Les Stroud, better known as Survivorman, has many accolades to his name. He is the only producer in TV history to produce an internationally broadcast series completely written, taped, and hosted by 1 person – himself. The highly rated Survivorman show placed Stroud out in the wild by himself to survive for a week at a time. The show is one of the highest rated in the history of Discovery Channel (among others), Stroud has been nominated for 21 Canadian Screen Awards – winning for Best Writer (twice) and Best Photography – produced many TV specials, and is credited with being the creator of the survivor-TV genre. If you’ve ever watched Survivorman, you know he’s also a talented musician. He often played harmonica during his long nights alone, and his musical talents stretch beyond that.
This summer, Les Stroud brings his talents to a favorite local stage – in the Ole Smoky Moonshine Holler – for a FREE concert on June 24. The Holler is always alive with performances, and this special event this June is sure to have you tapping your toes and clapping along. While you’re there, check out the flavors at Ole Smoky Moonshine, where you can try samples and get jars to take back to your cabin. What could be better than rocking on your deck with a glass of moonshine after a night of music in the heart of Gatlinburg?
Ole Smoky Moonshine
Grab some Moonshine Cherries to top off your drinks, or pick up jars of the classic White Lightnin’, Harley-Davidson Road House Customs, Blue Flame, Strawberry, Hunch Punch, Apple Pie, Blackberry, Peach, Pineapple, and Lemon Drop – just to name a few! And Ole Smoky Moonshine isn’t the only distillery in the area. You can also check out Sugarlands Distilling Company or Doc Collier Moonshine, or tour the Rocky Top Wine Trail. It features Doc Collier Moonshine and 5 local wineries: Hillside Winery, Apple Barn Winery, Mountain Valley Winery, Mill Bridge Winery, and Sugarland Cellars.
Live Music in the Smokies
Love live music? You’re in luck in the Smokies. The Ole Smoky Moonshine Holler has concerts going on all the time, but there are plenty of other places to listen. The Ole Smoky Barn Stage at The Island also has live music – and moonshine inside – next to the show fountain. Three Jimmy’s Restaurant and Smoky Mountain Brewery feature live music throughout the week, and shows like Dixie Stampede, Country Tonite, The Smoky Mountain Opry, and Soul of Motown are fun, family-friendly music shows.
More Summertime Events
Summer is a great time to visit Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge because of all the fun events going on. From music and arts to food and family-friendly fun, there’s always something going on. Here’s a taste of what’s happening this summer.
Dollywood Barbeque & Bluegrass | May 26 – June 4
FREE bluegrass music throughout the park (with Dollywood admission), plus great barbeque picks
Smoky Mountain Tunes & Tales | June 9 – July 29
The sounds of the mountains fill the streets, with costumed storytellers, musicians, and artists.
FREE Parkway Trolley | June 17 – August 12
Hop aboard the FREE Gatlinburg Trolley for easy travel around town this summer.
Pigeon Forge Patriot Festival | July 4
Food, kid-friendly games, patriotic music, headlining acts, and a fantastic fireworks display
Gatlinburg River Raft Regatta | July 4
Compete for the best floating Trash (not handmade) or Treasure (handmade) at the Christ in the Smokies bridge on River Road!
Gatlinburg Craftsmen’s Fair | July 14 – 23
Handmade gifts, one-of-a-kind souvenirs, and the incredible work of craftsmen and artists from across the country
Cool Cabins for Summertime Getaways
As you plan your getaway for live music and events in the Smokies, check out our hundreds of cabins in Pigeon Forge. We have cozy 1-2 bedroom cabins, spacious large group lodges for retreats or reunions, and 3-5 bedroom cabins that are comfortable for family vacations and smaller groups. We even have pet-friendly and budget-friendly options! And our cabins are loaded with amenities, offering everything from private indoor pools, theater rooms, game rooms, and fully equipped kitchens to hot tubs, mountain views, Wi-Fi, and washer/dryer units.
After listening to live music in the Holler, spending a day touring the Rocky Top Wine Trail, or exploring the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, you’ll appreciate having one of our comfortable cabins to call home. They all feature full kitchens where you can make your own meals, and they offer everything from bunk beds to king-size beds to fit whatever group you’re traveling with. You can browse online, or you can give us a call (866.513.7885) and let one of our vacation planners help you create the perfect getaway in Pigeon Forge!