Where the Mountains Meet the Music
An annual multi-day celebration of authentic Appalachian music featuring national headliners, legendary artists, and traditional musicians in an intimate mountain setting.
Spring or Fall 2026
Date TBA
Townsend, Tennessee
The Peaceful Side of the Smokies
3,000-5,000
Intimate festival experience
4 Performance Areas
Plus workshops & activities
Unlike massive commercial festivals or tourist-trap experiences, the Little River Music Festival celebrates authentic Appalachian musical heritage in an intimate, non-commercialized setting. We bring together legendary artists, emerging talent, and traditional musicians to create a multi-generational gathering place where music, history, and community converge.
Real mountain music in its natural setting, no gimmicks
Small capacity means close connection with artists and community
All ages, all skill levels, everyone welcome to participate
From headliners to traditionalists, something for every music lover
Heritage Headliners - Evening performances featuring nationally recognized artists and legendary musicians
Tier 1 Headliners
Billy Strings, Tyler Childers caliber
Legend Artists
Del McCoury, Rhonda Vincent, Sam Bush
Capacity: 5,000-10,000
Hours: 7:00 PM - 11:00 PM
Emerging Artists & Regional Talent - Afternoon and early evening performances showcasing rising stars
Rising Stars
Compass Records artists, touring acts
Regional Favorites
Appalachian musicians making waves
Capacity: 1,000-2,000
Hours: 2:00 PM - 7:00 PM
Traditional & Interactive - Old-time musicians, square dancing, and hands-on workshops throughout the day
Traditional Musicians
Preserving old-time Appalachian styles
Square Dance Sessions
Caller-led community dancing
Capacity: 200-500
Hours: 11:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Preservation & Learning - Recording booth, storytelling sessions, and intimate conversations with master musicians
Recording Sessions
Document elder musicians' stories
Meet the Artists
Q&A and listening sessions
Capacity: Varies by session
Hours: All day programming
More than just concerts - a complete celebration of mountain culture
Local food vendors, craft beer from regional breweries, and artisan makers selling instruments, crafts, and mountain goods
Instrument petting zoo, music games, arts and crafts, youth performances, and family jam sessions
Learn from master musicians in hands-on workshops covering banjo, fiddle, guitar, singing, and dancing techniques
Multiple options to experience the festival
Single day access
Full festival access
Premium experience
"The Peaceful Side of the Smokies"
Set along the Little River with stunning mountain views, Townsend offers an authentic Appalachian setting that's increasingly rare. Just minutes from the Great Smoky Mountains National Park entrance, the area provides natural beauty without commercial development.
Camping, cabins, and lodging options available in and around Townsend. More details and partner discounts coming soon.
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