Roan Mountain Tennessee Is Gearing Up For This Year’s Rhododendron Festival. This Week Marks The Peak Blooming Time For The Catawba Rhododendron At The 6-Thousand-Foot Level Of The Cloudland Gardens. The First Festival Was Held 69 Years Ago In 1947. A Celebration Featuring Food, Crafts And Music Will Take Place This Weekend At Roan Mountain State Park On Saturday And Sunday.