Smoky Mountains event guide
Pigeon Forge Spring Rod Run Weekend
The Pigeon Forge Rod Run moves to May for 2027, bringing show cars, a swap meet and a car corral to the LeConte Center, May 20–22. Here's a long-weekend plan for a group.
By Cameron HergetEvent dates checked against the official source
- 3 days
- Groups of up to 116
- May 20 – 22, 2027
Where to stay for the Rod Run
All Smoky Mountains staysSuggested plan, day by day
These are suggestions, not a package. AvantStay doesn’t book, sell, or arrange any of these activities. Check hours, tickets, and reservations directly with each place.
Day 1 · Thu: Show opens
Arrive, then the first day of the show.
Event · Afternoon
Show cars, the swap meet and the car corral. Spectator parking at the show is free, per the event.
Day 2 · Fri: Cades Cove & the Island
An early park drive, then an evening on the Parkway.
Scenic drive · Early morning
A one-way loop road through an open valley known for wildlife. Check for closures before you go.
Shopping · Evening
Shops, restaurants and rides in the middle of Pigeon Forge.
Day 3 · Sat: Final day
The last day of the show, then a mill lunch.
Event · Morning
The final day of the Rod Run.
Restaurant · Lunch
Southern cooking beside a working grist mill.
Good to know
Getting in
Fly into Knoxville (TYS), about an hour and 20 minutes from Pigeon Forge outside traffic.
Traffic
The Rod Run is the area's largest automotive gathering, so allow extra time on the Parkway.
Parking tags
The national park requires a parking tag for vehicles parked longer than 15 minutes: $5 a day or $15 a week, per the National Park Service.
Optional extras
Through AvantStay concierge you can add fridge stocking or a private chef, booked and paid separately.
Frequently asked questions
May 20–22, 2027, at the LeConte Center in Pigeon Forge. It moves to a new month for 2027.
Hundreds of show cars, a swap meet, a car corral and awards, per the event.
Spectator parking in the LeConte Center's two large lots is free, per the event.
Pigeon Forge and Sevierville keep the drive to the LeConte Center short. Set your dates and group size above to see the stays that fit.