Fact Sheet

The information below is specifically created for the Media as a convenient resource for key details about the of the National Storytelling Festival, and is intended as a tool to help generate press for the festival and events at the International Storytelling Center.

Founded

The National Storytelling Festival was founded by Jimmy Neil Smith in 1973.

Event Dates

The three day National Storytelling Festival begins on the first Friday in October.

Location

Jonesborough, Tennessee is easy to reach by car. From Interstate 81, Jonesborough is located along U.S. Highway 11-E. It’s 15 minutes southwest of Johnson City, 25 minutes northeast of Greeneville, and 90 minutes north of Knoxville. Click here for a map and travel information.

Average Annual Attendance

10,000 Visitors

Sponsoring Organizations

The festival is produced by the International Storytelling Center, headquartered in Jonesborough, Tennessee.

Festival Sponsors

The National Storytelling Festival appreciates the generous support of all its sponsors, Alliance for Peacebuilding, Carnegie Hotel, Dollywood’s Dreammore Resort, Dunkin’ Donuts, Foster Signs, Holston Distributing, Mauk’s of Jonesborough, National Endowment for the Arts, Niswonger Foundation, One Stop Wines & Spirits and The Tennessee Arts Commission.

Media Sponsors

News 5 WCYB, FOX Tri-Cities, Tri-Cities CW, Johnson City Press, Kingsport Times News, Herald & Tribune, Hillhouse Graphic Design and Cumulus Media.