Nashville may be best noted for its tremendous display of country music, but January 31 through February 3 it will be bluegrass that takes center stage as the SPBGMA Bluegrass Music Awards & Convention visits the Sheraton Music City Hotel. Making its 32nd annual appearance in Nashville, the SPBGMA Bluegrass Music Awards & Convention highlights only the best in the world of bluegrass through performances and an awards show. Aside from the official proceedings of the event, you’ll also find a variety of musical workshops, band showcases and various other activities taking place throughout the weekend for a full and varied time of bluegrass!

The actual awards ceremony is set for the last night of the event, though those wanting to fully experience all that the SPBGMA Bluegrass Awards & Convention has to offer will definitely want to arrive in town a few days early. Below is a tentative schedule of events centered around this great time of bluegrass to help travelers plan accordingly.

34th Annual SPBGMA Bluegrass Music Awards & Convention Tentative Schedule of Events

Thursday, January 31, 2008

Bluegrass Gospel Concert – Set to include Billie Renee’ & Cumberland Gap, NewFound Road and more

Friday, February 1, 2008

Banjo Workshop

Trade Exhibits

Showcase of Bands – Set to include JD Crow & The New South, Chris Jones & The Reno Tradition, NewFound Road and more

Saturday, February 2, 2008

International Band Championship – Set to include Dailey & Vincent, Dean Osborn Band, Kentucky Blue and more

Sunday, February 3, 2008

Gospel Music Concert – Set to include The Martin Family, Shallow Creek, Bluegrass Brigade and more

34th Annual SPBGMA Bluegrass Music Awards Show - Hosted by Rarely Herd with performances by Rhonda Vincent & the Rage, Rarely Herd, Ronnie Bowman, The Grascals, Lewis Family and IIIrd Tyme Out

The Gatlinburg – Pigeon Forge area is well noted for its distinct culture and heritage, and with the Annual Smoky Mountains Storytelling Festival you’ll be able to experience quality entertainment originated from the heart of the Smokies. Held February 7 – 9, the Annual Smoky Mountains Storytelling Festival features a variety of workshops and performances to not only offer entertainment during your vacation, but to help you polish up on the time-honored tradition of spinning a good yarn. Great for both those that thoroughly enjoy a well thought out story and those simply looking to experience the authentic culture of the Smokies, don’t miss out on the Annual Smoky Mountains Storytelling Festival!

For those looking to turn their visit to the Annual Smoky Mountains Storytelling Festival into a full vacation, there are a variety of options that can offer both entertainment and an encompassing look at the land as well.

The Ober Gatlinburg Aerial Tram offers Gatlinburg – Pigeon Forge visitors an unparalleled view of the Smoky Mountains area, and is a perfect compliment to the cultural entertainment of the Annual Smoky Mountains Storytelling Festival. The tram travels from downtown Gatlinburg to Ober Gatlinburg Ski Resort & Amusement Park, offering guests approximately 20 minutes of panoramic sightseeing. And the best part is you don’t get just one ride with your order, but an unlimited two day pass! So whether you’re looking to get just the right photo opportunity or merely enjoying viewing the Smokies from the sky, you’ll be set.

Of course, a trip to Gatlinburg isn’t complete without visiting the Great Smoky Mountains themselves. And there’s no better way to take in an encompassing view of the Smokies than with an exciting helicopter tour. From brief flights that merely take you up for a view to immersive journeys that span over 80 miles, there are numerous ways to enjoy the Smokies from the sky during your next Gatlinburg vacation.