Cherokee's Memorial Day Trout Tournament

Amazing tales as told by the Cherokee storytellers themselves.

Imagine you’re gathered around a roaring bonfire, the occasional spark shooting high into the night sky, as a strong but gentle voice begins a story you’ve never heard. As the drama builds, you’re nearly breathless, your own heartbeat matching the occasional beat of the hand drum the storyteller uses. Drawing from a rich oral tradition dating back millennia, the Cherokee Bonfire series runs throughout the tourism season, and is an enchanting way to interact with the rich details of the Cherokee people and their stories. Get your room reserved in Cherokee, grab a blanket and someone close to you, and enjoy a cultural experience only Cherokee can offer.

The Bonfire stories crackles from 5:00–7:00 p.m. on the following dates at Oconaluftee Islands Park, on Tsali Blvd.:

Fridays & Saturdays, May 25–October 27, 2018.

Expanded schedule for the 4th of July celebrations from July 1–7, 2018.

There will be no Bonfire Series events in September.

Enjoy free, open-air musical performances by the river Friday and Saturday evenings in downtown Cherokee. Performances include rock ‘n’ roll, blues, jazz, gospel and country, and are staged near local eateries, shopping, and downtown water features with room to dance along.

Entertainment Schedule:
May 25: AM Superstars (Alternative)
May 26: Trippin' Hardie (‘60s to present)
June 1: The Will Hayes Band (Classic Country/Rock)
June 2: Al Lossiah Band
June 8: Robert Wolfe and The Renegades
June 9: AM Superstars (Alternative)
June 15: Stereospread (Indie Tronica)
June 16: A36 Band (Classic Rock/New Age)
June 22: AM Superstars (Alternative)
June 23: The Will Hayes Band (Classic Country/Rock)
June 29: Robert Wolfe and The Renegades
June 30: A36 Band (Classic Rock/New Age)
July 6: AM Superstars (Alternative)
July 7: The Will Hayes Band (Classic Country/Rock)
July 13: Robert Wolfe and The Renegades
July 14: A36 Band (Classic Rock/New Age)
July 20: Stereospread (Indie Tronica)
July 21: AM Superstars (Alternative)
July 27: The Will Hayes Band (Classic Country/Rock)
July 28: Professor Whizzpop (Family Magic Show)
August 3: Robert Wolfe and The Renegades
August 4: A36 Band (Classic Rock/New Age)
August 10: The Will Hayes Band (Classic Country/Rock)
August 11: AM Superstars (Alternative)
August 17: Robert Wolfe and The Renegades
August 18: Second Time Around Band (‘60s–‘80s)
August 24: Stereospread (Indie Tronica)
August 25: A36 Band (Classic Rock/New Age)
August 31: Robert Wolfe and The Renegades
September 1: Professor Whizzpop (Family Magic Show)

Amazing tales as told by the Cherokee storytellers themselves.

Imagine you’re gathered around a roaring bonfire, the occasional spark shooting high into the night sky, as a strong but gentle voice begins a story you’ve never heard. As the drama builds, you’re nearly breathless, your own heartbeat matching the occasional beat of the hand drum the storyteller uses. Drawing from a rich oral tradition dating back millennia, the Cherokee Bonfire series runs throughout the tourism season, and is an enchanting way to interact with the rich details of the Cherokee people and their stories. Get your room reserved in Cherokee, grab a blanket and someone close to you, and enjoy a cultural experience only Cherokee can offer.

The Bonfire stories crackles from 5:00–7:00 p.m. on the following dates at Oconaluftee Islands Park, on Tsali Blvd.:

Fridays & Saturdays, May 25–October 27, 2018.

Expanded schedule for the 4th of July celebrations from July 1–7, 2018.

There will be no Bonfire Series events in September.

Enjoy free, open-air musical performances by the river Friday and Saturday evenings in downtown Cherokee. Performances include rock ‘n’ roll, blues, jazz, gospel and country, and are staged near local eateries, shopping, and downtown water features with room to dance along.

Entertainment Schedule:
May 25: AM Superstars (Alternative)
May 26: Trippin' Hardie (‘60s to present)
June 1: The Will Hayes Band (Classic Country/Rock)
June 2: Al Lossiah Band
June 8: Robert Wolfe and The Renegades
June 9: AM Superstars (Alternative)
June 15: Stereospread (Indie Tronica)
June 16: A36 Band (Classic Rock/New Age)
June 22: AM Superstars (Alternative)
June 23: The Will Hayes Band (Classic Country/Rock)
June 29: Robert Wolfe and The Renegades
June 30: A36 Band (Classic Rock/New Age)
July 6: AM Superstars (Alternative)
July 7: The Will Hayes Band (Classic Country/Rock)
July 13: Robert Wolfe and The Renegades
July 14: A36 Band (Classic Rock/New Age)
July 20: Stereospread (Indie Tronica)
July 21: AM Superstars (Alternative)
July 27: The Will Hayes Band (Classic Country/Rock)
July 28: Professor Whizzpop (Family Magic Show)
August 3: Robert Wolfe and The Renegades
August 4: A36 Band (Classic Rock/New Age)
August 10: The Will Hayes Band (Classic Country/Rock)
August 11: AM Superstars (Alternative)
August 17: Robert Wolfe and The Renegades
August 18: Second Time Around Band (‘60s–‘80s)
August 24: Stereospread (Indie Tronica)
August 25: A36 Band (Classic Rock/New Age)
August 31: Robert Wolfe and The Renegades
September 1: Professor Whizzpop (Family Magic Show)

Amazing tales as told by the Cherokee storytellers themselves.

Imagine you’re gathered around a roaring bonfire, the occasional spark shooting high into the night sky, as a strong but gentle voice begins a story you’ve never heard. As the drama builds, you’re nearly breathless, your own heartbeat matching the occasional beat of the hand drum the storyteller uses. Drawing from a rich oral tradition dating back millennia, the Cherokee Bonfire series runs throughout the tourism season, and is an enchanting way to interact with the rich details of the Cherokee people and their stories. Get your room reserved in Cherokee, grab a blanket and someone close to you, and enjoy a cultural experience only Cherokee can offer.

The Bonfire stories crackles from 5:00–7:00 p.m. on the following dates at Oconaluftee Islands Park, on Tsali Blvd.:

Fridays & Saturdays, May 25–October 27, 2018.

Expanded schedule for the 4th of July celebrations from July 1–7, 2018.

There will be no Bonfire Series events in September.

Enjoy free, open-air musical performances by the river Friday and Saturday evenings in downtown Cherokee. Performances include rock ‘n’ roll, blues, jazz, gospel and country, and are staged near local eateries, shopping, and downtown water features with room to dance along.

Entertainment Schedule:
May 25: AM Superstars (Alternative)
May 26: Trippin' Hardie (‘60s to present)
June 1: The Will Hayes Band (Classic Country/Rock)
June 2: Al Lossiah Band
June 8: Robert Wolfe and The Renegades
June 9: AM Superstars (Alternative)
June 15: Stereospread (Indie Tronica)
June 16: A36 Band (Classic Rock/New Age)
June 22: AM Superstars (Alternative)
June 23: The Will Hayes Band (Classic Country/Rock)
June 29: Robert Wolfe and The Renegades
June 30: A36 Band (Classic Rock/New Age)
July 6: AM Superstars (Alternative)
July 7: The Will Hayes Band (Classic Country/Rock)
July 13: Robert Wolfe and The Renegades
July 14: A36 Band (Classic Rock/New Age)
July 20: Stereospread (Indie Tronica)
July 21: AM Superstars (Alternative)
July 27: The Will Hayes Band (Classic Country/Rock)
July 28: Professor Whizzpop (Family Magic Show)
August 3: Robert Wolfe and The Renegades
August 4: A36 Band (Classic Rock/New Age)
August 10: The Will Hayes Band (Classic Country/Rock)
August 11: AM Superstars (Alternative)
August 17: Robert Wolfe and The Renegades
August 18: Second Time Around Band (‘60s–‘80s)
August 24: Stereospread (Indie Tronica)
August 25: A36 Band (Classic Rock/New Age)
August 31: Robert Wolfe and The Renegades
September 1: Professor Whizzpop (Family Magic Show)

Where our family traditions become your family heirlooms: the Open Air Indian Art Market showcases traditional, handmade Cherokee arts and crafts. Come to shop for authentic and unique gifts but stay for the music, food, storytelling, and craft demonstrations. This outdoor event is held in the Cultural District of Cherokee at Qualla Arts and Crafts. Music provided by the Sound of Music. A traditional Cherokee meal will be available for purchase for $10 per person by the North American Indian Women’s Association (NAIWA). General admission is free to the public.

Amazing tales as told by the Cherokee storytellers themselves.

Imagine you’re gathered around a roaring bonfire, the occasional spark shooting high into the night sky, as a strong but gentle voice begins a story you’ve never heard. As the drama builds, you’re nearly breathless, your own heartbeat matching the occasional beat of the hand drum the storyteller uses. Drawing from a rich oral tradition dating back millennia, the Cherokee Bonfire series runs throughout the tourism season, and is an enchanting way to interact with the rich details of the Cherokee people and their stories. Get your room reserved in Cherokee, grab a blanket and someone close to you, and enjoy a cultural experience only Cherokee can offer.

The Bonfire stories crackles from 5:00–7:00 p.m. on the following dates at Oconaluftee Islands Park, on Tsali Blvd.:

Fridays & Saturdays, May 25–October 27, 2018.

Expanded schedule for the 4th of July celebrations from July 1–7, 2018.

There will be no Bonfire Series events in September.

Kananegsi Fashion Show features traditional Cherokee fashion created by members of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians. Guests can view the incredible fashions; meet with designers, tailors, and seamstresses; and purchase items for their own closets. Admission is free to the public.

Entertainment/Event Schedule:

5:00p.m. - Fashion Show

5:30p.m.—8:00p.m. - Networking and Marketplace

Location is TBD.

Enjoy free, open-air musical performances by the river Friday and Saturday evenings in downtown Cherokee. Performances include rock ‘n’ roll, blues, jazz, gospel and country, and are staged near local eateries, shopping, and downtown water features with room to dance along.

Entertainment Schedule:
May 25: AM Superstars (Alternative)
May 26: Trippin' Hardie (‘60s to present)
June 1: The Will Hayes Band (Classic Country/Rock)
June 2: Al Lossiah Band
June 8: Robert Wolfe and The Renegades
June 9: AM Superstars (Alternative)
June 15: Stereospread (Indie Tronica)
June 16: A36 Band (Classic Rock/New Age)
June 22: AM Superstars (Alternative)
June 23: The Will Hayes Band (Classic Country/Rock)
June 29: Robert Wolfe and The Renegades
June 30: A36 Band (Classic Rock/New Age)
July 6: AM Superstars (Alternative)
July 7: The Will Hayes Band (Classic Country/Rock)
July 13: Robert Wolfe and The Renegades
July 14: A36 Band (Classic Rock/New Age)
July 20: Stereospread (Indie Tronica)
July 21: AM Superstars (Alternative)
July 27: The Will Hayes Band (Classic Country/Rock)
July 28: Professor Whizzpop (Family Magic Show)
August 3: Robert Wolfe and The Renegades
August 4: A36 Band (Classic Rock/New Age)
August 10: The Will Hayes Band (Classic Country/Rock)
August 11: AM Superstars (Alternative)
August 17: Robert Wolfe and The Renegades
August 18: Second Time Around Band (‘60s–‘80s)
August 24: Stereospread (Indie Tronica)
August 25: A36 Band (Classic Rock/New Age)
August 31: Robert Wolfe and The Renegades
September 1: Professor Whizzpop (Family Magic Show)

Amazing tales as told by the Cherokee storytellers themselves.

Imagine you’re gathered around a roaring bonfire, the occasional spark shooting high into the night sky, as a strong but gentle voice begins a story you’ve never heard. As the drama builds, you’re nearly breathless, your own heartbeat matching the occasional beat of the hand drum the storyteller uses. Drawing from a rich oral tradition dating back millennia, the Cherokee Bonfire series runs throughout the tourism season, and is an enchanting way to interact with the rich details of the Cherokee people and their stories. Get your room reserved in Cherokee, grab a blanket and someone close to you, and enjoy a cultural experience only Cherokee can offer.

The Bonfire stories crackles from 5:00–7:00 p.m. on the following dates at Oconaluftee Islands Park, on Tsali Blvd.:

Fridays & Saturdays, May 25–October 27, 2018.

Expanded schedule for the 4th of July celebrations from July 1–7, 2018.

There will be no Bonfire Series events in September.

Enjoy free, open-air musical performances by the river Friday and Saturday evenings in downtown Cherokee. Performances include rock ‘n’ roll, blues, jazz, gospel and country, and are staged near local eateries, shopping, and downtown water features with room to dance along.

Entertainment Schedule:
May 25: AM Superstars (Alternative)
May 26: Trippin' Hardie (‘60s to present)
June 1: The Will Hayes Band (Classic Country/Rock)
June 2: Al Lossiah Band
June 8: Robert Wolfe and The Renegades
June 9: AM Superstars (Alternative)
June 15: Stereospread (Indie Tronica)
June 16: A36 Band (Classic Rock/New Age)
June 22: AM Superstars (Alternative)
June 23: The Will Hayes Band (Classic Country/Rock)
June 29: Robert Wolfe and The Renegades
June 30: A36 Band (Classic Rock/New Age)
July 6: AM Superstars (Alternative)
July 7: The Will Hayes Band (Classic Country/Rock)
July 13: Robert Wolfe and The Renegades
July 14: A36 Band (Classic Rock/New Age)
July 20: Stereospread (Indie Tronica)
July 21: AM Superstars (Alternative)
July 27: The Will Hayes Band (Classic Country/Rock)
July 28: Professor Whizzpop (Family Magic Show)
August 3: Robert Wolfe and The Renegades
August 4: A36 Band (Classic Rock/New Age)
August 10: The Will Hayes Band (Classic Country/Rock)
August 11: AM Superstars (Alternative)
August 17: Robert Wolfe and The Renegades
August 18: Second Time Around Band (‘60s–‘80s)
August 24: Stereospread (Indie Tronica)
August 25: A36 Band (Classic Rock/New Age)
August 31: Robert Wolfe and The Renegades
September 1: Professor Whizzpop (Family Magic Show)

It’s not too late to take home the summer’s biggest trout. And biggest purse. Your $11 entry fee lets you compete for your share of $20,000 in the pristine, freestone streams of Cherokee (excluding the 2.2 miles of catch-and-release waters). For those unfamiliar with tagged tourneys, you’ll discover the waters stocked with fish tagged with different colors. Tagged fish will be specially stocked for this event, and when you catch one, you redeem it for cash prizes ranging from $25 to $5,000 at the Natural Resources Enforcement Office located at 5175 Sequoyah Trail of Hwy 441. Register to anywhere fishing licenses are sold. Fishing will start a one hour before sunrise and end one hour after sunset each day. Open to all ages and for all legal fishing methods. Prize redemption will run from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. each day. 

Enjoy free, open-air musical performances by the river Friday and Saturday evenings in downtown Cherokee. Performances include rock ‘n’ roll, blues, jazz, gospel and country, and are staged near local eateries, shopping, and downtown water features with room to dance along.

Entertainment Schedule:
May 25: AM Superstars (Alternative)
May 26: Trippin' Hardie (‘60s to present)
June 1: The Will Hayes Band (Classic Country/Rock)
June 2: Al Lossiah Band
June 8: Robert Wolfe and The Renegades
June 9: AM Superstars (Alternative)
June 15: Stereospread (Indie Tronica)
June 16: A36 Band (Classic Rock/New Age)
June 22: AM Superstars (Alternative)
June 23: The Will Hayes Band (Classic Country/Rock)
June 29: Robert Wolfe and The Renegades
June 30: A36 Band (Classic Rock/New Age)
July 6: AM Superstars (Alternative)
July 7: The Will Hayes Band (Classic Country/Rock)
July 13: Robert Wolfe and The Renegades
July 14: A36 Band (Classic Rock/New Age)
July 20: Stereospread (Indie Tronica)
July 21: AM Superstars (Alternative)
July 27: The Will Hayes Band (Classic Country/Rock)
July 28: Professor Whizzpop (Family Magic Show)
August 3: Robert Wolfe and The Renegades
August 4: A36 Band (Classic Rock/New Age)
August 10: The Will Hayes Band (Classic Country/Rock)
August 11: AM Superstars (Alternative)
August 17: Robert Wolfe and The Renegades
August 18: Second Time Around Band (‘60s–‘80s)
August 24: Stereospread (Indie Tronica)
August 25: A36 Band (Classic Rock/New Age)
August 31: Robert Wolfe and The Renegades
September 1: Professor Whizzpop (Family Magic Show)

This three-day motorcycle rally will have you opening up your throttle or just gently cruising over to ride the Great Smoky Mountains of North Carolina and the Blue Ridge Parkway! In addition to the ride and beautiful scenery, we’ll have music, bike builders, games with prizes, a bike show, plenty of vendors to check out and much, much more. All bikes and ages welcome!

Admission is $15 on Friday, $15 on Saturday, and $10 on Sunday.
Weekend passes are $30 (covers all three days).

For more event details, visit blueridgerun.com and watch this video from the area's local ABC affiliate, WLOS.

This three-day motorcycle rally will have you opening up your throttle or just gently cruising over to ride the Great Smoky Mountains of North Carolina and the Blue Ridge Parkway! In addition to the ride and beautiful scenery, we’ll have music, bike builders, games with prizes, a bike show, plenty of vendors to check out and much, much more. All bikes and ages welcome!

Admission is $15 on Friday, $15 on Saturday, and $10 on Sunday.
Weekend passes are $30 (covers all three days).

For more event details, visit blueridgerun.com and watch this video from the area's local ABC affiliate, WLOS.

One Saturday of every month, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., the Museum of the Cherokee Indian offers a family-friendly fun day of free cultural activities including traditional dancing, storytelling, cultural arts demonstrations, genealogy workshops, hands-on craft workshops and more. Traditional food is available on-site, weather permitting. The Cherokee Friends offer workshops on traditional dancing and cultural arts demonstrations including wampum belt making, moccasin making, stickball stick making, wood carving, fire making, and more. Hands-on workshops are taught by members of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians and often include making a clay medallion or a traditional Cherokee pot stamped with wooden paddles carved with designs. Different members of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians share stories and flute music. Every month includes activities related to that month’s theme. 

Activities are sponsored by the Museum, the North Carolina Arts Council, and the Cherokee Preservation Foundation. Regular prices apply to food and to admission to Museum exhibits.

Monthly Themes
May 12 - Anisgvti (Planting Month) 
June 9 - Cherokee Voices Festival
July 14 - Guyegwoni (Corn in Tassel Month)
August 11 - Galoni (End of Fruit Month)
September 8 - Dulisdini (Nut Month)
October 13 -  Duninvdi (Harvest Month)
November 10 - Nvdadegwa (Hunter Month/Big Moon)
December 8 - Vsgiyi (Snow Month)

This three-day motorcycle rally will have you opening up your throttle or just gently cruising over to ride the Great Smoky Mountains of North Carolina and the Blue Ridge Parkway! In addition to the ride and beautiful scenery, we’ll have music, bike builders, games with prizes, a bike show, plenty of vendors to check out and much, much more. All bikes and ages welcome!

Admission is $15 on Friday, $15 on Saturday, and $10 on Sunday.
Weekend passes are $30 (covers all three days).

For more event details, visit blueridgerun.com and watch this video from the area's local ABC affiliate, WLOS.

Honor, remember, and celebrate the men and women who have served in the United States armed forces during this three-day event, which takes place at the Happy Holiday RV Village and Campground. Admission is $10 on Thursday, $25 each day for Saturday and Sunday, or purchase a three-day event pass for $40.

Thursday

6:30 p.m.    Meet & Greet

7:00 p.m.    Music/Entertainment

10:00 p.m.   Day Ends
 

Friday

9:00 a.m.    Craft and Food Vendors Open & Storytelling

10:00 a.m.  Bike Show and Bike Rally

3:00 p.m.    Awards Ceremony

4:00 p.m.    Vegas Style Entertainment

10:00 p.m.  Day Ends
 

Saturday

9:00 a.m.    Car show

3:00 p.m.    Awards ceremony

4:00 p.m.    Vegas Style Entertainment

10:00 p.m.   Closing Ceremony

Honor, remember, and celebrate the men and women who have served in the United States armed forces during this three-day event, which takes place at the Happy Holiday RV Village and Campground. Admission is $10 on Thursday, $25 each day for Saturday and Sunday, or purchase a three-day event pass for $40.

Thursday

6:30 p.m.    Meet & Greet

7:00 p.m.    Music/Entertainment

10:00 p.m.   Day Ends
 

Friday

9:00 a.m.    Craft and Food Vendors Open & Storytelling

10:00 a.m.  Bike Show and Bike Rally

3:00 p.m.    Awards Ceremony

4:00 p.m.    Vegas Style Entertainment

10:00 p.m.  Day Ends
 

Saturday

9:00 a.m.    Car show

3:00 p.m.    Awards ceremony

4:00 p.m.    Vegas Style Entertainment

10:00 p.m.   Closing Ceremony

Honor, remember, and celebrate the men and women who have served in the United States armed forces during this three-day event, which takes place at the Happy Holiday RV Village and Campground. Admission is $10 on Thursday, $25 each day for Saturday and Sunday, or purchase a three-day event pass for $40.

Thursday

6:30 p.m.    Meet & Greet

7:00 p.m.    Music/Entertainment

10:00 p.m.   Day Ends
 

Friday

9:00 a.m.    Craft and Food Vendors Open & Storytelling

10:00 a.m.  Bike Show and Bike Rally

3:00 p.m.    Awards Ceremony

4:00 p.m.    Vegas Style Entertainment

10:00 p.m.  Day Ends
 

Saturday

9:00 a.m.    Car show

3:00 p.m.    Awards ceremony

4:00 p.m.    Vegas Style Entertainment

10:00 p.m.   Closing Ceremony

It’s over a century old. It’s a cornucopia of sights and sounds—a treat for all your senses. It’s a carnival and an agriculture show. It’s an art show and a game show. There’s food, music, and rides. It’s pure, unfiltered fair entertainment with that unmistakable Cherokee touch: a Ferris wheel, fireworks, and stickball.

Stickball has long been known as the “Little Brother of War,” and you’ll find thrilling demonstrations of it mixed into all the traditional fair fun and food. In fact, you’re going to find ample amounts of all sorts of authentic Cherokee culture, including archery and blowgun demonstrations, local art, dance, music, and more. 

General admission is $10 per person at the gate. Children ages 6 and under will be admitted for free. Enrolled members of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians and other federally recognized tribes will receive free admission.

Celebrate a different emphasis each day you attend.

Tuesday: Parade Day 

Wednesday: Children’s Day 

Thursday: Elder’s Day 

Friday: Veterans & Visitor Appreciation Day 

Amazing tales as told by the Cherokee storytellers themselves.

Imagine you’re gathered around a roaring bonfire, the occasional spark shooting high into the night sky, as a strong but gentle voice begins a story you’ve never heard. As the drama builds, you’re nearly breathless, your own heartbeat matching the occasional beat of the hand drum the storyteller uses. Drawing from a rich oral tradition dating back millennia, the Cherokee Bonfire series runs throughout the tourism season, and is an enchanting way to interact with the rich details of the Cherokee people and their stories. Get your room reserved in Cherokee, grab a blanket and someone close to you, and enjoy a cultural experience only Cherokee can offer.

The Bonfire stories crackles from 5:00–7:00 p.m. on the following dates at Oconaluftee Islands Park, on Tsali Blvd.:

Fridays & Saturdays, May 25–October 27, 2018.

Expanded schedule for the 4th of July celebrations from July 1–7, 2018.

There will be no Bonfire Series events in September.

Amazing tales as told by the Cherokee storytellers themselves.

Imagine you’re gathered around a roaring bonfire, the occasional spark shooting high into the night sky, as a strong but gentle voice begins a story you’ve never heard. As the drama builds, you’re nearly breathless, your own heartbeat matching the occasional beat of the hand drum the storyteller uses. Drawing from a rich oral tradition dating back millennia, the Cherokee Bonfire series runs throughout the tourism season, and is an enchanting way to interact with the rich details of the Cherokee people and their stories. Get your room reserved in Cherokee, grab a blanket and someone close to you, and enjoy a cultural experience only Cherokee can offer.

The Bonfire stories crackles from 5:00–7:00 p.m. on the following dates at Oconaluftee Islands Park, on Tsali Blvd.:

Fridays & Saturdays, May 25–October 27, 2018.

Expanded schedule for the 4th of July celebrations from July 1–7, 2018.

There will be no Bonfire Series events in September.

Amazing tales as told by the Cherokee storytellers themselves.

Imagine you’re gathered around a roaring bonfire, the occasional spark shooting high into the night sky, as a strong but gentle voice begins a story you’ve never heard. As the drama builds, you’re nearly breathless, your own heartbeat matching the occasional beat of the hand drum the storyteller uses. Drawing from a rich oral tradition dating back millennia, the Cherokee Bonfire series runs throughout the tourism season, and is an enchanting way to interact with the rich details of the Cherokee people and their stories. Get your room reserved in Cherokee, grab a blanket and someone close to you, and enjoy a cultural experience only Cherokee can offer.

The Bonfire stories crackles from 5:00–7:00 p.m. on the following dates at Oconaluftee Islands Park, on Tsali Blvd.:

Fridays & Saturdays, May 25–October 27, 2018.

Expanded schedule for the 4th of July celebrations from July 1–7, 2018.

There will be no Bonfire Series events in September.

One Saturday of every month, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., the Museum of the Cherokee Indian offers a family-friendly fun day of free cultural activities including traditional dancing, storytelling, cultural arts demonstrations, genealogy workshops, hands-on craft workshops and more. Traditional food is available on-site, weather permitting. The Cherokee Friends offer workshops on traditional dancing and cultural arts demonstrations including wampum belt making, moccasin making, stickball stick making, wood carving, fire making, and more. Hands-on workshops are taught by members of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians and often include making a clay medallion or a traditional Cherokee pot stamped with wooden paddles carved with designs. Different members of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians share stories and flute music. Every month includes activities related to that month’s theme. 

Activities are sponsored by the Museum, the North Carolina Arts Council, and the Cherokee Preservation Foundation. Regular prices apply to food and to admission to Museum exhibits.

Monthly Themes
May 12 - Anisgvti (Planting Month) 
June 9 - Cherokee Voices Festival
July 14 - Guyegwoni (Corn in Tassel Month)
August 11 - Galoni (End of Fruit Month)
September 8 - Dulisdini (Nut Month)
October 13 -  Duninvdi (Harvest Month)
November 10 - Nvdadegwa (Hunter Month/Big Moon)
December 8 - Vsgiyi (Snow Month)

Amazing tales as told by the Cherokee storytellers themselves.

Imagine you’re gathered around a roaring bonfire, the occasional spark shooting high into the night sky, as a strong but gentle voice begins a story you’ve never heard. As the drama builds, you’re nearly breathless, your own heartbeat matching the occasional beat of the hand drum the storyteller uses. Drawing from a rich oral tradition dating back millennia, the Cherokee Bonfire series runs throughout the tourism season, and is an enchanting way to interact with the rich details of the Cherokee people and their stories. Get your room reserved in Cherokee, grab a blanket and someone close to you, and enjoy a cultural experience only Cherokee can offer.

The Bonfire stories crackles from 5:00–7:00 p.m. on the following dates at Oconaluftee Islands Park, on Tsali Blvd.:

Fridays & Saturdays, May 25–October 27, 2018.

Expanded schedule for the 4th of July celebrations from July 1–7, 2018.

There will be no Bonfire Series events in September.

Enjoy a vintage car show at the Cherokee Indian Fair Grounds featuring hundreds of restored and enhanced vintage cars. Chat with their owners to get each car’s unique history, enjoy pristine paint jobs, and have your fill of polished chrome. This show will have food, memorabilia, and automobile parts vendors and will be hosted with music by a professional DJ for lots of old-fashioned fun. Admission is $5 per person and free for children 10 and younger. Tickets can be purchased at the event. 

Amazing tales as told by the Cherokee storytellers themselves.

Imagine you’re gathered around a roaring bonfire, the occasional spark shooting high into the night sky, as a strong but gentle voice begins a story you’ve never heard. As the drama builds, you’re nearly breathless, your own heartbeat matching the occasional beat of the hand drum the storyteller uses. Drawing from a rich oral tradition dating back millennia, the Cherokee Bonfire series runs throughout the tourism season, and is an enchanting way to interact with the rich details of the Cherokee people and their stories. Get your room reserved in Cherokee, grab a blanket and someone close to you, and enjoy a cultural experience only Cherokee can offer.

The Bonfire stories crackles from 5:00–7:00 p.m. on the following dates at Oconaluftee Islands Park, on Tsali Blvd.:

Fridays & Saturdays, May 25–October 27, 2018.

Expanded schedule for the 4th of July celebrations from July 1–7, 2018.

There will be no Bonfire Series events in September.

The Cherokee Harvest Half Marathon is back! Join us for the return of this great fall race in the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains. This event is famous for its generous swag package, picturesque courses, local culture, and amazing post-race metals.

Half Marathon Entry Fees:
Now–April 30 - $45
May 1–September 30 - $50
October 1 - $55
Online Registration

5K Entry Fees:
Now–April 30 - $25
May 1–September 30 - $30
October 1 - $35
Online Registration

Entertainment and Event Schedule
Friday, October 19
4:00 p.m.–6:00 p.m.  Packet pick up and late registration at Acquoni Events Center

Saturday, October 1 
6:00 a.m.–7:45 a.m.  Packet pickup and late registration at Acquoni Events Center
7:45 a.m.  Assemble for Start of Half Marathon 
8:00 a.m.  Half Marathon Starts 
8:05 a.m.  Assemble for Start of 5K
8:15 a.m.  5K Starts

Enjoy a vintage car show at the Cherokee Indian Fair Grounds featuring hundreds of restored and enhanced vintage cars. Chat with their owners to get each car’s unique history, enjoy pristine paint jobs, and have your fill of polished chrome. This show will have food, memorabilia, and automobile parts vendors and will be hosted with music by a professional DJ for lots of old-fashioned fun. Admission is $5 per person and free for children 10 and younger. Tickets can be purchased at the event. 

Amazing tales as told by the Cherokee storytellers themselves.

Imagine you’re gathered around a roaring bonfire, the occasional spark shooting high into the night sky, as a strong but gentle voice begins a story you’ve never heard. As the drama builds, you’re nearly breathless, your own heartbeat matching the occasional beat of the hand drum the storyteller uses. Drawing from a rich oral tradition dating back millennia, the Cherokee Bonfire series runs throughout the tourism season, and is an enchanting way to interact with the rich details of the Cherokee people and their stories. Get your room reserved in Cherokee, grab a blanket and someone close to you, and enjoy a cultural experience only Cherokee can offer.

The Bonfire stories crackles from 5:00–7:00 p.m. on the following dates at Oconaluftee Islands Park, on Tsali Blvd.:

Fridays & Saturdays, May 25–October 27, 2018.

Expanded schedule for the 4th of July celebrations from July 1–7, 2018.

There will be no Bonfire Series events in September.

Amazing tales as told by the Cherokee storytellers themselves.

Imagine you’re gathered around a roaring bonfire, the occasional spark shooting high into the night sky, as a strong but gentle voice begins a story you’ve never heard. As the drama builds, you’re nearly breathless, your own heartbeat matching the occasional beat of the hand drum the storyteller uses. Drawing from a rich oral tradition dating back millennia, the Cherokee Bonfire series runs throughout the tourism season, and is an enchanting way to interact with the rich details of the Cherokee people and their stories. Get your room reserved in Cherokee, grab a blanket and someone close to you, and enjoy a cultural experience only Cherokee can offer.

The Bonfire stories crackles from 5:00–7:00 p.m. on the following dates at Oconaluftee Islands Park, on Tsali Blvd.:

Fridays & Saturdays, May 25–October 27, 2018.

Expanded schedule for the 4th of July celebrations from July 1–7, 2018.

There will be no Bonfire Series events in September.

Amazing tales as told by the Cherokee storytellers themselves.

Imagine you’re gathered around a roaring bonfire, the occasional spark shooting high into the night sky, as a strong but gentle voice begins a story you’ve never heard. As the drama builds, you’re nearly breathless, your own heartbeat matching the occasional beat of the hand drum the storyteller uses. Drawing from a rich oral tradition dating back millennia, the Cherokee Bonfire series runs throughout the tourism season, and is an enchanting way to interact with the rich details of the Cherokee people and their stories. Get your room reserved in Cherokee, grab a blanket and someone close to you, and enjoy a cultural experience only Cherokee can offer.

The Bonfire stories crackles from 5:00–7:00 p.m. on the following dates at Oconaluftee Islands Park, on Tsali Blvd.:

Fridays & Saturdays, May 25–October 27, 2018.

Expanded schedule for the 4th of July celebrations from July 1–7, 2018.

There will be no Bonfire Series events in September.

Kananegsi Basket Festival celebrates the basket makers of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians (EBCI). Visitors can meet with artists, learn the details of basket making during a panel discussion, and purchase unique pieces to take home. The festival will also feature EBCI carvers and weapon makers. Admission is free to the public.

Entertainment/Event Schedule:

10:00a.m.—4:00p.m. - Marketplace

12:00p.m. - Storytelling

1:00p.m. - Weaver Panel Discussion

Are you and your best fly-fishing buddy ready to rumble with the top anglers around? Then get your $250 entry fee together for this two-person team competition held exclusively in the catch-and-release section of Cherokee’s “trophy waters” known simply as Raven Fork. This tournament offers a payout* totaling $10,000 for the top teams. To enter this tournament you must first acquire a Cherokee fishing permit (a list of permit-selling locations may be found at FishCherokee.com), then register for the event at River's Edge Outfitter. Additional event details will be discussed on November 2 at 7 p.m. during the opening meeting. Open to all ages. 

*Payout subject to change.

One Saturday of every month, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., the Museum of the Cherokee Indian offers a family-friendly fun day of free cultural activities including traditional dancing, storytelling, cultural arts demonstrations, genealogy workshops, hands-on craft workshops and more. Traditional food is available on-site, weather permitting. The Cherokee Friends offer workshops on traditional dancing and cultural arts demonstrations including wampum belt making, moccasin making, stickball stick making, wood carving, fire making, and more. Hands-on workshops are taught by members of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians and often include making a clay medallion or a traditional Cherokee pot stamped with wooden paddles carved with designs. Different members of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians share stories and flute music. Every month includes activities related to that month’s theme. 

Activities are sponsored by the Museum, the North Carolina Arts Council, and the Cherokee Preservation Foundation. Regular prices apply to food and to admission to Museum exhibits.

Monthly Themes
May 12 - Anisgvti (Planting Month) 
June 9 - Cherokee Voices Festival
July 14 - Guyegwoni (Corn in Tassel Month)
August 11 - Galoni (End of Fruit Month)
September 8 - Dulisdini (Nut Month)
October 13 -  Duninvdi (Harvest Month)
November 10 - Nvdadegwa (Hunter Month/Big Moon)
December 8 - Vsgiyi (Snow Month)

Get ready for Turkey Day with a 5K. On-site registration will be available from 10:30–11:30 a.m. Or pre-register online at runsignup.com. The race begins at noon.

Pre-sale Tickets:
$15 for adults before November 13, and $20 after November 13 
$5 for adults ages 59 and up
$5 for kids ages 12 and younger

One Saturday of every month, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., the Museum of the Cherokee Indian offers a family-friendly fun day of free cultural activities including traditional dancing, storytelling, cultural arts demonstrations, genealogy workshops, hands-on craft workshops and more. Traditional food is available on-site, weather permitting. The Cherokee Friends offer workshops on traditional dancing and cultural arts demonstrations including wampum belt making, moccasin making, stickball stick making, wood carving, fire making, and more. Hands-on workshops are taught by members of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians and often include making a clay medallion or a traditional Cherokee pot stamped with wooden paddles carved with designs. Different members of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians share stories and flute music. Every month includes activities related to that month’s theme. 

Activities are sponsored by the Museum, the North Carolina Arts Council, and the Cherokee Preservation Foundation. Regular prices apply to food and to admission to Museum exhibits.

Monthly Themes
May 12 - Anisgvti (Planting Month) 
June 9 - Cherokee Voices Festival
July 14 - Guyegwoni (Corn in Tassel Month)
August 11 - Galoni (End of Fruit Month)
September 8 - Dulisdini (Nut Month)
October 13 -  Duninvdi (Harvest Month)
November 10 - Nvdadegwa (Hunter Month/Big Moon)
December 8 - Vsgiyi (Snow Month)