Adjust volume for full video experience.
Site best view on desktop version.
.png)
America 250 Celebrations in Johnson County, Tennessee!
A Year of Celebration. Heritage. Community.
In 2026, Johnson County proudly joins communities across the nation in celebrating America’s 250th Anniversary — and here in the mountains of Northeast Tennessee, we’re doing it the way we know best: through music, heritage, storytelling, faith, patriotism, and community traditions that have shaped our home for generations.
This will be a year-long celebration honoring our past, celebrating our present, and inspiring our future. And it all begins in April . . .
I🧵 April 17–18, 2026
Shady Valley Festival of Quilts
📍 Shady Rock School – Shady Valley, TN
The 2026 Shady Valley Festival of Quilts launches Johnson County’s America 250 celebration with color, craftsmanship, and Appalachian tradition.
Held April 17 & 18 from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. at historic Shady Rock School, this beloved festival celebrates the art of quilting while honoring American heritage through fabric and design.
This year’s festival will feature:
-
🪡 2026 Quilt Competition
-
🇺🇸 Flag Quilt Competition
-
🏅 Southern Appalachian Quilts of Valor Awards (11:00 a.m. daily)
-
🧵 National Quilt Index Documentation Day
-
🖼 Historical Quilt & Photo Exhibit
-
🚶 Guided Tours of Historic Shady Rock School
-
🛍 Vendors & Shady Rock School Café
-
🎁 Door Prizes
ADMISSION
🎟 One-Day Pass: $10
🎟 Two-Day Pass: $15
🇺🇸 Veterans & Children Under 12: FREE
All proceeds benefit Shady Rock School (501(c)(3)).
This event sets the tone for a year filled with tradition, storytelling, and mountain pride.
Celebrate America 250: Events Across Johnson County
Johnson County’s story is woven into the fabric of America — from early settlers and Appalachian traditions to music heritage and enduring community spirit.
In 2026, we invite visitors, families, and friends to celebrate 250 years of independence right here in the mountains of Northeast Tennessee.
More event details, tickets, and special announcements will be added soon.
Start planning your visit today.
Explore Lodging
Things To Do
Unique Attractions
MAY
Spirit of America Tour – The Kody Norris Show at Heritage Hall Theatre - Saturday, May 9
Museum of Butler Homecoming Featuring The Kody Norris Show - Saturday, May 23
JUNE
Johnson County Freedom Week at First Christian Church - Sunday, June 28-Saturday, July 4
JULY
America 250 Celebration – July 4th in Mountain City - Saturday, July 4
AUGUST
Old Butler Days - Selma Babe Curtis Park - Friday, August 21- Saturday, August 22
SEPTEMBER
3rd Annual Ribfest – Chamber Park, Mountain City - Saturday, September 5
War Bonds: The Songs & Letters of World War II at Heritage Hall Theatre - Saturday, September 19
OCTOBER
Mountain City Fiddlers’ Convention at Heritage Square - Friday, October 2 - Saturday, October 3
Shady Valley Cranberry Festival - Friday, October 9 - Saturday, October 10
NOVEMBER
Marine Ball – Doe Valley Farm
Veterans Day Celebration – Heritage Hall Theatre - Wednesday, November 11
Get to Know Us
Embrace our great outdoors . . .
Breathe in our fresh clean air . . .
Revel in the sound of an aviary symphony each morning . . .
And gaze up at our beautiful starry sky!
You'll quickly come to love our way of life as you enjoy our spirit of adventure . . . rich musical heritage . . . and some of the most incredible scenery anywhere in the US.
Located in the Northeast tip of Tennessee, we have become a popular vacation destination offering exciting outdoor adventures, fun on the beautiful Watauga Lake, fine dining experiences and welcoming trademark festivals.
Situated at the highest valley in the area, you will want to make Mountain City in Johnson County an annual trip!
