NEWPORT-The local tradition continues!  For the past 23 years, the fine folks of the Smoky Mountains of East Tennessee have gathered on the first weekend of October along the streets of Newport, for two days of music, food, fun and festivities.  This year, the tradition continues and promises to be the biggest and best ever! And, Old Timey Night will offer a step back in time.

A special opening ceremony, coordinated by Newport AMVETS Post 75, beginning at 9:30 a.m. on the Cocke County Courthouse lawn. Stop by the National Guard Armory booth and show your support. Saturday the festivities will run from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.  and Sunday hours will be 12:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. Two downtown stages will present a variety of music. Free to the public, make sure to mark your calendars for the entire weekend of fun!

A live concert beginning at 7 pm featuring, Dietra Greene and head lining will be The Dreadful Hillbillies Band from Maryville, will be a great ending to an exciting day at the festival.

 Authentic country cookin' and festival fare will be served in the food court. Make sure to come hungry-corn dogs and funnel cakes are calling your name!  Regional and local arts and crafts communities will be represented with a sampling of their wares. If you are looking for that special gift - you have come to the right place! Admire the artists' work and pick up that one-of-a-kind hand crafted item.

Your kids will jump for joy at the games and rides in Kiddie Land! All aboard the Kiwanis Train as community conductors offer a moving glimpse of the festivities. 

Step back in time on the Courthouse lawn and join our vendors as they celebrate their mountain heritage. From antique engines and tractors to turn-of-the-century cooking, the events surrounding the square will evoke the sights, sounds and the memories of yesteryear.

On the opposite side of the Courthouse, lovely ladies and gents from around the region will compete in a series of pageants for girls and boys up to 21-years-old. On Sunday, a worship service will be held. The rest of the day, enjoy the sounds of music as a variety of Gospel and traditional music fills the air.

The Newport Street Festival is a two-day celebration of Smoky Mountain culture, heritage and tradition that has become one of the most anticipated events in Cocke County.

"This is a fun filled family weekend for all, so be sure to bring the whole family," said Kandee Veridal, Director of Operations for the Chamber. "Come explore our past and celebrate our future with us along the streets of historic Downtown Newport."