Illustration of various iconic locations in the state of Tennessee

Tennessee statewide events

Learn about festivals, community outings, sports competitions and AAA Branch location events.

Nov.

01

Dia de los Muertos Parade and Festival -- Memphis

Memphis honors Latino heritage with a vibrant Day of the Dead celebration featuring traditional music, colorful altars, authentic Mexican cuisine, and cultural performances. The festival creates a meaningful cultural exchange while celebrating life and remembrance in true Memphis style.

Dia de los Muertos Parade and Festival -- Memphis

Nov.

01

Grains and Grits Festival -- Townsend

This unique 21+ celebration brings together Southern spirits and gourmet cuisine in the peaceful Smoky Mountains. Attendees can sample craft spirits and bourbon while enjoying live music and local food vendors in an authentic mountain setting. 

Grains and Grits Festival -- Townsend

Nov.

06

Gatlinburg Chili Cookoff -- Gatlinburg

Local restaurants and amateur chefs compete in this annual culinary competition while kicking off Gatlinburg’s Winter Magic season. The event combines hearty mountain comfort food with the beginning of Gatlinburg's spectacular holiday light displays.

Gatlinburg Chili Cookoff -- Gatlinburg

Nov.

08

Memphis Crafts and Drafts Holiday Market -- Memphis

This community experience features local artisans, handmade gifts, and holiday services perfect for Christmas shopping. Food trucks provide tasty outdoor treats, making this a complete holiday outing for families seeking unique, locally-made presents.

Memphis Crafts and Drafts Holiday Market -- Memphis

Nov.

25

Great Smoky Holiday Arts & Crafts Festival -- Gatlinburg

The largest collective of independent artisans in the country presents their exclusive handcrafted gifts at the Gatlinburg Convention Center. Visitors can discover traditional Tennessee crafts including quilts, carved items, baskets, candles, pottery, and unique handmade jewelry created using generations-old techniques. The Festival includes the Thanksgiving Arts & Crafts Show (November 25– 30) and Christmas Arts & Crafts Show (December 1– 7)

 

Great Smoky Holiday Arts & Crafts Festival -- Gatlinburg

Dec.

05

Fantasy of Lights Christmas Parade -- Gatlinburg

This 50th anniversary celebration features over one million LED Christmas lights illuminating downtown Gatlinburg's main thoroughfare. The award-winning parade includes elaborate floats, marching bands, larger-than-life balloons, and concludes with Santa Claus spreading holiday cheer.

Fantasy of Lights Christmas Parade -- Gatlinburg

Dec.

06

3rd Annual Tennessee Festival of Vendors -- Hixon

The largest holiday shopping event of the year features unique vendors, handmade gifts, and holiday services at Hixson Community Center. Special appearances include Mrs. Claus for photos, Ms. Tennessee Universal Global USA, and Toys for Tots collection.

3rd Annual Tennessee Festival of Vendors -- Hixon

Jan.

13

International Blues Challenge -- Memphis

The Blues Foundation brings together performers from around the world to compete in Memphis, the birthplace of the blues. This prestigious competition showcases emerging talent while celebrating the musical genre that helped define American culture.

International Blues Challenge -- Memphis

Jan.

16

Smoky Mountain Elvis Festival -- Pigeon Forge

Tribute artists honor the King of Rock and Roll with performances, contests, and Elvis memorabilia displays at Grand Smokies Resort Lodge & Event Center. The festival celebrates Elvis's connection to Tennessee while providing entertainment for fans of all ages in the heart of the Smokies. 

 

Smoky Mountain Elvis Festival -- Pigeon Forge

Jan.

25

Nashville: The Encore Tour at Ryman Auditorium -- Nashville

This special theatrical presentation brings Nashville's musical heritage to life through storytelling, live performances, and multimedia presentations. The show celebrates the city's role as Music City while educating audiences about its cultural significance.

Nashville: The Encore Tour at Ryman Auditorium -- Nashville

Jan.

30

ChocolateFest -- Knoxville

Sweet lovers unite for this decadent celebration featuring local chocolatiers, dessert vendors, and cocoa-themed activities. The festival provides the perfect antidote to post-holiday blues with indulgent treats and warm community atmosphere. The event includes both Friday evening "After Dark" sessions (ages 21+) and Saturday daytime sessions.

 

ChocolateFest -- Knoxville

Feb.

06

Urban Ski Weekend -- Gatlinburg

This unique four-day celebration combines winter sports culture with urban entertainment featuring parties, live music, and social events. The weekend attracts diverse crowds looking to experience mountain resort atmosphere with contemporary flair and nightlife.

Urban Ski Weekend -- Gatlinburg

Feb.

14

Stupid Cupid Pub Crawl -- Nashville

Music City Pub Crawl's 15th annual Valentine's Day celebration takes participants to five downtown bars with exclusive drink specials. The event features Valentine-themed games, costume contests, prizes for best outfits, and entertainment while exploring Nashville's nightlife scene.

Stupid Cupid Pub Crawl -- Nashville

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