A sizeable agenda of activities is nothing out of the ordinary for the staff of Roan Mountain State Park.
With October being recognized as the second busiest month of the year for the staff, Park Manager J.R. Tinch said this weekend ushers in a full plate of fun at the park.
“This weekend is really the first of three weekends of different events at the park,” Tinch said. “October is really our second busiest month of the year with fall colors and people stopping by.”
The park is inviting the public to the park conference center Friday, Oct. 6, for the launch party of the Tennessee Brew Works State Parks Blonde Ale. From 5 to 7 p.m., individuals will have an opportunity to sample the new brew while enjoying local bluegrass music. Roan Mountain’s popular destination, Bob’s Dairyland, will provide barbecue for the evening.
Tinch stated that a portion of proceeds from the sale of the blonde ale will benefit the Tennessee State Parks Conservancy, which will direct funds back into state parks. Parks across the state are hosting launch parties to celebrate the partnership between Tennessee Brew Works and Tennessee State Parks.
Serving as the unofficial kickoff for the fall season at the park, staff will turn around to host the annual Chili Cookoff on Saturday, Oct. 7, from 8 a.m. to noon at Picnic Shelter 3.
Tinch added spots for the cookoff are filled up and was thrilled with the amount of participants for this year’s event. The public is invited to attend the cookoff and help sample some of the cooks’ favorite concoctions.
With the popular fall foliage luring in individuals from across the region, Tinch indicated that cabin rentals tend to be a hot-ticket item.
For more information about activities at the park, visit the Roan Mountain State Park website or call 1-800-250-8620.