by: Hope McAlee Posted: Apr 21, 2026 / 12:27 PM EDT GATLINBURG, Tenn. (WATE) — Synchronous firefly season is approaching and the Great Smoky Mountains National Park has announced the dates for its annual viewing event and when guests can sign up for a chance to see the fireflies. From May 20-27, the GSMNP will be hosting its […]

by: Naomi Hillmer Posted: Apr 23, 2026 / 12:15 PM EDT TELLICO PLAINS, Tenn. (WATE)  — The Cherohala Skyway in Monroe County is gearing up for one of its busiest times of the year. The 43-mile road connecting Tennessee to North Carolina sees around 10 million people pass through each year, and the Monroe County Department of Tourism said summer travel is growing in popularity.   Smokies announces dates for synchronous firefly viewing “You get all […]

I’ve got a mountain of news to share this week. From record-breaking spending to some major event updates for the weekend of April 24th–26th, here’s what’s happening in my neck of the woods.