Cherokee Bonfire

A diamond-shaped image of people gathering around a campfire at dusk, with a woman in sharp focus roasting a marshmallow, and others blurred in the background, conveying a sense of communal culture.
A vibrant bonfire burns brightly in a dark setting, flames twisting and turning against the dim, shadowy background, capturing the essence of Cherokee seasonal attractions while man drums

About the experience

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 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.

Details

Learn about Cherokee traditions and lifestyle from educators, roast marshmallows with the kids, and enjoy social dances by the river. For more information call the Cherokee Welcome Center at 800.438.1601 or email us [email protected]

When do the Bonfire stories crackle?

  • 7:00–9:00 p.m.
  • Friday through Saturday
  • July 2024 Dates: 4, 5, 6, 7, 12, 13, 14, 19, 20, 21, 26, 27, 28
  • August 2024 Dates: 2, 3, 4, 9, 10, 11, 16, 17, 18, 23, 24, 25, 30
  • September 2024 Dates: 7, 8, 14, 15, 21, 22, 28, 29
  • October 2024 Dates: 12, 13, 19, 20, 26, 27
  • Located at Oconaluftee Islands Park, on Tsali Blvd.

You can’t beat the entertainment and fun! Best of all it’s Free and you walk away with knowledge of our people and maybe a picture or two!

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Stay and play

Each place you visit in Cherokee pulses with the stories and significance of a people whose roots run deep and whose ancient wisdom is fascinating to uncover. Nestled in the lush landscapes of Western North Carolina, Cherokee invites you to smell the wood smoke and open your ears. If you listen closely, maybe you can hear the chanting of the little Nunnehi people of the mountain peaks. No need to resist Cherokee’s invitations to dive right in. Fire off a blowgun if you dare, but make sure your spouse is in the clear. As you cast your line into the trout-filled rivers or wash your face in the sweet spray of a waterfall, let the powerful feelings of Cherokee carry you. Even if it’s just for a day or two.

Fire Mountain Trails
fire mountain

Fire Mountain Trails

Oconaluftee Indian Village
Qualla Arts and Crafts Mutual, Inc.
Sequoyah National Golf Club
Harrah’s Cherokee Casino Resort
River Tubing
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River Tubing

Oconaluftee Islands Park
Fire Mountain Disc Golf
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Fire Mountain Disc Golf

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Collage of cultural outdoor activities: top shows a bright bonfire, bottom left features a man in traditional attire performing with fire, and the right images depict people gathered around a fire pit and observing a

Cherokee Awaits.