New this year is a laser light show. The 20-minute show, combining lasers with music, will begin each night at approximately 10:30 after the last live bluegrass concert.
Also new is the bluegrass music tent. "Bluegrass music is such an important part of our heritage here in the Great Smoky Mountains," said event organizer Amanda Marr. "We really wanted to provide an opportunity for kids (and kids at heart) to touch bluegrass instruments and learn to play a little." There will be instructors and instruments on site.
There will be new children's activities in the expanded Kid's Zone, including a helicopter simulator, a climbing wall, inflatables, games, face painting, and more.
As before, Bloomin' Barbeque and Bluegrass will bring cook teams from all over the U.S. to Sevierville to compete for $15,000 in cash and prizes and the title of state champion in the barbeque cookoff.
The third annual Mountain Soul Vocal Competition, which honors the songwriting of Sevierville's Dolly Parton, is the only competition of its kind anywhere. The finals begin May 19 at 11:30 a.m.
Bloomin' Barbeque and Bluegrass will feature up-and-coming bluegrass musicians as well as seasoned performers. Admission and concerts are free. For more information call 453-6411 or visit www.BloominBBQ.com.