Gatlinburg Springfest
March 11 – June 7, 2009
After a winter of slumber, the Smoky Mountains are ready to break out in a burst of color as springtime yields a magnificent display of wildflowers, dogwoods, red buds and other spring blooming trees all along the parkway.
This most colorful of seasons is matched by the equally colorful events and attractions highlighted during the Gatlinburg area’s annual Springfest – a 3-month long celebration that also encompasses the neighboring cities of Pigeon Forge and Sevierville.
During the three-month Springfest celebration that begins in early March and continues into the second week of June, visitors witness Gatlinburg’s transformation into spring when the city’s streets overflow with baskets of beautiful blooming flowers and plants. Pansies, daffodils, tulips, mandevillas, bougainvilleas, lantanas, scaveolas and wave petunias are among the many varieties of flowers seen throughout the city. Live entertainment can be found along sidewalks, adding a festive flair to the time-honored Downtown Parkway stroll.
The 59th Annual Spring Wildflower Pilgrimage, April 22-26, is another popular event among hikers and nature lovers who love to see delicate wildflowers in bloom.
Of course, any time of year is a good time to enjoy the exciting Wild Bear Falls Indoor Water Park located at Westgate Smoky Mountain Resort. The largest indoor water park in the south, Wild Bear Falls offers more than 300,000 gallons and 60,000 square feet of wet excitement under a retractable roof.
Situated adjacent to Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the water park pays homage to famous local landmarks with attractions like Cades Cove Lazy River, Clingman’s Dome 360 foot body slide, Laurel Falls 300 foot tube slide and Little Pigeon River – a zero entry pool and toddler play area.
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