RT Lodge, the beloved Smoky Mountain retreat recently recognized as a Michelin-recommended restaurant destination, has announced the return of The Gathering, an elevated culinary weekend experience taking place Aug. 28–30, 2026.

Now in its fifth year, The Gathering brings together acclaimed chefs, makers, distillers, farmers and hospitality professionals for an immersive weekend designed to celebrate the connection between food, craft and community.

Set against the natural beauty of RT Lodge’s wooded property in Maryville, Tennessee, the event is intentionally intimate in scale, offering guests exclusive access to collaborative dining experiences, curated tastings, fireside conversations and hands-on culinary programming.

Positioned as one of the Southeast’s most distinctive culinary weekends, The Gathering reflects RT Lodge’s continued evolution as a destination for refined hospitality and chef-driven experiences.

The announcement comes on the heels of The Restaurant at RT Lodge earning Michelin Recommended status in the Michelin Guide American South selection.

“From the beginning, The Gathering has been about creating meaningful experiences around the table; bringing together talented chefs, artisans and guests in a setting that feels personal, thoughtful and deeply connected to place,” said Trevor Stockton, executive chef at RT Lodge. “As the event has grown, we’ve remained intentional about preserving the intimate nature of the weekend while continuing to elevate the culinary experience.”

This year’s featured participants include:

• Chef Khaled AlBanna and mixologist Raven Humphrey of Calliope in Chattanooga

• Pastry Chef April Franqueza of Canyon Ranch, formerly of High Hampton

• Tyler Trainum of Autumn Olive Farms

• Head Distiller Tiana Saul of Chattanooga Whiskey

• Shannon Walker of Harper Bros. General Store

• Darrell Benton of Benton’s Country Ham

• Nathan Kitner of Mia Piccola Throughout the weekend, guests will enjoy collaborative dinners, beverage pairings, craft demonstrations, specialty tastings, panel discussions, a guided foraging excursion and a Sunday brunch experience.

Weekend packages include a two-night stay at RT Lodge, all meals with thoughtfully paired beverages and full access to event programming.

Due to the intentionally limited size of the experience, accommodations and packages are expected to sell quickly.

A portion of proceeds from The Gathering will benefit Southern Smoke Foundation, a national nonprofit supporting food and beverage workers through emergency relief funding and mental health services.

Located just outside Knoxville in the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains, RT Lodge has become known for its elevated yet approachable hospitality, acclaimed culinary program and immersive guest experiences rooted in East Tennessee’s natural beauty and culinary culture.