Young storytellers will share the stage with seasoned professionals at the 18th Annual Smoky Mountains Storytelling Festival, June 4-6, 2009, in Pigeon Forge. The June date is a departure for this event, which traditionally has taken place in February. Event organizers anticipate that moving to later in the year will allow more families to attend and more young tellers the opportunity to participate.

The National Youth Storytelling Showcase is a highlight of the award-winning event. Performers age 17 and younger from across the nation will participate in the Showcase, vying for the title of Grand Torchbearer. Professional storytellers, many with ties to the Applachian mountain area, will be featured in concert and conducting workshops.

Storytelling concerts and workshops will take palce at Belle Island Village. Passes for Storytelling activities (excluding Haunts 'n' Haints) are $10 for ages 18 and older, free to ages 17 and younger. Weekend passes are $25. Haunts 'n' Haints tickets are $5 per person. For ticket information call 865-429-7350. Smoky Mountain Storytelling Festival is a Great Smoky Mountains 75th Anniversary sanctioned event.

2009 Schedule of events