"We went ahead and put Christmas decor in all the rooms, Thomas said. “Every room has little touches of Christmas in it, but the only rooms that are majorly themed right now are the suites. Those rooms have Christmas trees and things of that nature."

In addition to a holiday atmosphere, the hotel also uses the works of local artist. Depicting mainly snowy scenes, the paintings of 11 local artists hang throughout.

The hotel also features indoor and outdoor pools, a large outdoor patio, meeting rooms, and a full breakfast for guest.

Artist David Ogle of Gatlinburg, who along with his wife Tammie, creates handmade brooms with carved handles, will be among the participants. As third generation craftsmen they are carrying on a tradition that has been in their family for more than 70 years. David Ogle has been practicing and developing his craft since the age of 13.

A fascination with the spirituality of nature attracted Sandy Hensley at an early age. Each piece of jewelry that she makes is handcrafted in a variety of mixed metals.
Artist Nancy Wilson of Sevierville, has "Art of the Past," featuring historic American folk art made up of collectibles such as wood carvings, dolls, toys, circus animals, and hand paintings.

The show will feature the music of Keith Longbotham and his band. Dennis Lee and his band will also play on selected dates.

Hours of the Fair are 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sundays. Music shows are 1, 3, and 5 p.m. daily; 1 and 3 p.m. Sundays; Admission is $5 for Adults; children 12 and under are admitted free. For additional information call 436-7479 or visit www.craftsmenfair.com

RAILFAN DAY

Another first time event for the Three Rivers Rambler this year will be a Railfan Day on Sunday, August 26. Experience a rare mileage trip through Knoxville's industrial sites. The all day event will take passengers northwest along the railroad tracks through town and a working steel plant before taking the scenic excursion to the French Broad and Holston Rivers. Lunch will be served on board and multiple photo opportunities will be available.

Railfan Day will start at 10am on Volunteer Landing. Following the two train rides, the Knoxville Locomotive Works shop will be open to view engines under repair and enjoy a Q&A session with the Master Mechanic of Steam Jeff Parrott. Tickets for the day cost $49.00 per person.

Three Rivers Rambler

The Three Rivers Rambler summer season will run every Saturday and Sunday through August 12 with departures at 2pm and 5pm. Railgates, which are reserved for private parties, takes place next to the stadium during every home football game. The trips in October will highlight the fall foliage and be themed the Pumpkin Express. The very popular Christmas Express happens the first three weekends of December at 11am, 2pm, & 5:00pm. In 2007, an additional departure on Friday evenings is being added because it is such a popular event and sells out every year.

Tickets may be purchased online or at the train, which is located on Knoxville's Volunteer Landing, prior to boarding or by calling 865-524-9411. Birthday parties, caboose charters, and group discounts are available. For more information on the Three Rivers Rambler, visit www.ThreeRiversRambler.com All Aboard!