As anticipation for the new year grows, we are looking forward to everything Lakeside of the Smokies has to offer for 2024. From the numerous exciting events that will be taking place to the lazy lake days of summer we can’t wait for another year of reveling in the natural splendor of East Tennessee. So, we challenge you to embark on an adventure, check off an item from your bucket list, or simply unwind and savor the great outdoors with a Smoky Mountain vacation. East Tennessee beckons throughout the year, promising new experiences in each season. Join us as we dive into some of the exhilarating prospects on the horizon for 2024.
Reel Em’ In – Bass Fishing on Douglas and Cherokee Lakes
Bassmaster College Series
Strike King Bassmaster College series visits six different lakes across the county, making a stop at Douglas Lake March 7-8, 2024. With teams representing colleges from across the country and an updated format, this year, we can expect lots of excitement and a fish-filled weekend!
Bill Dance Giant Bass Open
The second year of the Bill Dance Giant Bass Open is set to take place on Douglas Lake April 20-21. The collaborative initiative known as the Bill Dance Giant Bass Open Tournament Series, proudly sponsored by the Bill Dance Signature Lakes, is a joint venture involving the Governor Bill Lee’s Office, The Tennessee Department of Tourist Development, Tennessee State Parks, The Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency, and Bill Dance Outdoors.
Established in honor of the renowned Tennessean, Bill Dance, the Bill Dance Signature Lakes aim to perpetuate his legacy by improving fisheries management and public access at the designated 9 Signature Lakes across the state.
BFL Division and the Major League Fishing All-American
Next up, the Bass Fishing League and Major League Fishing will be here in mid-May for the Volunteer Division showdown at Douglas Lake and for the All-American Tournament May 29-31 on Cherokee Lake.
Cue the Music – Festivals, Food and Fun
Spirit of Nations Powwow
Jefferson County High School will serve as host to the Spirit of the Nations Pow Wow on March 23, 2024. The event will feature music, dancing demonstrations, contests, and a silent auction. Visit the PowWow website for more information.
June Jubilee
The county’s largest & oldest street festival, June Jubilee returns for another fun filled day for the whole family. You can expect vendors, crafters and live music throughout the event.
Music on the Town
The music doesn’t stop there! Music on the Town will take place every Thursday evening running from the beginning of September through mid-October. Last year, we enjoyed hearing from The Tams, Chairmen of the Board, Darryl Worley, and others. These concerts take place at the Town Hall Stage in historic downtown Dandridge.
Pine Fest
We can’t forget about Pine Fest! This family-friendly festival features food, crafts, and lots of fun in White Pine. This event usually takes place in September.
Scots-Irish Festival
Rounding out the fall events is the Scots Irish festival in downtown Dandridge. This FREE event is scheduled for September 28, 2024. In 2023, we enjoyed bagpipes, Highland and Irish Step dancers, and a Celtic Rock Band. There are lots of games and activities for children to enjoy as well.
Stop & Stay Awhile – New Places to Stay near the Smoky Mountains on Douglas and Cherokee Lakes
There have always been great places to stay in Lakeside of the Smokies. Whether it’s a family reunion, lake trip, girls’ weekend, or a wedding, we can’t wait for you to visit these new options in 2024!
Forest Grove RV Park
Forest Grove RV Park is set to open in April. This campground is 200 acres with 300 planned RV spots and 100 planned cabins. Each RV spot will have Wi-Fi, cable, water, and sewer hook ups. Other accommodations include a convenience market, bath houses, fire pits, grills and more!
Lake Haven Resort
Lake Haven Resort on Douglas Lake features modern, luxury lakeside cabins. With five different floor plans, you will surely be able to find an option that fits your family’s needs. There is a picnic area, fire pit, pavilion, walking trail, and a dock/common water area. Learn more about this cabin resort here.
Barndominums at Cedar Pond Farms
Cedar Pond Farms in New Market, TN will have several barndominium style spaces that are perfect for a romantic weekend getaway, or for a whole family reunion! Cedar Pond Farm also has small cabins and tiny homes on the property overlooking their catfish pond and fields that are perfect for guests who are attending onsite weddings, family reunions, school trips, or even corporate events. Learn more at cedarpondfarms.com.
New Shopping & Dining Experiences Coming in 2024
The local shops and restaurants of Jefferson County are what make visiting the Lakeside such a great experience! Check out some of the new places to shop and grab a bite to eat!
Unkind Raven Books
Getting lost in a good book is such an enjoyable experience. The Unkind Raven is happy to introduce themselves as a used Booktique in Dandridge. The Unkind Raven is online and mobile with hopes of finding a physical location soon! Shop their selection of books here.
The Broken Teacup
With fun and unique styles, the Broken Teacup is sure to be one of the top shops to visit in 2024. Located in Jefferson City, close to Carson Newman University and Cherokee Lake, the shop just celebrated their grand opening in December.
A Project of Love – The Old City Hall Project
Saved by local residents with a passion for history and preservation, Jefferson City’s, “Old City Hall” is being revitalized and repurposed to feature a heritage center, overnight lodging, an event venue center, as well as restaurants. Already in place, Patriot Wood Fire Pizza is set to open its doors on the first of January. A longtime favorite food truck in our area, they are realizing a lifelong dream of a brick-and-mortar restaurant to serve their renowned wood fired pizza! Learn more about the City Hall Project.
Favorites Year after Year
We can’t forget about our favorite places around the county that have been staples in the community for so long!
Tinsley Bible Drug Store
Not only is Tinsley a full-service pharmacy, but they also serve food and drink reminiscent of the drug stores of yester-year. Check out their menu here and be sure to grab some ice cream when you stop by!
Mountain Harbor Inn
Awarded one of the top 10 resorts in their category in the world, Moutain Harbor Inn is great for a romantic getaway on the lake! Every stay includes a sunset cruise, candlelight dessert, and breakfast buffet. Book your stay today!
Glenmore Mansion
The Glenmore Mansion, a true Victorian treasure, draws thousands of visitors annually. The mansion has tours and events throughout the year that history and architecture buffs are sure to enjoy. To learn more about the mansion and some of its events visit their website.
Smoky Mountain H2O
You can’t visit Lakeside of the Smokies and not get out on the lake! Smoky Mountain H2O Sports offers boat, jet ski, paddleboard, and kayak rentals. In addition, you can rent tubes, wake/knee board, or skis to add to your water adventure. You can even rent your boat for the weekend.
The Lakeside of the Smokies is ready for the new year!
We hope you all have had a fun and enjoyable holiday season. We are excited to look ahead at all that 2024 has to offer. And you might have noticed, our site also has a new look! We will continue to bring you great options to Eat, Play and Stay for years to come!