Upcoming events.
Frontier Christmas Tours - Daytime
Experience the magic of the season with our Frontier Christmas Tours Daytimeโa festive journey through history at Rocky Mount. Enjoy a guided tour of our beautifully decorated historic halls, where holiday cheer and time-honored traditions come together in a celebration of Christmas past and present.
Event Highlights:
โข Festive Guided Tours: Explore our historic site adorned with seasonal decorations and twinkling lights, as knowledgeable guides share captivating stories of Christmas traditions and local history.
โข Holiday Storytelling: Listen to enchanting tales of Christmas from eras gone by, as our storyteller brings the spirit of the season to life with heartwarming narratives.
โข Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Designed for all ages, this tour invites families, history enthusiasts, and holiday lovers to come together and celebrate the joy of Christmas.
Plan Your Visit:
Mark your calendar and join us for a day of Christmas magic and historic charm. For more details, tour times, and directions, please visit our website or contact our event team. Embrace the spirit of the season and create lasting memories on our Day-time Christmas Tours at Rocky Mount State Historic Site!
Frontier Christmas Tours - Daytime
Experience the magic of the season with our Frontier Christmas Tours Daytimeโa festive journey through history at Rocky Mount. Enjoy a guided tour of our beautifully decorated historic halls, where holiday cheer and time-honored traditions come together in a celebration of Christmas past and present.
Event Highlights:
โข Festive Guided Tours: Explore our historic site adorned with seasonal decorations and twinkling lights, as knowledgeable guides share captivating stories of Christmas traditions and local history.
โข Holiday Storytelling: Listen to enchanting tales of Christmas from eras gone by, as our storyteller brings the spirit of the season to life with heartwarming narratives.
โข Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Designed for all ages, this tour invites families, history enthusiasts, and holiday lovers to come together and celebrate the joy of Christmas.
Plan Your Visit:
Mark your calendar and join us for a day of Christmas magic and historic charm. For more details, tour times, and directions, please visit our website or contact our event team. Embrace the spirit of the season and create lasting memories on our Day-time Christmas Tours at Rocky Mount State Historic Site!
Frontier Christmas Tours - Daytime
Experience the magic of the season with our Frontier Christmas Tours Daytimeโa festive journey through history at Rocky Mount. Enjoy a guided tour of our beautifully decorated historic halls, where holiday cheer and time-honored traditions come together in a celebration of Christmas past and present.
Event Highlights:
โข Festive Guided Tours: Explore our historic site adorned with seasonal decorations and twinkling lights, as knowledgeable guides share captivating stories of Christmas traditions and local history.
โข Holiday Storytelling: Listen to enchanting tales of Christmas from eras gone by, as our storyteller brings the spirit of the season to life with heartwarming narratives.
โข Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Designed for all ages, this tour invites families, history enthusiasts, and holiday lovers to come together and celebrate the joy of Christmas.
Plan Your Visit:
Mark your calendar and join us for a day of Christmas magic and historic charm. For more details, tour times, and directions, please visit our website or contact our event team. Embrace the spirit of the season and create lasting memories on our Day-time Christmas Tours at Rocky Mount State Historic Site!
Candlelight Christmas - Night-time
Step into a magical holiday evening at Candlelight Christmas โ Night-time. Experience the enchantment of our historic site aglow with the soft light of candles, as you wander through a series of captivating storytelling stops and festive surprises.
Event Highlights:
โข Candlelit Historic Tours: Explore Rocky Mount after dark, where the gentle glow of candlelight reveals the timeless charm of our historic halls and outdoor spaces.
โข Storytelling Circuit: Journey across the site and listen to a variety of Christmas talesโeach stop unveils a unique story that blends local history with holiday magic.
โข Christmas Village Experience: Visit our festive village area featuring Father Christmas, browse vendors offering seasonal treats and unique gifts, and immerse yourself in the spirit of the season.
โข Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Enjoy an enchanting evening designed for families and friends to create lasting holiday memories in a historic setting.
Plan Your Visit:
Mark your calendar and join us for a night of wonder and festive storytelling. Embrace the warmth and joy of Candlelight Christmas โ Night-time at Rocky Mount State Historic Site, where history and holiday cheer come together under the stars.
** First tour goes out at 4:15PM, Last tour goes out at 8:30PM, Tours last approximately 90 minutes
Celebrate the seasonโjoin us for Candlelight Christmas โ Night-time!
Candlelight Christmas - Night-time
Step into a magical holiday evening at Candlelight Christmas โ Night-time. Experience the enchantment of our historic site aglow with the soft light of candles, as you wander through a series of captivating storytelling stops and festive surprises.
Event Highlights:
โข Candlelit Historic Tours: Explore Rocky Mount after dark, where the gentle glow of candlelight reveals the timeless charm of our historic halls and outdoor spaces.
โข Storytelling Circuit: Journey across the site and listen to a variety of Christmas talesโeach stop unveils a unique story that blends local history with holiday magic.
โข Christmas Village Experience: Visit our festive village area featuring Father Christmas, browse vendors offering seasonal treats and unique gifts, and immerse yourself in the spirit of the season.
โข Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Enjoy an enchanting evening designed for families and friends to create lasting holiday memories in a historic setting.
Plan Your Visit:
Mark your calendar and join us for a night of wonder and festive storytelling. Embrace the warmth and joy of Candlelight Christmas โ Night-time at Rocky Mount State Historic Site, where history and holiday cheer come together under the stars.
** First tour goes out at 4:15PM, Last tour goes out at 8:30PM, Tours last approximately 90 minutes
Celebrate the seasonโjoin us for Candlelight Christmas โ Night-time!
Behind the Scenes Tour: Hidden Gems of the Southwest Territory
Go beyond the regular tour for a limited-access look at restricted spaces, selected artifacts, staff-only stories, and hidden details from Rocky Mountโs Southwest Territory story.
Duration: 2 hours. Group size: Max 10 guests.
Haunting on the Mount
Ghost stories, folklore, and an October evening at Rocky Mount. Join us Friday, October 23 or Saturday, October 24, 2026. Timed departures run every 20 minutes from 6:00 to 9:00 PM Eastern, with up to 13 guests per group. Plan for 45โ50 minutes; the 9:00 PM group finishes around 9:50 PM.
Blacksmith Workshop
๐๐ก๐ ๐๐ฅ๐๐๐ค๐ฌ๐ฆ๐ข๐ญ๐ก ๐๐จ๐ซ๐ค๐ฌ๐ก๐จ๐ฉ ๐ข๐ฌ ๐๐๐๐!
Join us for a hands-on blacksmith workshop at Rocky Mount. Students age 9 and up learn basic and beginner blacksmithing techniques. The session emphasizes 18th-century techniques with modern and colonial methods and guides participants through creating modern metalwork in the same vein as they did 250 years ago.
What to expect:
Working with a fully functional forge lead by Rocky Mountโs established Blacksmith.
Learn how to craft unique creations in a similar vein to those from the 1700s.
Gates will open 30 minutes prior to class start
Please allot enough time in order to get checked in and meet your instructor.
What to know before registration:
Participants must be age 9+ for safety purposes
Closed-toed shoes required.
We recommend clothing that is easy to move in.
If the weather does not co-operate and the workshop must be rescheduled; you will be refunded in full.
Pre-registration is required due to limited workspace and small class size. Registration closes noon the Friday before.
Harvest Festival
๐ ๐จ ๐ฑ๐๐๐๐๐๐ ๐ฉ๐๐๐ ๐๐ ๐ป๐๐๐: Experience the charm of the 18th century. From blacksmithing to fireplace cooking, immerse yourself in the traditions of yesteryears.
๐ต ๐ฏ๐๐๐๐๐๐ ๐ด๐๐๐๐ ๐๐๐: Let the rhythms of live music set the perfect backdrop for your autumnal adventure.
๐ ๐บ๐๐๐๐ ๐๐๐ ๐บ๐๐๐๐๐: Delight in the flavors of freshly pressed cider, warm biscuits, and homemade apple butter. It's a taste trip you won't forget!
๐จ ๐ฏ๐๐๐ ๐-๐ถ๐ ๐ญ๐๐: Whether it's colonial toys & games, Autumn inspired crafts, or engaging in good old-fashioned sack races, there's joy around every corner.
๐๏ธ ๐ณ๐๐๐๐ ๐จ๐๐๐๐๐๐๐ & ๐ฝ๐๐๐ ๐๐๐: Discover unique crafts, local goods, and handmade treasures perfect for gifting or treating yourself.
๐ ๐ฐ๐๐๐๐๐๐๐๐๐๐ ๐พ๐๐๐๐๐๐๐๐: Come visit our blacksmith for an educational journey through time!
๐๐จ๐ง'๐ญ ๐๐๐ญ ๐ญ๐ก๐ ๐ ๐ฎ๐ง ๐๐ญ๐จ๐ฉ ๐ญ๐ก๐๐ซ๐! ๐๐๐๐ข๐ญ๐ข๐จ๐ง๐๐ฅ ๐๐๐ญ๐ข๐ฏ๐ข๐ญ๐ข๐๐ฌ ๐ญ๐ก๐ข๐ฌ ๐ฒ๐๐๐ซ ๐ข๐ง๐๐ฅ๐ฎ๐๐:
๐ท๐๐๐๐๐๐ ๐พ๐๐๐! - 5th Annual Pumpkin Carving Contest, limit 15 spots per day, only $15! A classic Jack o' lantern Pumpkin, and some basic carving tools are included! Contestants are encouraged to bring their own. Winners will be announced each day!
๐ท๐๐๐๐๐๐ ๐ท๐๐๐๐๐๐๐! - For only $5 we will supply you with a pumpkin, paint, paint brushes and tools, a painting smock, and a spot for your pumpkin to dry until you leave the festival. Create a decoration to enjoy all season long!
๐๐ข๐๐ค๐๐ญ ๐๐๐ญ๐๐ข๐ฅ๐ฌ:
- Adults (18-54) Single Day: $12 / 2-Day: $18
- Seniors (55+) Single Day: $10 / 2-Day: $15
- Youth (5-17) Single Day: $8 / 2-Day: $12
- Little Ones (5 & Under) & Members: Enter Free!
Celebrate the harvest, savor the seasonโjoin us at the Rocky Mount Harvest Festival!
Big Red Barn Yard & Craft Sale
Big Red Barn Yard & Craft Sale | Friday, October 9, 2026, noonโ6 PM; Saturday, October 10, 2026, 8 AMโ5 PM. Household treasures, books, dรฉcor, collectibles, crafts and unexpected finds. Come early for the best selection. Once itโs gone, itโs gone! Across the road from Rocky Mount. A portion of proceeds supports Rocky Mount historic preservation.
Hearthside Cooking Workshop
Join a hands-on hearthside cooking workshop in a historic kitchen led by colonial culinary interpreters.
Take part in learning basic cooking methods by preparing and tasting foods cooked over an open fire. The session compares 18th-century techniques with modern methods and guides participants through making things like biscuits, bacon, succotash, and apple pie.* (Menu subject to change at any time due to produce availability)
The best part? Getting to eat the foods you've cooked over a hot hearth!
Pre-registration is required due to limited workspace and small class size
Behind the Scenes Tour: Hidden Gems of the Southwest Territory
Go beyond the regular tour for a limited-access look at restricted spaces, selected artifacts, staff-only stories, and hidden details from Rocky Mountโs Southwest Territory story.
Duration: 2 hours. Group size: Max 10 guests.
Overmountain Victory Trail Association Day
September 24, 2026: OVTA reenactors share the Overmountain Menโs story at Rocky Mount, where Patriot militia camped in 1780. Gates open at 6:15 PM; the story runs 7:00โ8:00 PM. A $5 donation is encouraged. Bring a chair. The program is planned for the barn field, with an auditorium rain location.
First Families Reunion
First Families Reunion is a developing America 250 weekend at Rocky Mount for family history, early Tennessee stories, living history, genealogy connections, and time together where Tennessee began. Full program details and registration information will be announced as planning continues.
Learn more: www.rockymountmuseum.com/first-families-reunion
Behind the Scenes Tour: Hidden Gems of the Southwest Territory
Go beyond the regular tour for a limited-access look at restricted spaces, selected artifacts, staff-only stories, and hidden details from Rocky Mountโs Southwest Territory story.
Duration: 2 hours. Group size: Max 10 guests.
Twilight on the Mount - Evening Nature Walk
Enjoy an easy evening stroll through Rocky Mount's natural trails. Learn about some native species and the historical significance of them while enjoying a relaxing walk. This hike is considered beginner. Our trails are natural, and are not paved.
A calm evening stroll away from the hustle and bustle of the city
An informative talk, where you are welcome to ask questions
Close-toed shoes are recommended for our natural trail.
Learn about native trees, plants, and animals as you walk through Rocky Mount's newly uncovered beginner trails.
Combined the trails are roughly 1 mile of natural terrain, with about .5 mile of paved sidewalk.
Blacksmith Workshop
๐๐ก๐ ๐๐ฅ๐๐๐ค๐ฌ๐ฆ๐ข๐ญ๐ก ๐๐จ๐ซ๐ค๐ฌ๐ก๐จ๐ฉ ๐ข๐ฌ ๐๐๐๐!
Join us for a hands-on blacksmith workshop at Rocky Mount. Students age 9 and up learn basic and beginner blacksmithing techniques. The session emphasizes 18th-century techniques with modern and colonial methods and guides participants through creating modern metalwork in the same vein as they did 250 years ago.
What to expect:
Working with a fully functional forge lead by Rocky Mountโs established Blacksmith.
Learn how to craft unique creations in a similar vein to those from the 1700s.
Gates will open 30 minutes prior to class start
Please allot enough time in order to get checked in and meet your instructor.
What to know before registration:
Participants must be age 9+ for safety purposes
Closed-toed shoes required.
We recommend clothing that is easy to move in.
If the weather does not co-operate and the workshop must be rescheduled; you will be refunded in full.
Pre-registration is required due to limited workspace and small class size. Registration closes noon the Friday before.
Twilight on the Mount - Evening Nature Walk
Enjoy an easy evening stroll through Rocky Mount's natural trails. Learn about some native species and the historical significance of them while enjoying a relaxing walk. This hike is considered beginner. Our trails are natural, and are not paved.
A calm evening stroll away from the hustle and bustle of the city
An informative talk, where you are welcome to ask questions
Close-toed shoes are recommended for our natural trail.
Learn about native trees, plants, and animals as you walk through Rocky Mount's newly uncovered beginner trails.
Combined the trails are roughly 1 mile of natural terrain, with about .5 mile of paved sidewalk.
Behind the Scenes Tour: Hidden Gems of the Southwest Territory
Go beyond the regular tour for a limited-access look at restricted spaces, selected artifacts, staff-only stories, and hidden details from Rocky Mountโs Southwest Territory story.
Duration: 2 hours. Group size: Max 10 guests.
Twilight on the Mount - Evening Nature Walk
Enjoy an easy evening stroll through Rocky Mount's natural trails. Learn about some native species and the historical significance of them while enjoying a relaxing walk. This hike is considered beginner. Our trails are natural, and are not paved.
A calm evening stroll away from the hustle and bustle of the city
An informative talk, where you are welcome to ask questions
Close-toed shoes are recommended for our natural trail.
Learn about native trees, plants, and animals as you walk through Rocky Mount's newly uncovered beginner trails.
Combined the trails are roughly 1 mile of natural terrain, with about .5 mile of paved sidewalk.
Blacksmith Workshop
๐๐ก๐ ๐๐ฅ๐๐๐ค๐ฌ๐ฆ๐ข๐ญ๐ก ๐๐จ๐ซ๐ค๐ฌ๐ก๐จ๐ฉ ๐ข๐ฌ ๐๐๐๐!
Join us for a hands-on blacksmith workshop at Rocky Mount. Students age 9 and up learn basic and beginner blacksmithing techniques. The session emphasizes 18th-century techniques with modern and colonial methods and guides participants through creating modern metalwork in the same vein as they did 250 years ago.
What to expect:
Working with a fully functional forge lead by Rocky Mountโs established Blacksmith.
Learn how to craft unique creations in a similar vein to those from the 1700s.
Gates will open 30 minutes prior to class start
Please allot enough time in order to get checked in and meet your instructor.
What to know before registration:
Participants must be age 9+ for safety purposes
Closed-toed shoes required.
We recommend clothing that is easy to move in.
If the weather does not co-operate and the workshop must be rescheduled; you will be refunded in full.
Pre-registration is required due to limited workspace and small class size. Registration closes noon the Friday before.
Twilight on the Mount - Evening Nature Walk
Enjoy an easy evening stroll through Rocky Mount's natural trails. Learn about some native species and the historical significance of them while enjoying a relaxing walk. This hike is considered beginner. Our trails are natural, and are not paved.
A calm evening stroll away from the hustle and bustle of the city
An informative talk, where you are welcome to ask questions
Close-toed shoes are recommended for our natural trail.
Learn about native trees, plants, and animals as you walk through Rocky Mount's newly uncovered beginner trails.
Combined the trails are roughly 1 mile of natural terrain, with about .5 mile of paved sidewalk.
Rocky Mount Colonial Independence Celebration: America 250
Join us for the Rocky Mount Independence Celebration: The Road to 250โa vibrant day dedicated not only to honoring American independence but also serving as a celebratory finale journey of Americaโs 250th anniversary. This family-friendly event offers a unique blend of living history, garden tours, and engaging demonstrationsโperfect for history enthusiasts, nature lovers, families, and anyone looking to experience a memorable Fourth of July.
Event Highlights:
โข Historical Reading of the Constitution & Decorating the Liberty Tree : Step into 1776 by joining us for annual reading of the Constitution by Rocky Mountโs Governor Blount and experience our nationโs journey to independence. Join us in a reading of Thomas Paineโs famous poem, followed by an invitation to decorate the Liberty Tree here at Rocky Mount.
โข Kidโs Sack Race & More! : Plenty of activities and crafts will be available for families. A Kidโs Sack Race and two specialty crafts will be held each once in the morning and afternoon. While we have plenty of all-day fun for kids of all ages. Historical toys & games will be available from open to close.
โข Historical Tours: Step back in time with live demonstrations of Revolutionary times and costumed interpreters bringing 18th-century America to life.
โข Explore Our Gardens: Enjoy learning about Colonial gardening practices with our historic gardens, where youโll discover colonial-era horticulture and the natural beauty that has been an enduring part of our heritage.
While this day does not mark the entirety of our journey thus far, it is an exciting milestone as we continue on the road to 250. Whether youโre a lifelong history buff or simply seeking a fun, meaningful way to celebrate Independence Day, this event offers something for everyone. Bring your family, invite friends, and experience the pride and joy of Americaโs heritage as we set the stage for the next 250 years of freedom.
Plan Your Visit:
Mark your calendar and be part of a celebration that honors the legacy of freedom and the spirit of community while charting our ongoing journey to Americaโs 250th anniversary.
Celebrate history, celebrate freedomโjoin us at the Rocky Mount Independence Celebration: America 250!
Annual Membership Meeting
Annual Membership Meeting
11:00 AM 12:00 PM
Rocky Mount State Historic Site (map)
Annual Membership Meeting at Rocky Mount
Date: June 27, 2026
Location: Auditorium, Rocky Mount State Historic Site
Dear esteemed members,
We are excited to invite you to our Annual Membership Meeting at the historic Rocky Mount State Site. This event promises to be a wonderful opportunity to gather as a community and celebrate our shared love for history and preservation.
Key Event Details:
Date: June 27, 2026
Time: 11:00 AM to Noon
Venue: Auditorium, Rocky Mount State Historic Site
Meeting Agenda:
1. Welcome address by President David Doan
2. Presentation on the significant achievements of the past year
4. Announcement and Recommendation of new additions to our Board of Directors
6. Closing remarks and acknowledgments
RSVP:
Thank you for your ongoing support, and we look forward to seeing you on June 27th.
Warm regards,
Cody Boring - Executive Director
Rocky Mount State Historic Site
Behind the Scenes Tour: Hidden Gems of the Southwest Territory
Go beyond the regular tour for a limited-access look at restricted spaces, selected artifacts, staff-only stories, and hidden details from Rocky Mountโs Southwest Territory story.
Duration: 2 hours. Group size: Max 10 guests.
Fathers Day Weekend at the Forge - Blacksmith Workshop
๐๐ก๐ ๐๐ฅ๐๐๐ค๐ฌ๐ฆ๐ข๐ญ๐ก ๐๐จ๐ซ๐ค๐ฌ๐ก๐จ๐ฉ ๐ข๐ฌ ๐๐๐๐!
Join us for a hands-on blacksmith workshop at Rocky Mount. Students age 9 and up learn basic and beginner blacksmithing techniques. The session emphasizes 18th-century techniques with modern and colonial methods and guides participants through creating modern metalwork in the same vein as they did 250 years ago.
What to expect:
Working with a fully functional forge lead by Rocky Mountโs established Blacksmith.
Learn how to craft unique creations in a similar vein to those from the 1700s.
Gates will open 30 minutes prior to class start
Please allot enough time in order to get checked in and meet your instructor.
What to know before registration:
Participants must be age 9+ for safety purposes
Closed-toed shoes required.
We recommend clothing that is easy to move in.
If the weather does not co-operate and the workshop must be rescheduled; you will be refunded in full.
Pre-registration is required due to limited workspace and small class size. Registration closes noon the Friday before.
Flag Day Weekend Celebration
Join us for the Rocky Mountโs Flag Day Weekend Celebration! Whether your interest lies in history, a day out with the family
Event Highlights:
โข Historical Presentation on the History of the American Flag: Be transported through time with a walking tour presentation through the flags that lead to the 50 stars and stripes we know today!
โข Historical Presentation on Women of the Frontier: Step into the Colonial Era and learn about the important part that women played at the time. Explore how women have shaped our nation since its inception.
โข Historical Tours: Step back in time with live demonstrations of Revolutionary times and costumed interpreters bringing 18th-century America to life.
250 Speaker Series: Thomas Batchelor
On the evening of March 27, 2026, Rocky Mount State Historic Site will host the regional kickoff of Americaโs 250th anniversary and Tennesseeโs 230th birthday celebrations. Dr. James P. Byrd of Vanderbilt University will deliver the inaugural lecture in Rocky Mountโs first-ever lecture series, exploring how faith shaped life on the American frontier.
Presented in partnership with Sullivan County, the Bristol Historical Association, and King Institute for Faith & Culture at King University, this evening marks the official beginning of a year-long series of programs, lectures, and commemorative events celebrating the founding story of Tennesseeโa story that begins right here.
Rocky Mount served as the capital of the Southwest Territory from 1790 to 1792, where Governor William Blountโappointed by President George Washingtonโgoverned the frontier that would become the state of Tennessee. The 15-acre site is part of Tennesseeโs oldest documented farm, with roots stretching back to 1775.
Doors open at 5:30 PM with a reception. The program begins at 6:00 PM and includes welcome remarks, the lecture, a moderated discussion, and an evening reception. The event is free and open to the public.
Early Frontier Days & Colonial Trade Faire
Experience life on the early American frontier at Early Frontier Days, presented by the Rocky Mount Historical Association & Overmountain Victory Trail Association (OVTA)! This immersive living history event brings the 18th century to life with hands-on demonstrations, engaging presentations, and dramatic storytelling.
NEW! This year will also feature a full Colonial Trade Fair. We have asked Sutlers from all over to join us this year in showing off their honed historical crafts. We hope to build upon this every year hereafter, join us in forging something new from our rich past!
Event Highlights:
โข Living History Demonstrations: Watch weaving, blacksmithing, and other frontier trades in action.
โข Militia Encampment: Discover 18th-century military life and learn survival skills.
โข Historical Presentations: Uncover the Overmountain Menโs pivotal role in the American Revolution.
โข Explore Historic Buildings: Meet costumed interpreters inside the Cobb House and original cabins.
โข Storytelling by the Fire: Enjoy captivating tales of frontier life under the stars.
This family-friendly event is perfect for history lovers of all ages. Come walk in the footsteps of pioneers, soldiers, and storytellers as we celebrate the spirit of the early frontier!
Woolly Days & Colonial Gardening Day
Join us for the Wolly Days and Colonial Gardening Day Festival, a captivating day that blends colonial heritage with the beauty of our historic gardens. This family-friendly celebration offers an immersive experience where history, horticulture, and community fun come together for a memorable day out.
Event Highlights:
โข Colonial Garden Tours: Wander through our beautifully restored gardens as you discover the secrets of colonial-era horticulture. Enjoy guided tours that reveal the timeless beauty and rich history of these landscapes.
โข Historical Reenactments: Experience living history with colonial-era demonstrations and costumed interpreters who bring the past to life through engaging storytelling and interactive displays.
โข Interactive Workshops: Participate in hands-on activities, from traditional gardening techniques to craft sessions inspired by colonial life, providing both educational and creative experiences for all ages.
โข Live Music & Entertainment: Delight in live performances that capture the spirit of colonial America, including period music and folk performances that enhance the festive atmosphere.
โข Local Food & Artisan Vendors: Savor seasonal treats and artisanal fare from local vendors, offering a taste of tradition while you explore the gardens and enjoy the festivities.
Whether youโre passionate about history, nature, or simply looking for a fun day with family and friends, the Wolly Days and Colonial Gardens Festival promises a unique blend of education, entertainment, and community spirit. Embrace the charm of the past and celebrate the beauty of colonial gardens in a setting that inspires and delights.
Twilight on the Mount - Evening Nature Walk
Enjoy an easy evening stroll through Rocky Mount's natural trails. Learn about some native species and the historical significance of them while enjoying a relaxing walk. This hike is considered beginner. Our trails are natural, and are not paved.
A calm evening stroll away from the hustle and bustle of the city
An informative talk, where you are welcome to ask questions
Close-toed shoes are recommended for our natural trail.
Learn about native trees, plants, and animals as you walk through Rocky Mount's newly uncovered beginner trails.
Combined the trails are roughly 1 mile of natural terrain, with about .5 mile of paved sidewalk.
America 250 Free Family Day โ Free Entry
AMERICA 250 KICKOFF
at Rocky Mount
Rocky Mount and Sullivan County Invite Our Communities to Celebrate
FREE FAMILY DAY
Saturday, April 18
Gates Open 10 a.m.
Free Admission โข Free Parking
Crafts & Games โข Living History
Blacksmithing โข Candle Dipping
Music โข Free Popcorn
Free Apple Butter Tastings
Walking Tours
Tennessee Starts Here. Come see where.
America 250 โข Sullivan County 247 โข Tennessee 230
Event Highlights:
โข Colonial Tours: Enjoy guided tours that reveal the timeless beauty and rich history of these landscapes. Take your time and ask questions of our seasoned interpreters as they tell you the story of Sullivan County nearly 250 years ago!
โข Kidโs Crafts: Have the family create memories together at our multiple craft stations scattered throughout the site.
โข Interactive Workshops: Observe artisans at work, such as our Blacksmith and Master Gardeners. Ask questions about their techniques and see how life really was on the frontier.
โข Local Food & Apple Butter: Savor seasonal treats and artisanal fare from local vendors, offering a taste of tradition while you enjoy the festivities. FREE fruit butter samples will be available!
Whether itโs enjoying a calm picnic in the breeze, taking tours around the site, visiting with the sheep and rabbits, or meeting with your community; Sullivan Co Family Day is sure to be a day for the books!
Sullivan Co Media Day
America 250 and Sullivan County 247 are officially kicking off the celebration with a new chapter in our rich local history. Join us as Rocky Mount State Historic Site hosts Sullivan Countyโs official 250 anniversary initiative. The event boasts multiple speakers from all over Sullivan County as they highlight what makes our local community so fantastic.
Blacksmith Workshop
๐๐ก๐ ๐๐ฅ๐๐๐ค๐ฌ๐ฆ๐ข๐ญ๐ก ๐๐จ๐ซ๐ค๐ฌ๐ก๐จ๐ฉ ๐ข๐ฌ ๐๐๐๐!
Join us for a hands-on blacksmith workshop at Rocky Mount. Students age 9 and up learn basic and beginner blacksmithing techniques. The session emphasizes 18th-century techniques with modern and colonial methods and guides participants through creating modern metalwork in the same vein as they did 250 years ago.
What to expect:
Working with a fully functional forge lead by Rocky Mountโs established Blacksmith.
Learn how to craft unique creations in a similar vein to those from the 1700s.
Gates will open 30 minutes prior to class start
Please allot enough time in order to get checked in and meet your instructor.
What to know before registration:
Participants must be age 9+ for safety purposes
Closed-toed shoes required.
We recommend clothing that is easy to move in.
If the weather does not co-operate and the workshop must be rescheduled; you will be refunded in full.
Pre-registration is required due to limited workspace and small class size. Registration closes noon the Friday before.
Hearthside Cooking Workshop
Join a hands-on hearthside cooking workshop in a historic kitchen led by colonial culinary interpreters.
Take part in learning basic cooking methods by preparing and tasting foods cooked over an open fire. The session compares 18th-century techniques with modern methods and guides participants through making things like biscuits, bacon, succotash, and apple pie.* (Menu subject to change at any time due to produce availability)
The best part? Getting to eat the foods you've cooked over a hot hearth!
Pre-registration is required due to limited workspace and small class size