Hidden away in the heart of the majestic Cumberland Plateau in Southeastern Tennessee, Monteagle is a great place to get rid of your cabin fever. With a history dating back to the 1700’s, the city has played an important role in the region. Due to its natural position on the plateau and its location halfway between Chattanooga and Nashville, Monteagle serves as a main gateway to the Southern Cumberland Plateau. The city didn’t take shape until 1870, when John Moffat visited the area. He saw the potential and natural beauty of Mount Eagle and decided to make the area his family's home.
Before you even reach Monteagle, the region's beauty will come through in the lush wilderness, stunning vistas, and diverse wildlife. Along with great views of the landscape, you’ll find plenty of activities in the area to keep you busy. You can explore and hike the scenic Mountain Goat Trail and Cumberland State Park. Head out to High Point, explore the 1920’s mansion (rumored to be initially funded by Al Capone), and enjoy a delicious meal . The Blue Chair Tavern has a special "Fog" beer just for the festival and the local restaurants feature a diverse menu of food options. One of the best way to experience this beautiful community is during a local event or festival, like the annual Fog Festival.
For the past 10 years, the city of Monteagle has brought a new dynamic to Valentine's Weekend with their Fog Festival. This event is for all ages and backgrounds, with many people from the community and the surrounding towns participating. The events take place all over town at various businesses and locations. You’ll find plenty of activities that are great for the entire family ranging from educational opportunities to special hikes at the State Recreation Area. Make your Valentine's Weekend one you’ll never forget and head to Monteagle for the highly enjoyable Fog Festival. We got the opportunity to interview Boo Beavers, Executive Director of the Monteagle Mountain Chamber of Commerce, to talk about this unique event.
RAL: Tell me a little bit about the festival.
BB: Fog Fest was created in 2006 and we are proud to celebrate our 10-year anniversary this year. We have at least 20 participants and locations to visit during this year’s festival. You’ll be able to see local artists, crafters, restaurants, State Parks, writers, innkeepers and more. This event is for the entire family! We draw many people from the surrounding communities and it's a great way to get together to showcase what we have to offer. The festival gives everyone a chance to explore our beautiful town and community.
RAL: What makes the event unique?
BB: During the three days of Valentine’s weekend (February 12, 13 & 14), area businesses will have open houses and some will have learning opportunities. Fog Fest signs will be located outside of each participating business. Our posters include a QR code that you can scan to see the list of participants and activities! This is an opportunity to explore what our mountain area has to offer and to get to know the friendly and welcoming people of our community.
RAL: What will people find at the festival.
BB: Attendees can see bread making at the Dutch Maid Bakery, listen to author’s reading their books, engage in lively discussions afterwards, and take in some great live music at the Smoke House. In addition, there will be unique meals created by local restaurants, Fog Beer served at the Blue Chair Tavern, arts and craft vendors at Tom’s Place, along with the opportunity to explore a variety of items for sale at Mooney’s Market. You’ll even get the chance to have a custom flavor of smoothie created just for Fog Fest!
RAL: What will people find for local lodging?
BB: There are several places to stay in and around Monteagle. Some of the local options include: Monteagle Inn, Jim Oliver’s Smokehouse, Motel 6, Super 8, and Sewanee Inn. Regardless of the size of your group or your budget for the trip, you’ll find the perfect lodging close to town. You can also contact Sewanee Monteagle Realtors to see what rental houses are available.
RAL: What does this festival mean to the community?
BB: This festival provides our community the opportunity to introduce itself to visitors, in the hope they will consider coming back to explore more of the community. It’s a great for opportunity for locals to get out and have fun during the winter. The extra people brought into Monteagle spend money at many of the local businesses. It is a welcomed boost to the economy during a traditionally slow season for local businesses.
RAL: Why should people come?
BB: This is a great event to break up the winter blues and have a great time. Our town, and the surrounding communities, are beautiful and warrant a visit during any season. The residents here are friendly, warm, and welcome new people into the community. I can’t think of a better way to spend Valentine's Weekend!
For more information about the Fog Festival, please visit their website.