6 Can’t-Miss Christmas Events in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge
If you’re planning a holiday trip to the Smoky Mountains, you’re in for a treat! The region transforms into a magical winter wonderland with festive sights, sounds, and flavors. To help you plan the perfect vacation this holiday season, we’ve put together this list of some of the top Christmas events in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge that you won’t want to miss.
1. Winterfest
If you’re visiting the Smoky Mountains during the holidays, one of the can’t-miss Christmas events in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge is Winterfest. This event spans all across the Smoky Mountains area and is sure to fill you with holiday cheer! Millions of twinkling lights line the streets and walkways in festive displays, casting a joyful glow throughout Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, and Sevierville. You’ll see everything from snowmen to Christmas trees to fairytale scenes and more!
2. Dollywood’s Smoky Mountain Christmas
Another one of the must-visit Christmas events in the Smokies is Dollywood’s Smoky Mountain Christmas. This holiday festival is sure to fill you with the Christmas spirit! The beloved theme park is decorated with more than six million sparkling lights, dozens of Christmas trees, and a variety of festive scenes. You can watch heartwarming shows, listen to holiday tunes, and savor the flavors of the season. Other things to enjoy during this Christmas event include holiday shopping, award-winning rides, encounters with Santa, and much more!
3. Enchanted Christmas at Anakeesta
Enchanted Christmas at Anakeesta is one of the most popular Christmas events in Gatlinburg. Experience the magic of the holidays and the beauty of the Smokies at this mountaintop attraction. During this annual festival, Anakeesta is illuminated with more than a million twinkling lights! Enjoy festive photo ops, stunning mountain views, and holiday entertainment. You can also try seasonal treats and cozy up around the fire pit while sipping hot cocoa. On select days, you can even have breakfast with Santa himself!
4. Lights Over Gatlinburg at Gatlinburg SkyPark
This holiday season, one of the best Christmas events in Gatlinburg is Lights Over Gatlinburg. The Gatlinburg SkyPark features all things Christmas, with thousands of festive lights, fun photo ops, and towering Christmas trees. A favorite of this festival is the Christmas lights that span the entire length of the SkyBridge! You’re sure to be filled with holiday cheer as you walk through this tunnel of lights. During the day, you can experience some of the best views in town, then come back after dark to immerse yourself in the wonder of the season!
5. Great Smoky Christmas Arts & Crafts Show
The Great Smoky Christmas Arts & Crafts Show takes place at the beginning of December each year. This Christmas event in Gatlinburg is hosted by the Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community and features unique handcrafted gifts made by talented artisans. You can explore dozens of booths featuring one-of-a-kind handmade items such as quilts, baskets, candles, pottery, jewelry, and so much more!
6. SkyLand’s Festival of Lights at The Ranch
One of the newest Christmas events in the Smoky Mountains is SkyLand’s Festival of Lights at The Ranch. SkyLand Ranch transforms into a winter wonderland with more than a million lights, immersive displays, and the only chairlift light show in the Smokies! This family-friendly holiday celebration offers a one-of-a-kind view of the season from the mountaintop. Take photos with festive displays, admire the twinkling lights, and taste holiday flavors that are sure to delight!
More Ways to Celebrate Christmas in the Smoky Mountains
You’ll definitely want to visit these Christmas events in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge! These aren’t the only ways to celebrate the magic of the season. If you’re looking for more things to do during the holidays, make sure you check out these top ways to celebrate Christmas in the Smoky Mountains for an unforgettable vacation!
Are you still looking for the perfect holiday gift for your friends and family who love the Smoky Mountains? Give the gift of adventure with a Smoky Mountain Outdoors rafting gift card!
