Pigeon Forge Rotary Club Crafts Festival - 2021

When the scrapbook paper, scissors, yarn, hot glue gun, paint, and autumn Pinterest boards come out, you know it’s crafting season! Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, hosts the Rotary Club Crafts Festival every year in the fall. This fall festival has been held in the Great Smoky Mountains for 46 years and counting. If you want some arts and crafts inspiration — and want to support Appalachian artisans — come out to Patriot Park this October (2021) on your Pigeon Forge vacation.

Things to Do
Autumn is festival time, a time to get outside, enjoy the mountain breezes, and check out handmade items from local artists and crafters at the Pigeon Forge Rotary Club Crafts Festival! Find one-of-a-kind creations — like carved knickknacks, exquisite jewelry, glass-blown ornaments, cozy quilts, scented candles, and all-natural lotions and potions. You can purchase the items you love and simply walk around and appreciate the rest. It’s a nice way to spend a few hours with family and friends.

Plus, since this event is held at Patriot Park, you can walk down to the Little Pigeon River for a scenic break or take a 5-minute walk to The Old Mill Square. Browse shops, watch a blacksmith work, toss a coin into the wishing fountain, dine on Southern staples, buy homemade candies, and grab a few more Pigeon Forge souvenirs.

Admission
No tickets, passes, or fees are required when you attend The Pigeon Forge Rotary Club Crafts Festival. This event is FREE to enter! Parking is also free. However, the Rotary Club of Pigeon Forge does accept donations that are later distributed to local charities.

Dates & Hours
Held: October 1-30, 2021
Open Daily: 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.

Location
Patriot Park
186 Old Mill Ave
Pigeon Forge, TN 37863

Arts & Crafts Shops in Pigeon Forge
Along with seasonal craft shows, Pigeon Forge is home to a variety of arts and crafts shops year-round. If you are interested in seeing more local art pieces and handmade Appalachian crafts, plan to stop by a few of our recommendations below.

Country Mill Crafts
Dixie Darlin
Handmade Adventures
Pigeon Forge Soap Company
Pigeon Forge Traders Gift Shop
Pigeon River Pottery
Sandman’s Workshop
Thomas Kinkade Gallery & Gifts

Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community
Another great place to see loads of lovely handmade creations in the Smokies is in neighboring Gatlinburg, just a hop, skip, and a jump down the road from Pigeon Forge. Here you’ll find the Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community — the largest group of independent artisans in the nation! This 8-mile loop takes you around to visit 100s of local artisans, usually found crafting away inside their shop.

You can ride the trolley (yellow route) or take your car. Peruse for mementos to take home, admire stunning works of art, and even speak with the craftsmen on their unique trade. It’s a truly neat way to experience Appalachian culture. There are also eateries throughout so you can stop for a bite to refuel and relax between shops.

Arrowmont School of Arts & Crafts
For a more hands-on experience, join a workshop at the Arrowmont School of Arts & Crafts in nearby Gatlinburg. This historic school offers some of the best crafting workshops for all skill levels. It’s a nice way to dip into your creative side and unwind from all the worries and cares of the world for a spell. A few areas of practice are below.

Clay sculpting
Weaving
Drawing
Painting
Quilting
Sewing
Metal spinning
Embroidering
Cake sculpting
Table making
Stone carving
Storytelling with mixed media

Where to Stay | Pigeon Forge Cabins
Need a place to stay while in town for the Pigeon Forge Rotary Club Crafts Festival? Pigeon Forge TN Cabins has just what you need — and want! Each cabin features keyless entry and a fully equipped kitchen to make your stay more convenient. You can practice arts and crafts, find inspiration with scenic views in your own space in the Smokies, bring your pets, and stick close to downtown fun. Plus, you’ll have your pick of relaxing and entertaining amenities to enjoy on vacation!