REPORT FROM THE SMOKIES: July 4th weekend down significantly from 2025

[Collin Hays]

Per a well-trusted source of mine:

Overall market occupancy for STRs in Sevier County is DOWN from last year for July 2, which many consider the start of the July 4th weekend.  Overall occupancy is 72 percent.  Total booked nights are 10,600, down from 13,500 a year ago. 

21 percent fewer bookings over last year.

As for my own company, we were 88 percent occupied last night, but we have been very active in managing rates to stay booked.

[John Underwood]

Our 6 bedroom cabin is booked solid for June and July. Somebody leaves this morning and another group arrives this afternoon. 

August looks sluggish so far.

September to December has strong bookings already.