Winterfest in the Smokies
34th Annual Winterfest Celebration
Be sure to experience all that Winterfest has to offer in Pigeon Forge,
and the surrounding towns of Gatlinburg and Sevierville.
Celebrate the Season
Holiday Lights
Pigeon Forge, Gatlinburg and Sevierville are decked out with more than 15 million lights in a 25-mile stretch during the annual Smoky Mountain Winterfest Celebration from November 9, 2023, to February 18, 2024. Take a drive down the Pigeon Forge parkway for a spectacular view of the 12 Days of Christmas in lights, or head to Gatlinburg and Sevierville to see each town's intricate light displays.
Be sure to explore Pigeon Forge's Wonders of Light Walking Trail, an enchanting free outdoor holiday lights adventure. The paved and pet-friendly trail showcases over 25 nature-themed musical light displays, including vibrant butterflies, oversized wildflowers, and the whimsical Old Man Winter. Margaritaville Island Hotel offers the perfect home base to enjoy this new attraction, with the walking trail starting adjacent to The Island.
Area Events
Great Smoky Holiday Arts & Crafts Festival
November 21 - 26
Unique handcrafted gifts made by Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community members at the annual holiday show at the Gatlinburg Convention Center.
For more info >>
Wonders of Light Christmas Village
November 18 - 20 and November 25 - 23
Enjoy the festivities at Patriot Park in Pigeon Forge with over 35 booths featuring artisans and crafters with a variety
of seasonal and gift items, including delicious holiday goodies. Admission is free.
For more info >>
Gatlinburg Christmas Parade
December 1
Gatlinburg's Annual Fantasy of Lights Parade, including Santa Claus's arrival starts at 7:30 pm in Downtown Gatlinburg.
For more info >>
Sevierville Christmas Parade
December 2
The town's 59th Annual Christmas Parade starts at 11:00 am in Historic Downtown Sevierville.
For more info >>
Attractions
Winterfest at The Island in Pigeon Forge
November 18 - January 5
Celebrate the season at The Island with a 40-foot-high LED Christmas Tree and The Island Winterfest Fountain Show. Nightly Shows are every evening at 6 pm, 7 pm, 8 pm, and 9 pm. No admission fee required for the fountain show.
For more info >>
Dollywood Smoky Mountain Christmas
November 5 - January 1
Dollywood is magical this time of year; make sure to include a visit to "Smoky Mountain Christmas," an award-winning festival.
For more info >>
Winter at Ober Gatlinburg
Ober Gatlinburg offers snow activities – skiing, snowboarding, snow tubing, playing in the snow, plus plenty of things to do inside for those who prefer to stay warm!
For more info >>
Shows and Theaters
Smoky Mountain Winterfest turns the best Pigeon Forge shows and theaters into a memorable, seasonal experience.
Some of our favorites include:
Christmas at Dolly Parton's Stampede
Christmas Show at Country Tonite
Comedy Barn Christmas Show
Shopping
Want to get some items checked off your gift list?
Shopping in the area ranges from boutique shops featuring the finest handcrafted candies and world-renowned artisans creating everything from quilts, pottery, and hand-hewn furnishings to outlet malls with over 150 brand names where shoppers can find everything from fine china, tools, footwear, clothing, and more.