Walking in a Winter Wonderland: 4 Ways to Enjoy Smoky Mountain Winterfest
It’s almost the most wonderful time of the year! That means winter is approaching, and it’s time to celebrate in the Smokies. If you are coming into town for the holidays, then you absolutely have to enjoy all the amazing activities at Smoky Mountain Winterfest. This festival is a celebration between Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, Sevierville, and Sevier County. You and your family will love driving around and looking at the Christmas lights displays all over town. There are so many ways to enjoy Smoky Mountain Winterfest. All you have to do is get ready to have a great time!
1. Go on the Winterfest Driving Tour to See the Lights
This year, there are more than 15 million lights covering streetscapes and businesses in the Smoky Mountain area.Your family can enjoy seeing the dazzling Christmas lights display at Smoky Mountain Winterfest all while in the comfort of your car. Each year, tons of visitors come from all over to witness the extravagant lights display. Some of the lights are even in the shape of fun fairytale characters for this year’s celebration. It’s really a wonderful sight to see for the holidays.
2. Hit the Slopes at Ober Mountain
Take your friends and family to Ober Mountain to feel the fun and excitement of going snow tubing. You can glide down the snowy slopes while the cool breeze runs through your hair. It’s a high thrill activity that is sure to be fun for the whole family. Ober Mountain also offers other fun winter experiences like ice skating, snowboarding, and skiing. When you purchase a winter wristband, you’ll have access to several different activities for one inclusive price. You really can’t go wrong with planning a trip to Ober Mountain this holiday season.
3. Watch the Gatlinburg Christmas Parade
If you’re in town on December 1st, the one Winterfest activity you don’t want to miss out on is the Gatlinburg Christmas Parade! The parade starts at 7:30 p.m. in downtown Gatlinburg. It’s recognized as one of the “Top 20 Events in the Southeast,” and features incredible LED light displays, marching bands, large balloons, dancers, holiday characters and more. If you can’t be in town to see the Fantasy of Lights Parade, you’re in luck. The special event will be broadcasted on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day on local TV stations in over 100 markets throughout the country!
4. Go See Gatlinburg’s Festival of Trees
The Gatlinburg Festival of Trees is a longstanding tradition in town that will not only get you feeling festive, but also raises money for good causes. So it’s a win-win when you visit! The event is located at the W. L. Mills Conference Center, and features tons of Christmas trees completely decorated! Each tree will be unique, and may even have a special theme. You’ll leave inspired to decorate your tree when you return home! Guests can purchase trees and wreathes while at the event as well.
You can enjoy all of these festive activities at Smoky Mountain Winterfest. If you’re looking for more fun things to do, check out our blog on the best Gatlinburg winter attractions you should visit on your next vacation.
