Fall Harvest Guide 2025

2025

NEWPORT

STREET

• ARTS & CRAFTS • FOOD VENDORS • LIVE ENTERTAINMENT • KIDDIE LAND

• MUSIC • FOOD • AND MUCH MORE!

A Special Supplement to

The Newport Plain Talk

Join us for the 38th annual Newport Harvest Street Festival!

Mark your calendars for October 4-5, 2025, as downtown Newport transforms into the heart of fall fun with the return of an East Tennessee favorite! Get ready for a weekend full of food, crafts, live entertainment and family-friendly excitement!

The celebration kicks off with a special opening ceremony coordinated by the Newport AMVETS Post 75 on Saturday morning at 9:30 am. Let’s come together to honor the brave men and women of our military! The ceremony will take place at the entertainment stage on Broadway next to the Courthouse lawn. It’s the perfect way to start the festivities and show our appreciation for those who serve!

Shopping, Crafts and Local Businesses Stroll through the festival to explore an amazing selection of handmade arts and crafts, from pottery and quilts to paintings, toys and unique home décor for fall and Christmas. Be sure to stop by our local businesses and downtown shops for even more treasures! Discover new downtown spots, meet friendly faces, and support our wonderful community.

Kids Fun at KiddieLand When the shopping’s done, KiddieLand is ready to deliver fun for the little ones! With an armband, kids can bounce, slide, and play all day long!

The Kiwanis of Newport Train is back, offering fun train rides through the festival, and we’ve got helicopter rides for kids to enjoy! Plus, Rendleton Playground will return with even more surprises like teacup rides, jeep rides, and games for all ages!

Live Music and Entertainment Get ready for a jam-packed lineup of live entertainment! Start your Saturday off with fan favorite Sammy Shults, Next the one and only Exit 8 Band who’ll be bringing all your favorite classic and southern rock hits.

You won’t want to miss singer songwriter Khloe Grace, she’s performed music all over NE Florida, SE Georgia and Tennessee. Southern Addiction will follow with a mix of country and rock tunes! We will also have our local dance studios throughout the day perform as Newport Dance and Cheer and Max Movement studios keep the fun going throughout the day. On Sunday, join us for a special service with Bridgeport Freewill Baptist Church and enjoy an afternoon filled with uplifting gospel music from Carson Creek Singers, The Crumbly Family, and more!

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Pageant Time Don’t miss out on the crowning moments! Join us on Saturday at 10:30 am on the Courthouse lawn to cheer on the little ones competing for Harvest Queen. The Miss Newport Harvest Festival pageant for ages 16-21 will close out the event. Who will wear the crown this year?

Tractors, Furry Friends and More Get a taste of tradition with artisan activities on the Main Street side of the Courthouse, and be sure to check out the Sevier County Antique Tractor display on Broadway. Plus, we’ve got some furry friends joining the fun this year!

Natasha The Dinosaur As our festival grows, we love adding new surprises for your entertainment!

This year, we’re thrilled to introduce Natasha the Dinosaur! Get ready to ROAR with excitement as Natasha makes her big appearance.

While you’re there, don’t forget to snap a picture with her as a fun keepsake of the unforgettable time you had at the Newport Harvest Street Festival!

Come celebrate the fall season at the 38th annual Newport Harvest Street Festival – a weekend filled with fun, food, and festivities for the whole family! A heartfelt thank you to our amazing sponsors for making this exciting weekend possible: Jefferson Cocke County Utility District, Sonoco, Bush’s, Rural Medical Services, American Appliance, McSpadden INC, Newport Paving, Tennova Newport Medical Ole Smoky Distillery, US Bank, Demcor and Commercial Bank.

For more details on this year’s Newport Harvest Street Festival, contact the Chamber of Commerce at 423-623-7201 or via email at lramsey@ cockecountypartnership.com or araines@cockecountypartnership.com.

For photos and updates, visit our website or follow the Newport Harvest Street Festival on Facebook!

See you there for a fall weekend full of fun and memories! www.new por tplaint alk .com

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FALL 2025 • HARVEST FESTIVAL • 3

Harvest Festival Entertainment

Schedule The day begins at 10 a.m with Newport Dance & Cheer.

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 4 Newport Arts and Athletics is the home of Newport Dance & Cheer Academy, Inc. and Newport Martial Arts Academy.

It offers classes in dance, gymnastics/acrobatics, karate, a competitive cheerleading team and occasional fitness and dance classes for adults.

Classes are offered for students ages 2.5 and older.

Newport Martial Arts Academy is led by Kyo Sah Nim, Jennifer Grillo Foster and Kyo Sah Nim, Ian Turnage, and their students study the Korean Martial Art form of Tang Soo Do. Newport Dance & Cheer Academy, has over 25 years of instruction here in Newport, is under the instruction of Director and Instructor, Susan McMahan. Assisting her are head instructors, Haley O’Pry, Avery Hensley, & Taelyr Ball.

The Star Squad cheer team is led by Julianna Hazlett. Classes are offered in ballet, tap, jazz, gymnastics/acrobatics, pointe, hip hop and more! They also have a unique Sparkle dance program for students ages 2.5-6 years old. Private lessons are also available in addition to our group classes. Their dancers have performed throughout the Eastern United States and most recently, the competition dancers performed at Walt Disney World in Orlando, Florida, as well as competing at the Epic Nationals in Sevierville, where several of their routines placed in the top five in their division along with their minis receiving a special award for their outstanding character performance. For more information on classes, please call (423) 623-4113. You can also visit them on Facebook and Instagram.

SAMMY SHULTS, 12 noon The Newport Harvest Street Festival is excited to welcome back one of Cocke County’s own, Sammy Shults. A well-known local favorite, Sammy has been entertaining crowds across the region with his heartfelt country sound that blends the best of the past with today’s hits.

Hailing right here from Cocke County, Sammy’s 4 • HARVEST FESTIVAL • FALL 2025

music reflects the roots and stories of our community. Festivalgoers can look forward to a mix of traditional country favorites and fresh new tunes that showcase his talent and love for performing.

Don’t miss the chance to enjoy Sammy Shults live on stage as part of this year’s festival lineup!

EXIT 8 BAND, 12:50 p.m.

Exit 8 Band has been rocking crowds across Tennessee, Virginia and North Carolina for over five years with a dynamic blend of country, Southern rock, classic Rock, and blues. With more than 50 years of combined experience, this five-member powerhouse delivers today’s favorites and timeless classics with energy and heart. Recent performances include the Sevier County Fair, Adventure Distilling Company, Long Branch Saloon, and Fox & Hounds. From small venues to festival stages, Exit 8 keeps audiences singing, dancing, and coming back for more.

MAX MOVEMENT, 2:30 p.m.

Max Movement is a locally owned and operated dance and gymnastics studio. We offer classes in ballet, tap, jazz, lyrical, hip hop, pointe, tumbling, and acrobatics for ages 3 and up. Recreational and competitive classes are available.

They have an awardwinning competitive team. Max Movement is located at 264 E. Main Street Newport, TN (423)-237-3823.

• SEE SCHEDULE ON PAGE 6

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FALL 2025 • HARVEST FESTIVAL • 5

• FROM SCHEDULE ON PAGE 4 KHLOE GRACE, 3:40 p.m.

The Newport Harvest Street Festival is thrilled to welcome Khloe Grace, a rising singer and songwriter from Northeast Florida.

Khloe’s love for music began at age seven while singing in church, and her vocals carry a depth and power well beyond her years.

Some of her musical influences include LeAnn Rimes, Loretta Lynn, and Anne Wilson.

A gifted songwriter, Khloe writes all of her own music. She released her first single, “Give God A Chance” in 2023 and has since followed with “Forever 13,” “I Was There for You,” and her newest single, “Ghost in the Corner.” Her song “Forever 13,” written in honor of Aubreigh Wyatt, has touched thousands of lives and now has over 1 million streams.

Khloe’s performances span genres including traditional country, new country, inspirational music, and bluegrass. She has opened for Nashville recording artists such as Craig Campbell, Glen Templeton, Linda Davis, and The Malpass Brothers, and has also worked alongside Bobby Randall of Sawyer Brown.

With her talent, dedication, and heartfelt performances, Khloe Grace is well on her way to becoming the next big country music star — and festivalgoers won’t want to miss her show!

SOUTHERN ADDICTION BAND, 4:30 P.M. Get ready for a high-energy show when the Southern Addiction Band takes the stage at the Newport Harvest Street Festival.

With more than 100 years of combined musical experience, the group brings a powerful mix of country and rock favorites. The band is made up of Robert Pack from Bybee, TN; Darrell Wilson from Mars Hill, NC; Billy Wise from Newport, TN; Dwayne Norton from Marshall, NC and Marshal Barry from Newport, TN, originally from Canada.

“We invite you all to come down to the Newport Harvest Street Festival to listen to our country and rock band.

Come and see us and have a great time!” said Robert Pack. The Southern Addiction Band promises a show you won’t want to miss!

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 5 A Day Filled With Gospel Music On Sunday at 10 a.m. start your morning off with a Sunday service by Bridgeport Freewill Baptist Church, everyone is invited to attend.

CARSON CREEK SINGERS, 12:10 p.m.

The Carson Creek Singers are made up of Roy and Paula Poore of Dandridge and Reece and Penny Grooms of Cosby.

For the past 13 years, they have been performing together, sharing their love of music at churches and community events across the area.

Known for their heartfelt harmonies and uplifting performances, the Carson Creek Singers are sure to bring a special touch of tradition to this year’s festival.

6 • HARVEST FESTIVAL • FALL 2025

THE CRUMBLEY FAMILY, 1:05 p.m.

The Crumbley Family: Carroll, Katie, and Karen started out singing Southern gospel music over 20 years ago. Since then, daughter Karen Vaughan continues to sing for the Lord along with her two beautiful daughters Jody (20) Gabriella (15) and her mom Katie. Carroll always loved having his family sing for the Lord at the Fall Festival in hopes someone would give their life to the Lord, but due to an illness over the past three years and his passing this year they’ve not been able to come and sing. The Crumbley Family looks to continue their journey honoring the Lord and Carroll by singing God’s praise in song. They hope they’re a blessing to someone out there and are thankful to be back again.

MEMORIAL BAPTIST CHURCH PRAISE TEAM, 2 P.M. Festivalgoers can look forward to uplifting gospel music when the Memorial Baptist Church Praise Team takes the stage at the Newport Harvest Street Festival.

Known for their heartfelt performances, the group shares their faith and talent through music that inspires and uplifts. Their set will feature gospel favorites sure to have the crowd humming along while bringing a message of joy and blessing to all who listen.

The Memorial Baptist Church Praise Team is sure to be a highlight for those who enjoy spirit-filled music and community praise.

FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH PRAISE SINGERS, 2:55 p.m.

The First Baptist Church Praise Singers bring a powerful set of worship music to the Newport Harvest Street Festival.

This dedicated group of volunteers uses their gifts to glorify God and encourage others through song. Made up of students, educators, medical professionals, business leaders, and retirees, the team is multigenerational and comes from many walks of life—but all share the same goal of honoring God with their music.

Festivalgoers can look forward to an inspiring performance from the First Baptist Church Praise Singers, a group that blends talent, faith and community. www.new por tplaint alk .com

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FALL 2025 • HARVEST FESTIVAL • 7

Parrottsville Heritage Days Parrottsville Heritage Days, which is traditionally held the second weekend of October, will return this year after being canceled last year because of the flood caused

by Hurricane Helene.

According to Court Clerk Holly Norton, festivities are set for Friday, Oct. 10, through Sunday, Oct. 12. The festival is held at ParrottLaRue-Myers Park off Old Parrottsville Highway in the heart of Parrottsville.

Friday’s kickoff event consists of the popular chili cook-off. Pre-registration is not required.

Anyone who wishes to enter the chili cook-off should show up at the park pavilion at 5 p.m. with their crockpot of chili.

After the chili has been judged and prizes awarded, the chili will be sold. The proceeds are usually given to a charitable organization.

This year the funds will be given to Savannah Rathbone, an employee of Pizza Plus in Parrottsville, who has been battling cancer.

Some vendors may be set up by Friday evening, but others may be using the time to set up their booth for the weekend event.

Parrottsville Heritage Days brings hundreds of people to Parrottsville every fall.

Saturday and Sunday will include many activities. Vendors will offer various goods including handmade crafts and artwork. There will be a variety of foods available ranging from hot dogs and hamburgers to home cooked foods, baked goods and sweet treats.

Throughout Saturday and Sunday there will be entertainment. There will also be a car show featuring cars and trucks. There will also be a tractor show.

BEAUTY PAGEANTS The beauty pageants will be held on Saturday, Oct. 11.

Baby Doll Heritage Days Queen 2023 Jade Artica plays with some straw on stage while her parents work to get a photo of her at the Parrottsville Heritage Days.

Registration will be from 10:30 a.m. until 11:30 a.m. for the infants to four year-old-girls and boys with the pageant beginning at noon.

Registration for ages five and older will be

• SEE PARROTSVILLE ON PAGE 10

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• FROM PARROTSVILLE ON PAGE 8 from 1 p.m. until 1:45 p.m. with the pageant starting at 2 p.m.

Entries will be accepted the day of the pageant with a $10 late fee assessed. For more information call or text Angel Fowler at (423) 721-1855.

SUNDAY Sunday will kick off with a church service held at 10 a.m.

The festivities wrap up between 6 p.m. and 7 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday.

“We would like to invite everyone to come to Parrottsville and enjoy our annual Parrottsville Heritage Days Festival,” said Mayor Gayla Hommel.

“We are looking forward to having a well-attended, funfilled event,” she added. “There will definitely be something for everyone.”

For a vendor application, or to get additional information, call Parrottsville Town Hall at (423) 623-9380 or email pvlcourtclerk@ gmail.com.

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Molly Layman, in the foreground, and Lakelynn Fowler are shown with Baylor Fowler at a past Heritage Days Festival in Parrottsville. They enjoyed sharing festival food with Baylor.

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FALL 2025 • HARVEST FESTIVAL • 11

Grassy Fork/Hartford

Fall Festival

The 7th annual Grassy Fork/Hartford Fall Festival is set for Oct. 18-19 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. each day at Smoky Mountain River Rat Rafting, 3630 Hartford Road, Hartford. Admission and parking are free.

All proceeds from this event will benefit Grassy Fork Volunteer Fire Department.

The annual festival will include plenty of food, lots of vendors, activities for the children, hay rides and much more. There will also be live music throughout both days, so there is something for everyone to enjoy.

There will be a fall atmosphere with fall decor and hayrides, which will welcome the fall season.

Booth spots, while available, are $35 per day.

For more information on becoming a vendor contact Tonya Ochs at tonya.ochs@gmail.com or Angie Hall at angiehall0172@yahoo.com.

Gatlinburg Craftsmen’s

Fall Fair

OCT. 2-19

The Gatlinburg Craftsmen’s Fair October is the premier holiday shopping destination! We are your one-stop-shop for everyone on your list. Join us in our 50th year of celebrating arts and crafts in the Smokies.

Visit over 200 of the finest craftspeople from all over the United States.

Watch as they demonstrate their skill, answer questions and offer their unique art for sale. Artisans in nearly 400 fairs voted our Fair as the 5th All-Time Favorite Fair in the nation!

Filling the 150,000 square feet of downtown Gatlinburg Convention Center, the Gatlinburg Craftsmen’s Fair hosts artisans and craftsmen from all over the nation. Two hundred booths with unique and one-ofa-kind handmade products are beautifully displayed, as these skilled craftspeople demonstrate their talents. Each participant is subject to

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a rigorous jury process to ensure the uniqueness and quality of their respective products. All items represented are handmade and of utmost quality and without duplication. Look for exceptional pottery pieces, leather, copper art, local candy makers, and many more unique items.

Gatlinburg Craftsmen’s Fair October offers exceptional arts and crafts made by local craftsmen as well as talented artisans from around the country. Many of our artists make holiday-themed items and unique gifts for the upcoming season. Some of our seasonal items include holiday wreaths, ceramic trees, festive reindeer, a variety of Christmas ornaments, painted wall hangings, and holiday-themed treats.

Finish your holiday shopping early! Our craftsmen offer a wide array of one-of-a-kind gifts for everyone on your list.

There is something for everyone at the Fair. Be sure to stop by one or all of our daily music shows included with the price of admission. Check out the stage and enjoy contemporary country, bluegrass, and your favorite gospel tunes at noon and at 3 p.m. daily.

Admission is $10 for adults, children 17 and under are free with paid adults.

Concessions are available for sale through the Gatlinburg Convention Center. www.new por tplaint alk .com

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FALL 2025 • HARVEST FESTIVAL • 13

Bush’s history In the Smokies

CHESTNUT HILL - While most people know the name of Bush’s for its canned beans, it has long had a role in the history of the Smoky Mountains. The Bush’s company history started before the plant opened its doors.

A.J. Bush was born in Chestnut Hill, located in the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains. He established the A.J. Bush and Company General Store, which offered a place to sell local goods as well as goods from other locations.

Because of the need for jobs in the area, Bush decided to open a hosiery factory. As construction got underway, Stokely Brothers Tomato Cannery in Newport approached Bush with an offer. If Bush provided a building and workers, they would supply the equipment for him to open a cannery.

The partnership came to fruition, and in 1904 the cannery opened, providing the jobs the community needed. In four short years, Bush bought out the Stokely Brothers partnership interest and formed a business with his sons, Fred and Claude, creating Bush Brothers and Company.

The cannery did well, and they worked with distributors in many areas, including Knoxville as well as Asheville, North Carolina, and Greenville,

Newport Alderman

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The historic Bush home is across the road from the visitor center. It has a Christmas open house every year.

South Carolina. As World War I came around, the demand for canned goods increased, but as the war ended, so did the demand for canned goods.

The family business was incorporated and management was turned over to A.J. Bush’s sons, while the senior Bush focused on operating the general store. By 1930, the cannery produced and distributed a variety of canned products.

• SEE BUSH’S ON PAGE 15

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• FROM BUSH’S ON PAGE 14 During the Great Depression, the company sought out affordable products to offer the country. Among those goods were hominy, sauerkraut, and pork and beans. When the Tennessee Valley Authority flooded Douglas Lake, a lot of prime farmland was lost and the Oak Grove plant of Bush Brothers was also lost.

During 1944, the company bought a cannery in Blytheville, Arkansas, so it could increase production figures again. While various vegetables were being canned, it focused on beans and hominy, which were its top sellers.

In 1947, the board of directors chose to go with a new identity, Bush’s Best, and the double B logo that became known nationwide. It was the 1990s when the baked beans market transformed Bush’s into a champion in the canning industry.

The company’s headquarters are now in Knoxville, but the Chestnut Hill factory has grown. The general store is also in operation, and the Bush family home is open during the Christmas holidays for tours.

Thousands of people make their way to the visitor’s center in Chestnut Hill each year, located at the intersection of Highway 411 and Highway 92 in Chestnut Hill, where the general store and a diner welcome guests.

The Insurance Store Since 1924

The museum and the store are open Monday through Saturday from 9 a.m. - 4 p.m.

The cafe’s hours are seasonal, open from 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. January through March and 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. April through December. Closed Sundays.

To schedule a tour group for 30 or more people at the museum or cafe, call (865) 509-3077. For additional information, go to bushbeans.com/ en_US/about-us/visitor-center.

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FALL 2025 • HARVEST FESTIVAL • 15

Experience the magic of autumn at the 12th annual Wears Valley Fall Festival, taking place from October 17 - 19. The festival is next to Tennessee State Bank off Route 321 in Sevieville. With 16 acres dedicated to family fun, this event promises excitement for all ages. Explore over 240 talented crafters showcasing unique handmade goods, perfect for finding that special treasure or gift.

Get ready for a plethora of interactive activities designed to engage and entertain. From live performances to children’s events, families will discover countless opportunities to create lasting memories together.

Indulge in a wide variety of food options that celebrate the flavors of the season.

As you enjoy the festivities, take in the breathtaking beauty of fall in the Smokies, making this an unforgettable experience for everyone. Join us for a weekend filled with joy, creativity, and the spirit of community. Don’t miss out on this celebration of family, fun, and the vibrant fall season!

The Wears Valley Fall Fest is not your typical Fall Fest! While it features classic autumn elements like talented artisans, pumpkin patches, tractors, and mouth-watering southern cuisine, its primary goal is

to promote the mission of Keep Sevier Beautiful – reducing waste, preventing litter, and transforming public spaces into beautiful places!

Throughout the Fest, participants can discover ways to care for our environment both in Sevier County and beyond. From craft vendors creating items from repurposed materials to entertainers using unconventional instruments like spoons and washboards, you’ll learn how to reduce, reuse, and recycle to help make our world a better place.

This event serves as the largest fundraiser for the local affiliates of Keep America Beautiful and Keep Tennessee Beautiful, specifically Keep Sevier Beautiful. Not only can you learn about reducing your environmental footprint and protecting the beautiful mountains we call home at the Wears Valley Fall Fest, but by participating, you’re supporting community-based programs like recycling drop-off events, community gardens and plantings, educational programs teaching our youth to be good stewards of the community, and vital projects that assist our neighbors in need through initiatives like Project Restore.

Want to learn more about Keep Sevier Beautiful and our work? Visit www.keepsevierbeautiful.org.

The Unicoi County Apple Festival, coordinated by the Unicoi County Chamber of Commerce, is a premier two-day festival on October 3-4 that has spanned more than four decades of longevity in Erwin, Tennessee.

With an annual attendance of more than 110,000 attendees, the festival includes over 400 food and craft vendors, two entertainment stages, contests, activities and much more.

• SEE APPLE FEST ON PAGE 19 16 • HARVEST FESTIVAL • FALL 2025

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Fall Adventure In Tennessee TN. DEPT OF TOURISM Immersive cave walking tour, arts and fall color experiences and spooky season storytelling Rock City Fall Colors in Chattanooga. Courtesy Tennessee Tourism.

Vivid autumn leaves burst through the trees, new experiences await the fall bucket list, the aroma of apple and pumpkin treats waft through the air and echoes of ghost stories whisper with haunted happenings. Here’s what’s new and trending this fall in Tennessee.

ATTRACTIONS, EXHIBITS & EXPERIENCES McMinnville – Get ready for an adventure. The Discovery Walking Tour is an immersive experience surrounded by video, light and sound deep within the cave. Watch and listen to the story of how the cave was formed, came to life and the types of animals that call the cave home.

Morgan County – Hike MoCo kicks off the Fall Frenzy Hiking Series.

Explore and soak in the scenery along trails of Big South Fork, Frozen Head, Obed, Cumberland Trail and more.

Chattanooga – Rock City’s Fall Colors is an autumn splendor of pumpkins, haybale vignettes and seasonal decorations and live music with a picture perfect backdrop in the gardens.

Gatlinburg – Get creative and power your imagination in the Smokies.

Painting Around offers DIY painting, arts and craft experiences like canvas, rock and splatter painting and holiday decorations.

• SEE ADVENTURE ON PAGE 19

BACKWOODS Mitch Fine BARGAINS Cocke County Trustee 448 Eastern Plaza Newport, TN 37821 Hours: 10 am - 5:30 pm Monday - Friday, 10 am - 2 pm Saturday

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It's an honor and privilege for myself and my staff to serve the citizens of Cocke County.

Thank you for your continued support.

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FALL 2025 • HARVEST FESTIVAL • 17

Fall in love with TN’s

Great Outdoors this fall

Tennessee is a year-round outdoor playground, with countless freshair adventures available for visitors.

But the destination positively glows during the fall months, offering spectacular foliage, picturesque hiking trails and awe-inspiring waterfalls throughout the state.

Below, find out how to fall in love with Tennessee’s great outdoors this autumn.

GATLINBURG’S GOLDEN DAYS Best time to visit: Early to Mid-October (depending on altitude) Gatlinburg has been nominated as one of the “Best Places to View Fall Foliage” by USA Today, thanks to the kaleidoscope of warm red, gold and orange that blanket the city’s downtown and the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Leaf-peeping options abound, including the Gatlinburg Scenic Overlook, Ben Morton’s Overlook and more. Even better, many views are easily accessible from the comfort of your vehicle including such scenic drives as the Cades Cove Loop and Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail.

Gatlinburg Fall Tip: Wake up early for a Smoky Mountain Sunrise at Gatlinburg SkyLift Park. Lifted to the SkyDeck, the day starts with an

immaculate bird’s eye view of a grand illumination of the Great Smoky Mountains and downtown Gatlinburg.

GREAT SMOKY COLORS Best time to visit: Early to mid-October (depending on altitude) If finding seasonal scenes on foot is more your style, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park’s 800 miles of trails offer beautiful panoramas and vistas that show off fall’s colorful tapestry of changing leaves. Guests to the area can also chase some beautiful waterfalls, including such gems such as Rainbow Falls or Grotto Falls – the only waterfall you can walk behind in the Smokies, standing 25 feet tall. For those in search of a challenge, try the eight-mile scenic roundtrip trek to Indian Flats Falls.

• SEE LOVE ON PAGE 20

Mark H. McGaha Register Of Deeds It continues to be my honor to serve as your Register of Deeds. The office has made some improvements to make our processes more streamlined and secure.

I am thankful for the opportunity to continue to serve and work for the citizens of Cocke County.

I am proud to be a part of this community.

18 • HARVEST FESTIVAL • FALL 2025

Welcome To Newport NNewport e o t iss pproud oud off a llong ong Southern outhe n tradition ad tion off genuine genuine hosp al y... hospitality...

NNoo w wonder onder people ople aaree happy happy lliving ing in in Newport.

Ne o t.

City of Newport

300 East Main Street, Newport, TN 37821 | 423-623-7323 Hours: Mon-Fri 8:30am to 5:00pm www.new por tplaint alk .com

• FROM ADVENTURE ON PAGE 17

the site, a rare opportunity to see the mansion, grounds and cemetery by lantern light.

SPOOKY SEASON Rugby – Historic Rugby After Dark tours guide guests through original buildings and structures of the Victorian village founded in 1880s, telling history, legends and ghost stories.

Knoxville – Mabry-Hazen House’s A Victorian Séance, an immersive, guided reenactment of a 19th-century Spiritualist séance filled with “mysterious and startling wonders,” takes place on the evenings of Oct. 23-26.

Adams – Experience October at one of the most haunted locations in the country. Hear the folklore at Bell Witch Cave, which offers paranormal tours, cabin tours, daytime hayrides, nighttime haunted hayrides, food, a gift shop and more.

Memphis – Each October, visitors can take special tours and attend Soul of the Cemetery to hear stories of Elmwood Cemetery. BackBeat Tours shares more historically spooky tales with walking ghost tours through some of the most haunted places in Memphis.

• FROM APPLE FEST ON PAGE 16 Located in downtown Erwin, admission is free to the event with plenty of parking options.

POPULAR SEASONAL EVENTS Nashville (Sept. 13 - Oct. 30) – Cheekwood Harvest is a fall wonderland with 75,000 pumpkins and 4,000 chrysanthemums of different colors, shapes and sizes. Stroll through the Community Scarecrow Trail, iconic Pumpkin Village, live music in the beer garden and pick a pumpkin to take home.

Bell Buckle (Oct. 18 - 19) – Creativity flows at the Webb Art & Craft Show featuring handmade arts and crafts such as pottery, metal works, wood working, textiles, jewelry, old-fashioned soaps and lotions.

Nashville – Visitors can explore the haunted side of history with Ghost Tours: Tragedy and Mystery at The Hermitage with stories of unusual experiences of Andrew Jackson’s family and unexplained incidents on

Franklin (Oct. 25) – Enjoy autumn-inspired food and drink, children’s activities, live music, costume contests for pets and families, and arts and crafts along Main Street at PumpkinFest.

The Unicoi County Apple Festival has been named one of the Southeast Tourism Society’s Top 20 events and has won four Northeast Tennessee Tourism Association Pinnacle Award. With over 400 vendors offering unique crafts, delicious food, and familyfriendly activities, this year’s festival promises to be bigger and better than ever! Don’t miss the exciting new additions — a Tennis Tournament and an Apple Decorating Contest — guaranteed to make this year’s celebration unforgettable!

For more information go to unicoicountyapplefestival.com or visit the official Facebook page.

For a full list of events, check out tnvacation.com/calendar.

Thanks again for voting

L.A. Tax Service

Best Bookkeeping / Tax Service

Timeless Hospitality Meets Unsu

Voted Best Hotel/Motel

It’s a privilege to serve you.

I appreciate every customer.

846 W. Hwy 25/70 Newport, TN 37821

(423) 623-1999

www.new por tplaintalk .com

Call Us For

. Meetings . Parties . Events . Receptions 1015 Cosby Highway - Newport, TN 37821

423-623-8713

FALL 2025 • HARVEST FESTIVAL • 19

• FROM LOVE ON PAGE 18 Great Smoky Mountains National Park Fall Tip: Fall is one of the best times for wildlife in the Smokies, with chances to see black bears, elk, deer, wild turkey, foxes and barn owls.

AN APPALACHIAN AUTUMN Best time to visit: Early to MidOctober Nestled in the heart of the Appalachian Mountains and surrounded by Cherokee National Forest, Unicoi County offers autumn outdoor adventurers more than 50 miles of Appalachian Trail, eight waterfalls, Rocky Fork State Park (Tennessee’s newest state park), and dozens of walking and hiking trails. No matter where you are, you’re sure to see stunning fall foliage. A few favorite spots for leaf peeping include the aptly named Beauty Spot (crowned as a “best sunset hike” by Travel and Leisure) Pinnacle Mountain Fire Tower and Nolichucky Ridge Cliff.

Unicoi County Fall Tip: Viewing the vibrant colors of fall is accessible for even more travelers and residents in Unicoi County since one of the state’s colorblind viewfinders is located at the I-26 Westbound Scenic Overlook. From this viewfinder, you’ll see views of East Tennessee and Western North Carolina’s stunning hills and valleys.

REAL FALL BEAUTY AT REELFOOT LAKE Best time to visit: Late-October to early-November Located in the Northwest corner of Tennessee, Reelfoot Lake State Park is a beautiful place for fall outdoor activities. Fall color pontoon cruises take place on the weekends during October and November at Reelfoot Lake. See the changing leaves and water birds on a two-hour tour with an experienced naturalist. Tour guides will share their knowledge of the area’s history and ecology while helping you find the best photo ops for fall foliage.

Reelfoot Lake State Park Fall Tip: Large groups of eagles and ducks migrate to Reelfoot Lake for the winter, arriving just as autumnal colors reach their peak, adding to the natural wonder.

A TRACE OF TENNESSEE COLOR Best time to visit: Late-October to early-November Spanning more than 48,000 pristine acres in Middle Tennessee, Natchez Trace State Park has some of the best scenic locations in the state, with endless trails to explore and snap some photos.

For an on-the-water adventure, rent a kayak to take out on Pin Oak Lake to see a stunning display of autumnal colors reflecting off the water. Mountain biking is also a great way to experience this state park during fall, with more than 50 miles of multi-use fire trails that take riders through colorful forests and meadows.

It’s Tailgate Time in Tennessee Let Steven Chambers ShowYou A New BROILMASTER Premium Gas Grill

Natchez Trace State Park Fall Tip: Pin Oak Lake is also a favorite for anglers, with waters that are filled with largemouth bass, bluegill and catfish.

NASHVILLE’S ACCESSIBLE OUTDOORS Best time to visit: Mid- to lateOctober Discover the first ADA accessible colorblind viewfinder at Nashville’s Radnor Lake State Park. Outfitted with innovative EnChroma® lenses, the viewfinder has been designed to alleviate red-green colorblindness. Special lens technology enables those with colorblindness to see a broader range of clear, vibrant colors.

Additionally, the park’s Lake Trail is accessible to people with all-terrain wheelchairs.

• Infrared Burners of Blue Flame Burners • Patio Base Cart or In Ground Post • Can Be Purchased With Grill Cover & Front Shelf

LP Cylinders Filled At Newport Office

Nashville Fall Travel Tip: Urban leaf-peepers should pay a visit to the Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park, where the main lawn is lined with a variety of trees that come alive with color in October.

For more information on fall color in Tennessee, visit tnvacation. com

20 • HARVEST FESTIVAL • FALL 2025

www.new por tplaint alk .com

Come discover the place where the Bush’s® story started. Housed in the original A.J. Bush & Company general store in Chestnut Hill, Tennessee, The Bush’s® Visitor Center is filled with fun, family and, of course, all things beans.

VISIT BUSHBEANS.COM/VISITORCENTER TO PLAN YOUR VISIT. MUSEUM | CAFE | GENERAL STORE 3901 U.S. Hwy. 411, Dandridge, TN | 865.509.3077

www.new por tplaintalk .com

FALL 2025 • HARVEST FESTIVAL • 21

Halloween Treats SKELETON FINGERS: • Breadsticks or pretzel rods • Cheese or marinara sauce • Serve breadsticks or pretzel rods with dipping sauce and call them “skeleton fingers”

GRAVEYARD DIRT CUPS: • Chocolate pudding • Crushed Oreos or chocolate sandwich cookies

GUMMY WORMS • Layer pudding, crushed cookies, and gummy worms in cups

MONSTER EYEBALLS:

• Deviled eggs • Black olives or pimentos • Create “eyeballs” with deviled eggs and black olives or pimentos for pupils

WITCHES’ BREW PUNCH: • 1 cup lemon-lime soda • 1 cup pineapple juice • 1 cup ginger ale • Ice cubes • Dry ice for a spooky effect

Roscoe’s Treasures 255 E. Main Street, Newport, TN 37821 VotedBest Antiques/ Collectibles

22 • HARVEST FESTIVAL • FALL 2025

(in the Former Newport Dry Goods Building)

We have 80+ Vendors!

www.new por tplaint alk .com

Hommel Construction Voted

Best Asphalt/Paving Best Land Developer Guy Jr. Hommel Best Gravel/Rock Business

Best Concrete Business

Rock Quarry

Concrete Plant

Grading Project off Hwy 25E

Grading Project on Heritage Blvd.

Concrete Residential & Commercial Grade Work . Septic Installs . Asphalt Paving Form Pour . & Finish Concrete Grading Work at Firehouse Subs & Zackbys

Thanks Again Cocke County!

Folks like you make it worth while for folks like us.

. Rip Rap Stone . Drain Field Stone . Crushed Limestone . Rock Delivery 1788 Hwy 73 Newport, TN (423) 623-1633

Hwy 25/70 Newport, TN (423) 623-3365

1164 Raines Rd., Newport , TN (423) 623-5362

Pick-Up or Delivery . guyjrhommelexcavating.com . Free Estimates www.new por tplaintalk .com

FALL 2025 • HARVEST FESTIVAL • 23

Newport Medical Center

Newport Convalescent Center

423-625-2200

423-625-2195

435 Second Str et Nee po , TN 378 1

450 Colleg g treet Newport, TN 37821

At Newport Medical Center

We offer a full range of inpatient and outpatient services including: • Card oll gy • Diagn stic Imaging (X-rays, CT Scaans, MRI Scan ns, 3D Mammography, Ultrassound) • Em mergen ncy Care • Gasttro nteerology • Geneeral Surgery • Inpatient Re abilitation Ser ices (Physical Therap py, ccupattional Therap py, and Speech Therapy)

24 • HARVEST FESTIVAL • FALL 2025

• Neurology

• Non-Skilled Nursing Home • Obstetrics & Gynecology • Ophthalmology • Orthopedic Services • u mono ogy • Respiratory Care • Surgical Services www.new por tplaint alk .com