On August 15 and 16, 2025, the Historic Gatlinburg Inn will host the Gatlinburg Songwriters Festival, an intimate, soul stirring celebration of songcraft in the Great Smoky Mountains.
Surrounded by moss clad ridges and postcard perfect mountain views, this boutique festival brings fans face to face with the Nashville writers behind multi platinum hits. With limited seating and a connection between artist and listener like nowhere else, it is music lover magic.
Festival Highlights & Performer Snapshots
Friday, August 15
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Registration & Meet & Greet Dinner (2:00–5:30 pm)
Kick off the weekend with a warm dinner in the Davy Crockett Room, a great chance to mingle with artists and fellow fans. -
5:15–6:15 pm – Songwriter Rounds
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Jerry Salley – Grammy nominee and Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame inductee with credits for Reba McEntire and timeless bluegrass gospel gems.
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Bill Whyte – Known for witty, twisted songs like “Retired” that cross multiple genres.
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Victoria Venier – A dynamic vocalist in the crowd favorite trio Hits & Grins, also part of vocal powerhouse TNT.
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Lauren Mascitti – Warm, engaging performer and co host of late night rounds.
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6:15–7:15 pm – Second Round
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Steve Dean – Hitmaker for Rodney Atkins, Alabama, Reba McEntire and more.
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Karyn Williams – Number one songwriter, author and Billboard featured “Best Bet.”
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Brian White – Touring veteran with Christian rock roots and songwriting chops.
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Irene Kelley – Acclaimed bluegrass songwriter for legends like Ricky Skaggs and Loretta Lynn.
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7:15–8:00 pm – Third Round
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Danny Wells – Writer of George Strait’s “Check Yes Or No” and Rascal Flatts’ “These Days.”
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Will Nance – Multi platinum writer whose first number one was George Strait’s “Round About Way.”
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Bobby Tomberlin – His songs have been recorded by Faith Hill, Dolly Parton, Blake Shelton and more.
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8:15–10:00 pm – Late Night Open Rounds & Jam Sessions
Hosted in rotating hotel suites by Danny Wells, Steve Dean and Lauren Mascitti. Later, join impromptu lobby or porch jam sessions with Irene Kelley.
Saturday, August 16
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9:45–10:30 am – Breakfast Round
A cozy morning session with Will Nance, Irene Kelley and Jerry Salley. -
11:00 am–1:00 pm – Songwriter’s Panel
Featuring Bobby Tomberlin, Steve Dean and Victoria Venier. -
3:00–4:00 pm – Open Mic Rounds
Step into the songwriters’ circle and share your own tunes or simply listen in. -
4:00–4:45 pm – Hits n Grins
A lighthearted round with Steve Dean, Victoria Venier and Bill Whyte. -
4:45–5:45 pm – Songwriter Round
More storytelling and songcraft from Brian White, Lauren Mascitti, Danny Wells and Karyn Williams. -
5:45–7:30 pm – Dinner Break
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7:30–9:00 pm – The Bobby Tomberlin Show
A fireside performance in the Pioneer Room featuring Bobby Tomberlin with special guest Bill Whyte.
Showcase for Rising Talent
The festival also includes a special “New Horizons” round featuring emerging songwriters who represent the next generation of Nashville talent. These writers have been selected to perform alongside the pros, giving audiences a chance to discover new favorites before they hit the big time.
Tickets and Lodging
General admission tickets are $35 plus a small processing fee, totaling about $38. Tickets are limited, so securing them early is the best way to guarantee your spot.
Guests can also book rooms at the Historic Gatlinburg Inn for the ultimate festival experience. Be sure to mention the Songwriters Festival special when you call to reserve.
Why You Should Attend
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Hear unplugged stories from the creators themselves in an intimate setting.
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Enjoy direct access through Q&A sessions, open mics, breakfast rounds and fireside performances.
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Soak in the mountain vibes and small town charm that make Gatlinburg unforgettable.
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Discover tomorrow’s hitmakers in the New Horizons showcase.
If you love music that tells a story, you will love the Gatlinburg Songwriters Festival. This two day event is a rare chance to connect with the writers behind the songs you love while surrounded by the beauty of the Smokies. Make plans for August 15–16 at the Historic Gatlinburg Inn and get your tickets today at https://gatlinburgsongwriters.com.
