Event
May 31, 2025
10:00 am to 4:00 pm EDT
Location
Marble Springs State Historic Site 1220 W Governor John Sevier Hwy Knoxville, TN 37920
About this event
Join us for a full day of history, heritage, and Appalachian flavor at the historic home of Tennessee’s first governor, John Sevier. Our annual Statehood Day Festival brings the past to life with hands-on activities, historical demonstrations, local food, and stories that span centuries—all set within the historic homestead at Marble Springs.
Festival Highlights:
Cornbread Cook-Off & Recipe Swap
Home cooks and local food businesses face off in a blind-judged competition at the Pavilion, with winners announced around 1:00 PM.
Think your cornbread has what it takes? Sign up here: https://forms.gle/FkdekBPeESm1LJFJA
Cornbread Tasting with Rising Appalachia
Enjoy a free side-by-side tasting of two cornbread recipes—one from the 18th century and one modern favorite—plus purchase their original “Taste of Tennessee” dishes crafted to honor local flavors.
Traditional Skills & Heritage Crafts
Explore traditional skills and storytelling throughout the day. Craftspeople and interpreters will share techniques and tools that connect us to Tennessee’s roots.
Living History Encampments & Reenactors
Meet costumed interpreters portraying early Tennesseans and see how everyday life was lived on the frontier.
Talks & Storytelling
Enjoy short presentations throughout the day on Tennessee’s journey to statehood, the legacy of John Sevier, and Appalachian lifeways.
National Park Rangers: Celebrating Tennessee!
Rangers from Great Smoky Mountains National Park will be on-site with fun, educational “Celebrating Tennessee” games and activities for all ages. Stop by to play, learn, and explore our shared heritage.
Family Activities Throughout the Day
From heritage games to hands-on crafts, interactive experiences await visitors of all ages in the heart of the historic grounds.
Be a Part of It — Traditional Craft Vendors Wanted!
We are seeking craft vendors and demonstrators who specialize in traditional or heritage-based techniques. This is a curated event focused on skills that reflect the frontier spirit and Appalachian lifeways.
Apply here: https://form.jotform.com/251014923975156