains in September that you and your family are sure to love.

To learn about our favorite upcoming events this month, read below!

1. Shades of the Past Rod Run

The perfect event for anyone who loves classic cars, the Shades of the Past Rod Run is an annual outdoor car show held at Dollywood’s Splash Country every September. It invites car enthusiasts from all across the country to come together for a fun-filled weekend to admire the best collection of antique roadsters and custom automobiles on the road today.

There are over 200 cars expected to be on display at this year’s event, including American muscle cars, Deuce Coupes, roadsters, and more! All of the cars on display were made prior to 1972.

2. Pigeon Forge Fall Rod Run

Shades of the Past isn’t the only car-themed thing to do in the Smoky Mountains in September! In fact, it is just the beginning.

The Pigeon Forge Fall Rod Run is considered to be the main event in terms of car shows in Pigeon Forge this season. This exciting event brings in even more classic beauties and takes over the city of Pigeon Forge, lining the Parkway and filling the streets.

If you want to get a closer look at these fine examples of American motor history, you can tour many of the cars on display at the LeConte Center. This is where you can see the best of the best in terms of cars participating in the event, as well as register to win a variety of exciting door prizes and other awards.

3. Old Mill Heritage Day

Old Mill Heritage Day is one of the most unique things to do in the Smoky Mountains in September, as it is one of the few events dedicated solely to the history and traditions of our area. During this event at The Old Mill in Pigeon Forge, guests are invited to experience several live music performances, dancing, craft demonstrations, and festive games. Not to mention, there will be an abundance of delicious food for you to sample while you are here.

Be sure to bring chairs and blankets so you have a comfortable place to sit while you enjoy all of this amazing entertainment.

4. National Quartet Convention

Drawing in tens of thousands of visitors each year, the National Quartet Convention is a unique opportunity for you and your family or group to experience a fun and exciting musical event you don’t often get to see. This convention invites gospel fans and singers from around the nation to join together for a thrilling week of live performances you do not want to miss.

5. Taste of Autumn

Taste of Autumn allows guests to sample food from some of Gatlinburg’s very best restaurants at one convenient location. This year’s event will take place on September 12, 2019 from 5 – 8 p.m. at the Gatlinburg Convention Center. The Ultimate Eagles Tribute Band, On the Border, will perform. 

This is one of our favorite things to do in the Smoky Mountains in September because it allows guests to enjoy the culinary skills of amazing local restaurants, all while supporting an amazing charity organization. Proceeds from this event benefit the United Way of Sevier County, an organization dedicated to improving the lives of families who live in our area.

6. Oktoberfest At Ober

Last, but not least, rounding out our list of our favorite things to do in the Smoky Mountains in September is Ober Gatlinburg’s annual Oktoberfest celebration. Featuring good food, live music, and a lot of fun, this festive event is sure to help you and your loved ones create long-lasting memories of your latest trip to the Smokies.

We love this event because it is unlike anything else you will experience in the area. This is the only place you can find authentic German biers, schnitzel, strudel, yodeling, oompah music, and Bavarian folk dancing. The Oktoberfest celebration starts in late September and continues throughout the month of October. 

To stay up-to-date on all of the fun and exciting things to do in the Smoky Mountains in September and the rest of the year, don’t forget to check out our Smoky Mountain Events Calendar. There, you will find everything you need to know about all of the thrilling upcoming events and activities planned in the area.