Upcoming Events

Join us for barn dances, jam sessions, concerts, and more

2026 Event Calendar

Mark your calendars for these upcoming events celebrating Appalachian music heritage

18
Jan 2026

Old Time Barn Dance - Grand Opening

Monthly barn dance series launches with Josh Waters & Friends

6:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Country Manor Acres, Townsend
$15-20 adults, $5 kids
15
Feb 2026

Valentine's Music Festival

Love songs and ballads from the mountains

6:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Country Manor Acres, Townsend
21
Mar 2026

Spring Fling & Wildflower Festival

Celebrate spring in the Smokies with music and dancing

6:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Country Manor Acres, Townsend
TBD
2026

Little River Music Festival

Multi-day celebration featuring national and regional artists

Spring or Fall 2026 (Date TBD)
Townsend, Tennessee

Monthly Barn Dance Series

Old Time Barn Dance happens every month throughout 2026. Each month features a different theme and featured artist. Visit oldtimebarndance.com for the complete schedule.

January: Grand OpeningFebruary: Valentine'sMarch: Spring FlingApril: Earth DayMay: Mountain MusicJune: Summer SolsticeJuly: Independence DayAugust: Harvest MoonSeptember: Fall ColorsOctober: HarvestNovember: Cherokee HeritageDecember: Holiday

Barn Dances

Monthly community gatherings

Jam Sessions

Weekly informal playing

Concerts

Special performances

Workshops

Learn and improve

Monthly Event Series

Old Time Barn Dance

Monthly • 1st or 3rd Saturday • 6:00 PM - 10:00 PM

An authentic Appalachian barn dance experience featuring live bluegrass and old-time music, square dancing with caller, open jam sessions, and family-friendly community atmosphere.

Country Manor Acres
Townsend, Tennessee
Affordable Tickets
$15-20 • $5 kids • $35-40 family
All Welcome
All ages & skill levels
Visit oldtimebarndance.com
Save the Date

Little River Music Festival 2026

Our signature annual celebration of Appalachian music. Save the date for a multi-day festival featuring national headliners, regional talent, and traditional musicians.

What to Expect at the Barn Dance

Event Schedule

  • 6:00 PM: Doors open, jam session begins
  • 7:00 PM: Featured artist performance (Set 1)
  • 8:30 PM: Square dancing with caller (beginner-friendly!)
  • 9:00 PM: Featured artist (Set 2)
  • 9:30 PM: Open jam finale - everyone welcome

What to Bring

  • • Your instrument (BYOI encouraged for jam sessions)
  • • Dancing shoes or comfortable footwear
  • • Friends and family (all ages welcome)
  • • Potluck dish to share (optional but appreciated)
  • • Sense of community and adventure!

No square dance experience required - the caller teaches all moves!

Presented in partnership with Country Manor Acres, Townsend's premier event venue and wedding destination.

Experience the venue, discover authentic Appalachian culture, and help preserve mountain music traditions.

Regular Programming

Weekly

Open Jam Session

Informal weekly gathering for musicians of all skill levels. Bring your instrument and join in, or just come to listen and learn. Traditional Appalachian repertoire emphasized.

6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Townsend, TN
Admission: Free and open to all
Get Details →
Quarterly

Instrument Workshops

Learn traditional Appalachian instrument techniques from experienced musicians. Workshops rotate between banjo, fiddle, guitar, and mandolin. Instruments available for loan.

2:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Townsend, TN
Fee: $25 (includes materials)

Stay Updated

Events are being added regularly as we launch our programming. Subscribe to our calendar to be notified of new events automatically.

Event Information

What to Expect

  • • Family-friendly, all-ages environment
  • • Authentic Appalachian music and traditions
  • • Welcoming to beginners and experienced musicians alike
  • • Opportunities to participate or just listen
  • • Community-focused, non-commercial atmosphere

What to Bring

  • • Your instrument (for jams and workshops)
  • • Dancing shoes (for barn dances)
  • • Dish to share (potluck events)
  • • Folding chair (outdoor events)
  • • Enthusiasm and open mind!

Location

Most events are held in Townsend, Tennessee, at the base of the Great Smoky Mountains. Specific locations will be provided with event registration.

View on Map

Accessibility

We strive to make all events accessible to everyone. Please contact us in advance if you have specific accessibility needs so we can accommodate you.

Contact Us →

Host a Private Event

Bring authentic Appalachian music to your event, festival, or gathering. We can help arrange performers, coordinate workshops, or provide cultural programming tailored to your needs.

Inquire About Booking

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