News Release

History and Tradition During The 25th Annual Spring Planting and Music Festival on April 26, 2025

NPS Photo

News Release Date: April 14, 2025

Contact: Christopher Derman, [phone]

Oneida, Tenn. – Music, heritage, and hands-on history come alive at this immersive Appalachian celebration for all ages.

Step into the heritage and traditions of the Cumberland Plateau during the 25^th annual Spring Planting and Heritage Festival, a day-long celebration of Appalachian culture happening Saturday, April 26 from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM ET in the heart of Big South Fork National River & Recreation Area.

Spread across three locations, the event offers a full day of music, demonstrations, food, crafts, and family-friendly activities that showcase the richness and resilience of mountain life. A free shuttle bus will be available throughout the day for those who prefer not to walk between sites.

At the Bandy Creek Area, enjoy a full lineup of live music under the main tent, featuring performances in bluegrass, traditional Appalachian, Americana, and singer-songwriter styles.
 

Time	Group Name
10:00 - 10:45 AM	Knoxville Area Dulcimer
11:00 - 11:45 AM	Jordan Hughett
12:00 - 12:45 PM	Dry Creek Ramblers
1:00 - 1:45 PM	David Howard
2:00 - 2:45 PM	Gerald Handwright
3:00-3:45 PM	Chris Young

Bandy Creek Main Tent Music Schedule. All times listed in Eastern Time.

Surrounding the music tent, a wide array of local food and craft vendors will be on hand, offering everything from handmade goods to regional favorites. Families with young children (and the young-at-heart) can stop by the old-timey toys tent and play with wooden toys crafted in the style of those enjoyed by earlier generations.

A short hike along the Oscar Blevins Trail will take visitors to the Oscar Blevins Farm, where historic demonstrations such as blacksmithing, log-cutting, and other essential pioneer-era trades will be on display. These live presentations provide a look into the skills that helped sustain Appalachian communities for generations.

At the Lora Blevins Farm, the focus is on the practical skills and time-honored traditions that supported everyday life in the mountains. Witness mule teams plowing, butter churning, quilting, and a historic moonshining demonstration, offering insight into the labor and ingenuity that defined life on the plateau.

Admission is free, and all are welcome to attend this enriching day of Appalachian heritage. Whether you're a history enthusiast, music lover, curious traveler, or local neighbor, the annual Spring Planting Heritage Festival offers a unique chance to connect with the traditions that continue to shape the Big South Fork Region.

Bring the family, pique your curiosity, and take part in a celebration of culture, community, and the enduring spirit of Appalachian life. For more information about this event, click here: https://www.nps.gov/biso/planyourvisit/springplanting.htm

www.nps.gov

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