News Release

Vendor Opportunities Open for the 33rd Annual Haunting in the Hills Storytelling Festival at Big South Fork

NPS Photo

News Release Date: August 1, 2025

Contact: Daniel Banks, [phone]

Oneida, Tennessee - Are you a craftsperson, artisan, or food vendor looking for a great opportunity to share your work? We are currently seeking vendors to join the 33rd Annual Haunting in the Hills Storytelling Festival on Saturday, September 20, 2025, at Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area!

This long-standing tradition draws visitors from near and far for a day filled with storytelling, traditional arts, crafts, and great food. If you create handmade goods, unique art, or delicious treats, we’d love for you to be part of this year’s festival.

A one-time fee of $25 is required for both food and craft vendors interested in being a part of this one-day festival. This fee can also be applied towards an application to be a part of other park-sponsored events such as the Blue Heron Ghost Mine event on October 18, 2025. All vendors will need to bring their own tent, table, chairs, and equipment. Electrical hook-ups and water access will be provided for food vendors, please be aware that generators are not allowed.

All food vendors must have a Certified Food Manager (CFM) on site, as mandated by the National Park Service policy. Obtaining this certification involves passing an ANSI-accredited food safety exam, which can be done online through providers like AAA Food Handler. The cost and additional details for this certification can be found at https://aaafoodhandler.com/food-manager-certification/.  Along with your application, please submit a copy of the CFM certificate, general liability insurance, the most recent inspection report, and business license for review and approval.

Interested individuals should contact the permit coordinator, Letitia Neal, [phone] ext. 4040, or [e-mail]. Applications are available online at https://www.nps.gov/biso/getinvolved/commercial-use-authorization-application-and-requirements.htm. While craft vendor applications will be accepted up until the day of the event, food vendors need to apply no later than September 7th, 2025. Space is limited, so early applications are encouraged.

For additional information on this special event as well as other events, call us at [phone], or visit online at: https://www.nps.gov/biso/planyourvisit/storytelling.htm.

www.nps.gov

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