Next Wednesday marks the beginning of the 5th Annual Smoky Mountain Songwriters Festival! From August 24th to 28th, Gatlinburg will be taken over by talented and original songwriters of bluegrass, country, and folk music. It's only proper that the festival should be held at the gateway to the Smoky Mountains, where this music was first created. Any and all music lovers who will be staying with us at the Ramada will not want to miss this unique and quality music festival!
It all kicks off next Wednesday with the opening ceremonies at 7:00 p.m. Keith Anderson, who co-wrote the 2000 Garth Brooks and George Jones duet hit "Beer Run" will be performing. Also on the bill is up and coming country music artist Karen Waldrup.
The festival prides itself on being free to the public, offering over 120 free shows across multiple venues throughout Gatlinburg for 4 days. It'll be virtually impossible not to stumble upon something amazing! There will be a few ticketed events, including "Garth Brooks' Hit Writers in Concert" happening on August 27th at the Glenstone Lodge (You may purchase tickets here: http://events.r20.constantcontact.com/register/event?oeidk=a07ecr89amf574eff91&llr=bjbdxwqab)
If you happen to be a musician yourself, there are also tons of great forums and events happening all weekend for songwriters. There will be a special meet-up for musicians and lyricists to get together and collaborate with one another. There is also a songwriting competition with cash prizes of up to $500!
No matter if you're a bluegrass fanatic, musician, or just a lover of music, the Smoky Mountain Songwriters Festival is a great time for everyone. Gatlinburg is just minutes from us here at the Ramada, so be sure to check it out during your stay with us!