The Townsend Grains & Grits Festival

The Townsend Grains & Grits Festival

Don’t miss the 2025 Townsend Grains & Grits Festival, one of East Tennessee’s premier events celebrating Southern spirits, Tennessee whiskey, and gourmet Southern food. Held in the heart of Townsend, Tennessee — known as the Peaceful Side of the Smokies — this unique food and spirits festival features regional craft distillers, local chefs, and live entertainment.

Enjoy samples of Tennessee craft spirits including whiskey, bourbon, gin, moonshine, and other Southern favorites from some of the area’s top distilleries. Savor gourmet dishes, savory bites, and desserts from local restaurants, all while enjoying live music that captures the spirit of the Smoky Mountains.

Signature Experience — The Ring of Fire:
Food lovers won’t want to miss The Ring of Fire, hosted by renowned chef Michael Sullivan, also known as The Reverend of Fat. Around a blazing fire pit, five chefs will prepare whole roasted pig, lamb, chicken, and sausages, each paired with a different distillery and incorporating their craft spirit into every dish.

Event Schedule:

• 5:00 PM – Parking Opens

• 6:00 PM – Gates Open

• 7:00 PM to 8:30 PM – Live Music & Entertainment

• 9:00 PM – Event Closes

Key Details:

• Ages 21+ only

• Rain or shine event

• No refunds

Ticket Information:
Tickets go on sale Friday, August 1st at 8:00 AM. The ticket purchase link will be available here at that time.

Location Address:
Townsend Event Center
7930 E Lamar Alexander Parkway, Townsend, TN 37882