Back by popular demand, Gatlinburg's seventh annual presentation of Smoky Mountain Tunes & Tales begins in Downtown Gatlinburg on June 15th and runs through August 11th.  A summer long street performanceevent featuring costumed musical performers, storytellers and artisans portraying characters from time periods as far back as 1800.  This popular event truly highlights one of Gatlinburg's greatest assets - the walkability of the community-and provides guests with an interactive, educational and entertaining experience the entire family can enjoy.  The collection of personalities and performers arrive nightly at 6pm in the center of town.  Visitors witness a magical transformation of sidewalk to stage as the characters disperse along the downtown parkway for an evening of entertainment and storytelling until 11pm.  As many as 12 nightly acts perform throughout the evening.  The mountain style of music is featured all season from the beginnings of the pure Appalachian sounds to traditional bluegrass music.