Smoky Mountain Tourism Development Authority (SMTDA), the tourism entity of Blount Partnership, joins parks, programs and partners across the country to encourage individuals and families to find their park during National Park Week April 18-26.
National Park Week is America’s largest celebration of national heritage. The National Park Service is partnering with the National Park Foundation, the official charity of America’s national parks, to present this year’s theme, “Find Your Park.”
“National Park Week is a great opportunity for the public to explore and learn about their national parks,” said Kim Mitchell, director of tourism operations for Blount Partnership. “Discovering and experiencing a national park can be life changing. As the most visited national park in the country, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park sees more than 10 million visitors per year. We invite the community, travelers, tourists and local individuals to find their park and visit the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.”
As part of the celebration, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is hosting several events during National Park Week, including the following taking place at the Cades Cove Visitors Center:
· Blacksmith Demonstrations: Why it’s important to Cades Cove
April 18 and 19
10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
· Junior Ranger Program: Led by park rangers
Young visitors are invited to explore, learn and be sworn in as junior rangers
Every Saturday through May 9
1 – 1:45 p.m.
· WILD Program: Hands-on demonstrations in the park
Every Saturday through May 9
2:30 – 3 p.m.
SMTDA invites the public to join in this annual event and experience what the Great Smoky Mountains has to offer. To learn more about how you can join parks, programs and partners in celebrating National Park Week across the country, visitwww.NationalParkWeek.org. For tips on planning your next visit, visit www.smokymountains.org.