Sycamore Shoals State Historic Park Heralds the Holidays with Special Events
Wednesday, November 12, 2008 | 10:18am
ELIZABETHTON, Tenn. – Sycamore Shoals State Historic Park in Elizabethton will highlight a series of special events throughout November and December, blending a festive holiday spirit with both educational opportunities and traditional entertainment. The events are being held in partnership with the Friends of Sycamore Shoals State Historic Park.
“The holidays are a delightful time of year and we are looking forward to working with our Friends group to bring the spirit of the holidays to life,” said Park Manager Jennifer Bauer. “We have exciting opportunities for all ages and we encourage everyone to come out and join us.”
Open to the public, these events include:
Christmas Craft Show – Nov. 14-16
Don’t miss this tremendously popular craft extravaganza just in time for Christmas. Nearly 50 local craft exhibits will be on hand for special demonstrations with a holiday twist. This three-day event begins Friday at 10 a.m., Saturday at 8 a.m. and Sunday at 1 p.m., ending at 4:30 p.m. each day.
Thanksgiving Garrison – Nov. 22-23
Park visitors will get a glimpse into Tennessee’s past when Hardin’s Rangers stage an 18th century Thanksgiving at Fort Watauga. Food and a variety of demonstrations will be available on both days from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Winterfest Christmas Tree Exhibit and Art Show – Begins Nov. 30
With its annual Winterfest theme, this event opens with a reception on Nov. 30 to view decorated trees, artwork and an opportunity to meet the featured artists. Co-hosted by the Watauga Valley Art League, the exhibit features Fraser fir trees decorated by local organizations with hand-made ornaments. The Nov. 30 opening reception begins at 1:30 p.m. Exhibit hours through the month of December are Monday through Saturday from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and Sundays from 1 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Christmas at Carter Mansion – Dec. 5-6
From 6 p.m. to 9 p.m., visitors can spend an evening in this 18th century home built on the frontier around 1775, featuring beautiful interior craftsmanship and Christmas décor in the style of 1780. Costumed interpreters, candlelight decorations, refreshments and music will be highlights of the event.
Christmas Garrison at Fort Watauga – Dec. 6-7
Ring in the Christmas season with the Company of Overmountain Men as they celebrate with living history demonstrations of Colonial America. Event will be held from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily.
In conjunction with the holiday event series, Sycamore Shoals also will host its Traditional Art Workshops throughout November and December. Offering a unique opportunity to learn traditional and primitive art forms from expert instructors, these workshops require pre-registration in addition to an instructor and materials fee.
Sycamore Shoals State Historic Park attracts more than 305,000 people every year. The 85-acre site sits on the banks of the Watauga River where the Overmountain Men assembled in 1780 before marching to defeat the British in the Battle of Kings Mountain, a turning point in the Revolutionary War. The park features interpretive exhibits, events, a fitness trail and picnic facilities. It is located off U.S. Highway 321 in Elizabethton. For more information on park activities, call the park office at (423) 543-5808 or visit: www.tnstateparks.com/SycamoreShoals.
Fore more information about the Friends of Sycamore Shoals State Historic Park, visit www.sycamoreshoals.org or call (423) 543-5808.
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
November 12, 2008
Contact: Meg Lockhart (615) 253-1916