Great Smoky Mountains National Park hosts Holiday Homecoming event for visitors

The Associated Press

GATLINBURG, Tenn. - The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is hosting a Holiday Homecoming at the Oconaluftee (oh-kon-oh-LUHF'-tee) Visitor Center.

Park staff and volunteers will provide hands-on traditional craft demonstrations during the Saturday event, and visitors will have a chance to make a corn shuck doll, buzz button and cinnamon ornament.

There will also be an acoustic old-time jam session of holiday music.

The visitor centre will be decorated for the holidays and will include an exhibit on Christmas in the mountains. Hot apple cider and cookies will be served, and there will be a fire in the fireplace.

The Oconaluftee Visitor Center is located on Newfound Gap Road, two miles north of Cherokee, N.C. More information is available from the visitor centre at (828) 497-1904.