Great Smoky Mountains Hot Air Balloon Festival– Saturday, August 16

 📍 Townsend Visitor Center, 7930 E Lamar Alexander Pkwy, Townsend, TN
⏰ Time: 3:00–9:00 PM

Get ready for a magical evening in the mountains as the sky fills with color at the 7th Annual Great Smoky Mountains Hot Air Balloon Festival in beautiful Townsend, TN! This beloved family-friendly event is packed with fun, food, and unforgettable photo ops.

What to Expect:
🎈 Tethered Hot Air Balloon Rides (weather permitting)
🎨 Arts & Craft Vendors
🍔 Food Truck Court
🍺 Beer Tent & Signature Cocktails (VIP only)
🎡 Bounce Houses & Face Painting
🎶 Live Music
🌄 Sunset Views in the Smokies
💫 Glow time begins at dusk!

🎟️ General Admission:
$10 per person in advance online (children 10 & under are FREE)
🚗 Parking: $20 per vehicle (prepaid)

Want an elevated experience?
🎟️ VIP Tickets Available: (includes 1 tethered balloon ride, catered dinner, drinks, swag, and access to the VIP tent)

🐾 Leashed pets welcome, but balloons may be loud and intimidating for some animals.

🎉 A portion of proceeds supports Townsend Volunteer Fire Department & Townsend Elementary School.

👉 For ticket info, full event details, and VIP access, visit:  gsmballoonfest.com

Get ready, Sevier County families! The 4th Annual Back to School Bash is happening on Saturday, July 26th at the Pigeon Forge Boys & Girls Club, and it’s packed with FREE resources and fun to help your family gear up for the new school year.

📍 Location: 2456 Library Dr, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863
🕒 Time: 12:30–8:00 PM

This annual community event is made possible by incredible local churches, businesses, and service providers who care about setting our kids up for success. Whether you're a parent looking to knock out the school supply checklist or just want to give your kids a fun day, this event has something for everyone, and it’s all FREE!

Schedule of Events:

☀️ 12:30–4:00 PM – Kids Day Camp
A VBS-style camp with fun activities, games, crafts, music, and snacks for kids ages 5–18.

🎒 4:00–6:00 PM – Family Assistance Event
Families can access a wide variety of free services and supplies, including:

• FREE backpacks & school supplies
• FREE shoes
• FREE haircuts
• FREE eye exams
• FREE physicals
• And more- while supplies last!

🍕 6:00–8:00 PM – Pool Party & Free Food
Wrap up the day with a free swim and food for the whole family!

📝 Registration is required for kids to participate.
Visit www.backtoschoolpf.org to sign up in advance!