Up on the mountain above downtown Gatlinburg, autumn comes with a Bavarian accent. Anakeesta’s popular Bear-Varian Fall Festival is back, blending the charm of a Bavarian beer garden with the beauty of the Tennessee mountains, and it runs through November 1.
As the Smokies shift into their most colorful season, the park is decked out with themed décor, live entertainment, and seasonal food, making it a family-friendly way to celebrate fall.
What to Expect
- Bavarian-inspired food: Smoked Pork Shank at Smokehouse with ale demi-glace and German potato salad; a Pork Schnitzel Plate at Clifftop; a Bavarian Spiral Potato with gouda cream sauce, sauerkraut, and pork belly; Loaded Pretzel Bites; and a classic Jumbo Pretzel with beer cheese
- Fall sweets: Apple Cinnamon Roll, warm Apple Plait, a Bavarian Crepe with cinnamon apples and crème brûlée filling, and a German Chocolate Shake
- Bear-Varian Tasting Card (21+): An optional add-on with six 8 oz. pours from ten brew partners, including presenting sponsor Blackhorse Brewing, Xul Beer Company, Gypsy Circus Cider, Highland Brewing, Tailgate Brewery, Von Trapp Brewing, Peaceful Side Brewing, Hi-Wire Brewing, Edmunds Oast Brewing Co., and Cide Chicks Cider Company
- Live entertainment: The Undead Heads at Stone Village Stage, The Vampirettes at Black Bear Village Stage, polka-style hits from The Pretzel-Tones, and the Bear-Varian Bonanza Games hosted by Gretchen
- Meet Hans: Anakeesta’s cheerful Bear-Varian stilt walker, roaming the mountain for photos
“Between the food, beverage, and entertainment, there’s something at Bear-Varian for the whole family to enjoy,” said Karen Bentz, founding partner of Anakeesta.
Dates & Location
- Dates: August 28 through November 1
- Where: Anakeesta, in downtown Gatlinburg
- Hours and tickets: Check anakeesta.com for current hours, admission, and Tasting Card pricing
Planning Tip
Time your visit for late afternoon so you can enjoy the fall color in daylight and settle in for food and music as the sun goes down. If you plan to use the Tasting Card, pace your six pours across the day and bring a designated driver or walk from your downtown lodging.
Source: The Mountain Press and Anakeesta
