The Festival
Welcome to the East Tennessee Homestead Alliance (ETHA), where the rich traditions of our region meet the innovative spirit of modern homesteading. We're more than just an organization – we're a movement, a family, and a testament to the power of community.
Cultivating Community, Nurturing Sustainability
ETHA is dedicated to fostering a resilient, sustainable, and connected community of homesteaders, farmers, and self-reliance enthusiasts across East Tennessee. We believe that by sharing knowledge, resources, and support, we can all thrive in our journey towards a more intentional and self-sufficient lifestyle.
our mission:
We invite you to join a movement that is as much about regaining the past as it is forging a sustainable future. Our mission is to weave a tapestry of resilience and abundance through the revival of time-honored skills. The nurturing of a vibrant community that unites under one goal: sustainability. In every heirloom seed and every hand-crafted tool, and every age old farming practice there lies a story of innovation, resilience and harmony with nature. We are dedicated to unearthing and sharing this knowledge, not just as a testament to our history, but as a vital blueprint of our sustainable living practices. Wether you are just learning to grow that tomato or are a homestead expert, we are here to guide you. We invite you to lean into the immersive weekend with our community, our expert teachers, and our shared meals. With the amount of knowledge you will gain you can confidently go back to your homestead and thrive.
Embracing Heritage Skills
Cultivating Community
Equipping the Next Generation
festival
Got a question about dealing with East Tennessee clay soil? Wondering how others manage their homesteads during our humid summers? Our active online forums are the place to seek advice, share successes, and connect with fellow homesteaders. With dedicated sections for gardening, animal husbandry, off-grid living, and more, you'll find a wealth of region-specific knowledge at your fingertips.
Join The Community
find who and what you need
Mark your calendars for the highlight of the East Tennessee homesteading year – the ETHA Annual Harvest Festival, held every September as summer's bounty reaches its peak. This vibrant two-day celebration brings together homesteaders, farmers, artisans, and sustainability enthusiasts from across the region for a weekend of learning, sharing, and community building. Set against the backdrop of the stunning Smoky Mountains, the festival grounds come alive with hands-on workshops, engaging talks, lively demonstrations, and a bustling marketplace showcasing the best of local produce and crafts. Join us September 12-13, 2025!
Connect with East Tennessee Homesteaders and Enthusiasts
the annual festival
