In 2024, Sevier County’s beloved Rod Run will mark 45 years of existence. In the 1970s, the event began as a little auto show in Gatlinburg and has since expanded greatly. Although things have changed recently, people used to enjoy the event in peace back then. Future plans for the event have been called into question by the local community, law enforcement contacts, and new laws.
A Retrospective: Gatlinburg throughout the 1970s
In the beginning, the Rod Run was thought to be a family-friendly occasion. Older accounts, however, document a few tumultuous incidents, including sizable gatherings, detentions, and even riots involving altercations with law enforcement. Nevertheless, the majority of individuals have pleasant memories of those early years, and many families have persisted in taking part over the years.
Accidents and Incidents Lately
A man lost his life in a traffic-related collision at Rod Run in Pigeon Forge in 2024, which was a devastating event. Even if incidents such as this are uncommon, some critics contend that the incident has created a more disorderly atmosphere. Over 850 citations and 85 arrests were reported by law authorities between September 12 and September 14 of this year. Even if these figures seem high, less than 1% of the more than 100,000 participants engaged in any illicit activity.
Comparing to Past Years
There were only 44 arrests and 250 citations in 2023—much less amounts. Some others hypothesize that new city legislation or tougher enforcement may be to blame for the 2024 spike. These laws target Parkway automobile sales, squatting trucks, and advertising. Municipal leaders have commended the heightened police presence for upholding public safety despite the difficulties.
Rod Run’s financial impact
Rod Run is a major source of income for Pigeon Forge. While some businesses—like car washes, lodging facilities, and food stores—benefit from the event, others—like restaurants—report a drop in sales. People who attend frequently struggle with parking and bring their own food. On the other hand, the event’s overall financial impact pales in comparison to the city’s projected $2.6 billion in tourism earnings in 2023.
Rod Run’s Future
The Rod Run’s future is unclear at this point. The LeConte Center, the venue for the event, and the city have a contract that expires in 2026, and it may not be renewed. In addition, starting in 2025, the Smoky Mountain Truck Fest—which was formerly held on the same weekend as the Rod Run—will be held on a different weekend.
In summary
Many companies and locals value Rod Run’s contributions to the community despite the difficulties. The festival adds to the vibrant vibe of the neighborhood, as do others like the Truck Fest and Jeep Invasion. The majority of spectators hope the Rod Run continues for many years to come, even though some improvements are required.
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