Pigeon Forge Rod Run Kicks Off at New LeConte Center

In case you have not already noticed the traffic or Parkway lined with classic cars, it is time for the Spring Pigeon Forge Rod Run.

Thousands of car enthusiasts will be in town this weekend for the first car show of 2014 and the weather promises to be sunny and warm.

Previously held at the Grand Resort Hotel, the Pigeon Forge Rod Run is moving just a short distance to the new LeConte Center in Pigeon Forge on the corner of Jake Thomas and Teaster Lane this year. Organizers will have a trailer in front of the old Grand Resort Hotel site to direct visitors to the new venue. The event will have show cars and vendors inside the exhibit hall and outside in the parking area behind the facility.

“With over 100,000 SF of show space, the Pigeon Forge Rod Run will be able to accommodate more show cars as well as more vendors and additional entertainment,” said Rod Run promoter MCS Promotions in a news release.

Classic car enthusiasts visit the Pigeon Forge Rod Run at LeConte Center.

There will also be plenty of free car watching in Pigeon Forge this weekend. Classic cars, in conditions from barn fresh to fully restored, and car lovers in lawn chairs will line both sides of the Parkway all weekend. Many visitors come in hopes of buying, selling or trading classic cars and you can see many have FOR SALE signs or sale details written in glass marker on the windshield.

If you go, the Pigeon Forge Rod Run at LeConte Center is open Friday 9am-6pm and Saturday 9am-5pm. Admission is $10. Parking is free in the adjacent lot between LeConte Center and The Island. There is also a pay lot directly across the street from LeConte Center’s main entrance where the proceeds benefit Arrowmont School of Arts and Crafts.

Remember to drive with extra caution as Pigeon Forge traffic will be heavy and there will be a tremendous number of pedestrians using the sidewalks and crosswalks, as well as walking in parking lots where classic cars are on display. In an effort to keep traffic moving and discourage motorists from blocking intersections along the Parkway, police have set up large digital signs warning of an $83.75 fine for blocking intersections.

The Fall Pigeon Forge Rod Run will be held September 11-13, 2014 at the LeConte Center.