Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is there parking on site?
Yes. There is on-site parking available. All proceeds benefit the Townsend Fire Department. Cash or credit card is accepted. Note that you can also purchase VIP parking in advance.
What does VIP parking include?
VIP parking includes a guaranteed parking spot in close proximity to the festival grounds.
Can I purchase parking day-of?
If parking on the festival grounds doesn’t sell out in advance, you will be able to purchase parking day-of. Cash or credit card will be accepted. Other locations throughout Townsend will offer parking as well.
Are tickets for sale day-of?
Yes, tickets are available for purchase day-of for $15.
Do I need a ticket for my child?
Children 10 and under are free, but you do need to purchase a $0.00 ticket.
Will there be a VIB (Very Important Believer) event this year?
Yes. Details and tickets can be found here.
Can I bring my dog to the event?
Yes, the event is pet-friendly. Please be a responsible owner and always keep your dog on a leash. Please also bring bags to clean up your dog’s waste.
How much do the special guests charge for autographs and photos?
Autographs are free with purchase of 8×10 or merchandise. If you bring your own item, autographs are $10. Photographs with guests are free.
Is this event family-friendly?
Yes! There will be a variety of activities that the whole family to enjoy.
What time do the gates open on festival day?
Gates open at 10:00 am, programming begins at 11:00 am.
If I am running in the 5K, do I need to purchase a festival event ticket or parking?
Your race entry includes parking for the festival (a $25 savings) and free entry to the event. If you move your car after the race, you’ll be asked to pay $25 for parking. Your non-running companions will need to pay the $15 entry fee (or $10 advance purchase).
Is there handicap parking available?
The majority of this outdoor festival will take place in a field. Our VIP parking option secures parking adjacent to the entry gate, but please note that there is uneven ground and gravel walking paths throughout festival footprint.
Can I bring a water bottle into the festival?
Unfortunately, due to unforeseen circumstances, we will no longer be able to offer water bottle refilling. Water is available for purchase at the festival.
Can I bring a bag into the festival?
We do allow you to enter the festival with a bag; however, any bags are subject to search by our security team.
Can I bring a chair to the festival?
Yes, we do encourage you to bring your own chair(s).
Can I bring in outside food or drink or a cooler?
No, please do not bring in outside food or drink into the festival footprint. We do allow refillable water bottles. No coolers are allowed.
Is there a shuttle offered?
Yes, a shuttle will run from the festival grounds to area businesses from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm. This shuttle will allow you to explore Townsend businesses in between your time at the festival.
Shuttle stops include: Townsend Visitors Center, Little Arrow Outdoor Resort, Burger Master, Company Distilling, Cades Cove Jeep Outpost/Bigfoot in the Smokies, Townsend Mercantile, The Townsend Abbey, Beyond the Barn, Apple Valley, and Cades Cove Cellars.
Can I bring a canopy or tent?
No, we do not allow attendees to bring canopies or tents into the festival footprint.