Greening Up the Mountains Spring Festival in the Smokies

April 27 -  The 16th annual Greening Up the Mountains Festival takes place Saturday,  on Main and Mill streets in historic downtown Sylva NC.  The fun begins with the 5K run at 9 AM, while festival hours are 10 AM. to 5 PM.

This free festival celebrates spring in the mountains, when the greening leaves work their way up the Great Smoky Mountains. It also celebrates the greening of the environment, with info about sustainable living and presentations by environmental groups.

Traditional heritage crafts are available throughout the festival, while three music stages feature local bands, children's performances, heritage dancers, and a popular youth talent show.

Musical acts set to perform include: The Freight Hoppers, Buchanan Boys, John-Luke Carter, PMA (Positive Mental Attitude), Porch 40, Sugar Barnes and Dave Magill, The
Second Hand String Band, Marshall Ballew, Total War, Noonday Sun, Local, Curt Collins and Rachel Waterhouse, Matt Williams, and Pearly Peach.

Children's activities include: storytelling, face painting, an inflatable slide, volunteer projects and more. Food vendors will also be on hand.

The annual Greening Up the Mountains 5K Run also takes place. It will be the second year on a newly-designed route that is less strenuous than in past years.

A project of the Town of Sylva, Greening Up the Mountains is one of Jackson County's largest annual events, drawing more than 10,000 visitors each year.

For more info, visit GreeningUpTheMountains.com or call (828) 506-3419.  Find more information for lodging, restaurants and attractions on the Sylva NC Visitor Guide.