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TOWNSEND, Tenn. –  Smoky Mountain Bigfoot Festival will return for its fourth year on Saturday, May 4 (May the Fourth be with you), at the Townsend Visitors Center located at 7906 East Lamar Alexander Parkway. This year the festival occurs on the same day as National Star Wars Day. Bigfoot fans of all ages can come experience the mystical science and tantalizing fun of the mystical being. 

Fans can start the day getting their hearts pumping by participating in the Bigfoot 5K and fun run beginning at 9 a.m outside of Peaceful Side Social. Race tickets are $50 and include a festival ticket, event parking, Bigfoot t-shirt, Bigfoot lanyard, headband and a medal at the finish line. Organizers say they are hoping to get 1,000 runners, which would be a record number.

Special events include:

• Bigfoot competitions
• Bigfoot wrestling
• Clogger performances
• Live music
• Even more special guest speakers, storytellers and Bigfoot researchers
• Wood carving contest 

Festival Organizer Brian Johnston said, “Each year we try to engage our guests in a way that humanizes Bigfoot. This year there’s going to be a big reveal on the main stage with Bigfoot in the early afternoon. It’s hard to describe the energy of our supporters and charisma of Bigfoot, but we think this event showcases the whimsical side of the Smokies.”

Plus, festival-goers can purchase Bigfoot merchandise such as t-shirts and reusable water bottles. With more than 70 vendors, there are a plethora of options for memorable swag. For hungry Sasquatch fans more than 25 food trucks will be on site. 

“The anticipation of more than 10,000 visitors excites us,” said Kim Mitchell, Director of Tourism for Blount Partnership “These guests have the opportunity to explore Townsend and the greater Blount County area. This is one of our favorite events of the year and we look forward to visitors from near and far engaging in the Bigfoot Festival as well as Blount County.”

 

Attendees can join the fun from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tickets are $10 in advance or $15 the day of the event and can be purchased online here. Kids 10 and under are free. Parking is available on site for $25 per vehicle with proceeds benefitting the Townsend Fire Department. Respectful dogs and mindful dog owners are welcome.