Bigfoot smiles for a photo at the Smoky Mountain Bigfoot Festival; image submitted

TOWNSEND, TN - Get ready to party in the Smokies the first weekend of May - it’s going to be a beautiful birthday bash for the 6th annual Smoky Mountain Bigfoot Festival from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, May 2, 2026.

The family and pet-friendly festival is happening at the Greater Smokies Event Grounds adjacent to the Blount Partnership Townsend Visitor’s Center, 7930 E. Lamar Alexander Pkwy, Townsend, TN 37882.

New this year - spectators will get to watch trained athletes, and Bigfoot, compete head-to-head in dramatic feats of strength.

“This year, we’re throwing a birthday party Bigfoot would be proud of,” festival organizer Brian Johnston said. “Along with our beloved festival staples - guest speakers, live music, food trucks, vendors, and contests - guests can expect party hats, sweet treats, games and a few surprises…including a possible appearance from the birthday legend himself.”

Highlights Include:

● Bigfoot-themed birthday games & giveaways
● A Bigfoot-sized birthday card for fans to sign
● Special edition merchandise to mark the occasion
● Photo ops with Party Sasquatch
● A sweet celebration moment — complete with cupcakes, candles, and confetti

Back by popular demand:

● SlashSquatch
● Bigfoot Battle Royale Wrestling
● Wood Carving & Auction
● Live Music
● Special Event Add-on: Dinner + Special Guest Meet & Greet - Very Important Believer

Experience
○ This ticket includes admission to the VIB (Very Important Believer) Meet & Greet (hosted at Bigfoot in the Smokies) on Friday, May 1st, 2025. Your VIB ticket includes dinner and beverages with our festival VIPs, an exclusive VIB shirt, and hopefully the time of your life!

As part of the festivities, runners and walkers can hit the pavement for the Smoky Mountain Bigfoot 5K and 1-Mile Fun Run, both starting at Peaceful Side Social in Townsend. The 1-Mile Fun Run begins at 8:50 a.m., followed by the 5K at 9 a.m., offering a scenic course set against the backdrop of the Great Smoky Mountains. The races combine outdoor adventure with playful Bigfoot lore, complete with themed swag, on-course support and the possibility of a legendary “Squatch sighting."

Registration for the races can be found here.

Parking is available for purchase in advance ($25) and is located on the festival grounds adjacent to the entry gate. If parking on the festival grounds doesn’t sell out before the event, you will be able to purchase parking day-of (cash or card). All proceeds for parking benefit the Townsend Area Volunteer Fire Department.

Tickets start at $15 (plus processing fees) and can be found at the link here.

More information can be found at www.thebigfest.com.