GATLINBURG, Tenn. (WOKI / WVLT) — One of Gatlinburg’s tastiest annual traditions is returning later this month as restaurants across the city prepare to compete for burger bragging rights during GatlinBURGER Week.
The Gatlinburg Convention & Visitors Bureau announced the seven-day culinary competition will run from Friday, Sept. 11 through Friday, Sept. 18, bringing together 23 restaurants and attractions serving unique, limited-time burger creations.
The event challenges visitors and locals alike to sample as many burgers as possible while helping crown the city’s favorite specialty burger.
At the end of the competition, the burger receiving the most public votes will earn the title of “GatlinBURGER Meister,” one of the event’s top honors.
Twenty-Three Restaurants to Compete
Participating restaurants and attractions throughout Gatlinburg will offer exclusive burgers specially created for the event.
From gourmet toppings and specialty sauces to creative twists on classic favorites, organizers say the competition showcases the creativity and culinary talent found throughout the Smoky Mountain tourism destination.
Guests can visit participating locations throughout the week, sample the burgers and vote for their favorites using the official event platform.
Take the GatlinBURGER Challenge
In addition to taste-testing burgers, visitors can participate in the GatlinBURGER Challenge through the official Visit Gatlinburg mobile app.
Participants must:
- Download the Visit Gatlinburg app.
- Locate “The GatlinBURGER Challenge” under the app’s goals section.
- Order specialty burgers from participating locations.
- Check in digitally at seven or more participating restaurants during the event.
- Present proof of completion at the Gatlinburg Welcome Center.
Both dine-in and carryout orders count toward the challenge.
Exclusive Prizes Available
Those who successfully complete the challenge will receive a collection of exclusive GatlinBURGER Week prizes, including:
- Official GatlinBURGER Week T-shirt
- Crochet pal
- Commemorative sticker
- Squishy collectible
- Lapel pin
Officials say the challenge has become one of the event’s most popular features, encouraging visitors to explore a variety of local restaurants throughout the city.
Vote and Win a Gatlinburg Getaway
Even burger fans who do not complete the challenge can still participate.
Anyone who submits a vote for their favorite burger during GatlinBURGER Week will automatically be entered into a drawing for the event’s Grand Prize.
The winner will receive:
- A two-night stay in Gatlinburg
- A Gatlinburg Attractions Pass
Tourism officials say the event continues to grow each year, helping highlight local restaurants while giving visitors another reason to explore Gatlinburg’s dining scene.
A complete list of participating restaurants, specialty burger descriptions and challenge details can be found through the Gatlinburg Convention & Visitors Bureau and the Visit Gatlinburg app. Please go to https://www.gatlinburg.com/events/annual-events/burger-week/
