UNICOI — The Town of Unicoi will host its Christmas Open House at the Tourist Information Center Friday, Dec. 13, from noon to 2 p.m.

The visitor center, located just off exit 32 in Unicoi, will be decorated for the holiday season and the Buffalo Conference Room will be filled with scrumptious hors d’oeuvres from local restaurants, Mountain Harvest Kitchen users and “home cooks” within the community.

“I’m thrilled we have the opportunity to showcase some of the town’s amazing food offerings,” said Communications and Programs Director Ashley Shelton. “With specialties from our brick-and-mortar restaurants to the many ‘home cooks’ within the community, guests will have their fill of delicious food.”

The Tanasi Art Gallery, located inside the visitor center, will also be open for some last minute Christmas shopping and offers unique items handmade locally. “It’s great to have a place to display the local talent we have here in Unicoi,” said Mayor Johnny Lynch. “Guests can find some really professional pieces in that gallery and that’s not something every small town can say.”

In addition to one-ofa-kind gifts and tasty food, visitors can also take a tour of the Mountain Harvest Kitchen located next door. The food-business incubator is a regional economic development driver aimed at fostering entrepreneurship and enhancing the local food economy.

“I think it will be neat for guests to be able to see the facility and sample the results at the visitor center,” said Mountain Harvest Kitchen Director Lee Manning. “Our kitchen users work hard to grow their businesses and with the town as a client it really helps them get their products in front of a broader audience.”

“We’re really proud of the kitchen and we want people to see the good it’s doing not only in the community, but all over the region,” said Mayor Lynch.

Guests are invited to stop by the Tourist Information Center anytime between noon and 2 p.m. and while RSVPs are appreciated, they are not required.

For more information, contact Patricia Bennett at

(423) 735-0517 or email recreationaide@unicoitn.net.

Visit UnicoiTN.net/eventsfor a complete listing of all holiday activities within the Town of Unicoi.