The Smoky Mountains offer a winter wonderland of Christmas events and activities that make the holiday season truly magical. From twinkling light displays and festive parades to enchanting train rides and holiday shows, the Smokies provide a diverse array of festive experiences for visitors of all ages.
Popular Christmas Events and Festivals
Winterfest Lights
The Smoky Mountains transform into a dazzling display of lights during the Winterfest season. In Pigeon Forge, the Riverwalk Greenway is transformed into the Wonders Of Light Walking Trail, featuring millions of twinkling lights. Visitors can enjoy both free and paid options to view the lights, with a map available to guide them through the enchanting display. Gatlinburg also shines brightly, with millions of lights adorning the city and creating a winter wonderland atmosphere.
Christmas Shows
The Smoky Mountains are home to a variety of theaters and dinner shows that offer special holiday performances, making them a top destination for Christmas entertainment. In Pigeon Forge, visitors can enjoy shows like “Christmas in the Smokies” and “Twas the Night Before Christmas” on indoor stages, as well as outdoor performances like “Appalachian Christmas” and “O Holy Night” at Dollywood.
Christmas Parades
The Smoky Mountains are alive with festive parades during the holiday season. Gatlinburg hosts the Fantasy Of Lights Christmas Parade on December 4th, while Sevierville holds its Christmas Parade the following day. Pigeon Forge, Gatlinburg, and Sevierville also host Winterfest parades, adding to the celebratory atmosphere.
Pictures with Santa
Visitors to the Smoky Mountains can capture the magic of the season by taking pictures with Santa. Santa can be found at various locations, including Anakeesta, where you can have breakfast with the Claus family, and The Mountain Mile, where he makes appearances on specific dates.
Unique and Off-the-Beaten-Path Activities
The Polar Express Train Ride
For a truly enchanting experience, the Polar Express Train Ride in Bryson City takes passengers on a magical journey to the North Pole. This 1¼ hour round-trip excursion includes hot cocoa, treats, and a visit from Santa, creating a memorable and immersive holiday adventure.
Anakeesta’s Enchanted Christmas
Anakeesta, the mountaintop attraction in Gatlinburg, transforms into a winter wonderland during the holiday season. Decorated with millions of twinkling lights, Anakeesta offers a variety of holiday adventures and a classic Christmas Tree Farm experience.
Dillsboro Festival of Lights and Luminaries
The charming town of Dillsboro becomes a winter wonderland during the Festival of Lights and Luminaries. With 2500 luminaries lighting the way to shops and studios, the town offers a unique and enchanting experience, complete with horse and buggy rides.
Gatlinburg’s Winter Magic Tunes and Tales
Gatlinburg’s Winter Magic Tunes and Tales is a holiday celebration that combines music, Christmas characters, and more, creating a unique blend of history and humor for visitors to enjoy.
Additional Events and Activities
Great Smoky Holiday Arts & Crafts Show
The Great Smoky Holiday Arts & Crafts Show, held at the Gatlinburg Convention Center, features handcrafted gifts from the Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community. This event runs from November 26 to December 8, 2024, offering a chance to discover unique and locally-made holiday treasures.
Franklin’s Winter Wonderland Nights
In Franklin, visitors can experience the magic of the holiday season with unique events like living window displays, live music, and extended shopping hours on Saturdays, November 25th and December 2nd, 2023.
Christmas in Cashiers
The charming village of Cashiers celebrates the holiday season with the Christmas in Cashiers event. The Village Green is decorated with twinkling lights and festive decorations, and the event features activities like Santa on the Green and the Mistletoe Market.
The Smoky Mountains offer a diverse array of Christmas events and activities, making it a premier destination for those seeking a truly magical holiday experience. From dazzling light displays and festive parades to enchanting train rides and holiday shows, the Smokies provide a winter wonderland that is sure to create lasting memories for visitors of all ages.
References
- https://www.pigeonforge.com/things-to-do-christmas/
- https://www.visitsmokies.org/celebrate-smoky-mountain-holiday-traditions/
- https://www.visitmysmokies.com/blog/smoky-mountains/christmas-in-the-smoky-mountains/
- https://www.dollywood.com/themepark/festivals/smoky-mountain-christmas/
- https://pigeonforgewinterfest.com