Each month there are activities in Gatlinburg TN that give you even more reasons to make a visit to the area but this year in the beginning of August, for the first time ever, there will be an event that is unlike any other. Starting on August 7th, 2008 the National Storytelling Conference will kick off at the Gatlinburg Convention Center in downtown Gatlinburg TN. As August begins and word gets around about this wonderful, and interesting event, storytelling will be on everyone’s mind. On Friday, August 9th starting at 7:00 pm the National Storytelling Conference’s regional concert will have members from all seven regions of the country there to entertain you. These fabulous performers will include: Esther Culver, Meg Gilman, Linda Gorham, Elaine Muray, Priscilla Howe, LynnAnn Wojciechowicz and Julie Pasqual. On this night the emcee for the evening will be Yvonne Healy. Tickets are $10.00 per person and the show will end at 9:00 pm. Just because Friday ended does not mean that it is the end of the conference because Saturday brings more fun and entertainment for everyone to enjoy. Starting at 7:00 pm on Saturday, August 9th the National Storytelling Conference’s national concert showcases four of the most well-known storytellers in the world. These storytellers will include: Diane Ferlatte, Doc McConnell, Motoko and Connie Regan-Blake. On Saturday night the shows emcee will be Jim May and tickets for this show are $15.00. Saturdays show will end at 9:00 pm. The National Storytelling Conference will offer something for everyone that is interested in storytelling. This $100 all-access Concert Package will allow you to come to the two events and get some special packages as well. In this $100 package you will have access to any of the conference’s eight state showcases in the Southeast Region. You can visit these throughout the day in 90 minute time periods from 9:00 am to 5:30 pm on Fridays and Saturday. “Fringe” performances are feature during the day and have late evening shows. These shows will be on Thursday from 10:00 to 11:00 pm, Friday from 9:30 to 10:30 pm and on Saturday from 9:30 to 10:30 pm. Please be cautious because some of these performances do have adult content warnings. With this $100 package you can also get your chance to enjoy Story “Swaps”. This is where guests can sign up to tell their own stories for other people to enjoy. This event takes place during the same evening times and Fringe performances. With so many wonderful storytelling events going on at Gatlinburg Convention Center you will need to get a head start on your August Gatlinburg vacation. Tickets are going quickly so call today and get your spot at the National Storytelling Conference.