
Our History
Smoky Mountain Event Center, Formerly Haywood County Fairgrounds

MISSION STATEMENT: Smoky Mountain Event Center seeks to promote and encourage agricultural, manufacturing, educational, recreational, cultural, and art activities and events for the enrichment of Haywood County.
Since its beginnings in 1990 with the donation of 26 acres by Mrs. Edith Long Fultz, over the years this non-profit, multi-use, year-round facility has been developed to now comprise of 2 large exhibit halls, a covered regulation size arena, a livestock barn, thirty box stalls, and beautiful grounds with Smoky Mountain views. Two meadow areas allow for outdoor event space. These versatile facilities satisfy a range of clients’ needs. The facility is owned by Haywood County and is governed by a volunteer board appointed by the Haywood County Board of Commissioners. The governing board is charged with rental of the facilities to provide income to fund the operation and maintenance of the facilities. For an affordable and accommodating event space, choose Smoky Mountain Event Center for your next event.
Meet the Team
Paid Staff:
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Nancy Davis- Event Coordinator/Managerial
Cara Rogers- Event Coordinator/Managerial
Angie DeHart- Custodial Manager
** Please Note: The SMEC Board of Directors hold board meetings, open to the public on the 2nd Wednesday of each month. Time and location of meetings can be found on the by visiting our "Calendar of Events"
Board of Directors:
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Dennis Stanton - Chairman
Kelli Sutton - Secretary
Terry Clark - Treasurer
Kevin Ensley - Board of Commissioner's Representative
Daniel Griffin - Member at Large
Jeff Phillips - Member at Large
Sally Dixon - Member at Large