Cherokee Blog

A free fishing event for children ages 3 to 11! Enjoy a weekend of fun in the sun with the kids--the biggest catches get the biggest prizes, worth up to $20,000. Friday, July 31, is pre-registration and kids get free bait, hooks, sinkers, a fishing pole, and a free T-shirt and hat. At the derby, August 1st, registered children can catch up to five fish apiece to take home. The weekend is jam-packed with fun activities including a zip line, selfie station, 40-foot obstacle course, inflatables, educational programs, and more. Make memories and new friends--you don't want to miss it! 

There's still time to catch Unto These Hills before the season finale on August 15th. Reserve your tickets today and watch the drama unfold under the stars in the historic Mountainside Theater. Since 1950, over 6 million people have seen the performance, which is one of the most beloved attractions in Cherokee. Unto These Hills follows the story of the Cherokee up through the Trail of Tears, in a stirring performance that combines song, dance, and plenty of action. Mike Crowe, who has acted in the drama for the last 10 seasons, says it's more than a performance, it's a calling. Read on to find out why. 

On August 29th, from 9 am to 4 pm, the 13th annual Open Air Indian Art Market will be held outside Qualla Arts and Crafts Mutual. Visitors can meet some of the member artists, shop their wares, and enjoy live craft demos including beadwork, woodwork, stone carving, jewelry making, basket weaving, and pottery. There will also be live music during the day, and traditional Cherokee dinners for sale made by members of the North American Indian Women's Association (NAIWA). The event is free and open to the public.

Freddy Winoty II is a Cherokee native and the lead singer for the dance performances that happen twice daily at the Oconaluftee Indian Village. With a long, rich legacy of art in his family, Freddy has made a name for himself in his own art and performance work. Meet Freddy for yourself and see why he says that his work isn't just about entertaining--it's about living out his Cherokee culture every single day. 

It takes months of planning, weeks to set up, and lights--lots of lights!--to create the Cherokee Lights and Legends event at the Cherokee Fairgrounds on display through January 2nd. The event takes place Thursday-Saturday from 6pm-9pm, and is closed December 24-26.