March 18, 2014
Earth Week Roundup of Events in the Smoky Mountains
Are you interested in making the planet a better place? If so, the Smoky Mountains and Gatlinburg are hosting a series of thought-provoking events during Earth Week to help locals and vacationers find green solutions while learning to live a more sustainable lifestyle.
Earth Week is April 21-April 27. This series of events in Gatlinburg is aimed at teaching and connecting people to cutting edge information and alternative solutions that will help conserve and protect the Earth by living just a little greener.
The events scheduled include a variety of options for participants to enjoy, from thrifty and green living seminars to children’s programs. Whether you simply recycle or have a passion for the environment, there is something for everyone to learn and enjoy.
April 21
Earth Week kicks off with a Green Breakfast Seminar at the Hilton Garden Inn from 9:00am to 11:00am. While at the seminar, you can learn about TVA’s Green Power Switch while enjoying a delicious breakfast.
April 22
Starting at 9:00am on Tuesday, there will be a clean up at the Spur beginning at the Gatlinburg Welcome Center. Those participating are encouraged to put together teams, and the winning team with the most litter picked up is awarded a pizza party at Big Daddy’s Pizzeria. Win or lose, Ben and Jerry’s will be on-site offering free ice cream to all those who helped.
April 23
Wednesday is all about the kids. Running from 9:00am-10:30am, Mills Park Pavilion will be holding a Children’s Planting Program. Children will be read a story and be involved in a fun planting activity. Best of all, this event is free for all ages!
April 24
No Earth Week is complete without the annual Earth Day Festival in Gatlinburg. For 7 years, the outdoor festivities have educated and entertained with activities, games, food and live music. This year Boogertown Gap will be handling the live entertainment, while local businesses will be on hand with food and craft stations, where families can have fun and learn about green practices from 3:00pm to 7:00pm.
April 25
Friday is the annual Earth Day 5k Run and Walk in Gatlinburg, where all ages and abilities are welcome to participate. The race begins at 10:00pm in front of NOC Gatlinburg.
Race Costs
Student/Youth $15
Advanced Registration $20
Registration after April 1 $25
Day of Race Registration $30
April 26
Special activities will be held in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park on Saturday from 10:00am-2:00pm. All youth are invited to celebrate National Junior Ranger Day at the National Park visitor’s centers. Activities include hands-on animal exhibits, historic toy making and Ranger-guided walks.
April 27
On Sunday, Earth Week is planned to end with a disc golf tournament hosted by Mills Park. The discs will be provided to registered participants, including lunch and a free t-shirt. Costs are $20 for adults and $15 for children with on-site registration starting at 12:30. Players will tee-off between 1:00pm and 3:00pm.
Looking for a cabin rental to enjoy the educational and fun events in the Smoky Mountains? HearthSide Cabin Rentals in Gatlinburg offers a variety of lodging options for groups of all sizes. Whether you’d like to be in tune with nature in a secluded cabin or near family and friends in group cabins, we have everything you need for the perfect mountain getaway. Check out our Find a Cabin tab to narrow down your search to the cabin size and amenities your family is looking for. See you in the Smokies!
