Winter is the most magical time of the year in the Smoky Mountains! A winter wonderland comes to life to create a memorable experience across Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge and Sevierville as part of Smoky Mountain Winterfest! More than 5 million Christmas lights decorate the streets of these cities to create mind-blowing displays that put you in the holiday spirit! Here is your complete guide to Smoky Mountain Winterfest:
What to Expect
There’s more to Smoky Mountain Winterfest than just the twinkling light displays! Winterfest is a celebration of the holiday season that includes numerous special holiday shows, musical performances, cider sippings, candy tastings, arts and crafts, shopping and other entertainment!
Winterfest runs from early to mid November through February each year, serving up smiles and Christmas cheer to endless Smoky Mountain visitors.
Winterfest in Pigeon Forge
Winterfest Wonders of Light Walking Trail
Pigeon Forge Winterfest just got even better with the debut of Winterfest Wonders of Light Walking Trail, the city’s newest light show featuring 20 nature-themed outdoor light displays along Pigeon Forge’s Riverwalk nature trail! These awesome light displays include walk-thru arches, a colorful 52-feet-long caterpillar, Old Man Winter and larger-than-life flowers! You can be the first to see this new attraction at the Winterfest Kickoff!
Dollywood’s Smoky Mountain Christmas
Dollywood lights up with more than 6 million individual lights as it spreads Christmas cheer this time of year! Dollywood’s Smoky Mountain Christmas has been voted America’s Best Christmas event for more than a decade! Enjoy rides, holiday music, award-winning shows and fireworks at the Pigeon Forge theme park!
Winterfest in Gatlinburg
Anakeesta’s Enchanted Winter Celebration
As the sun sets on Anakeesta mountain, the Gatlinburg theme park begins to come alive with a celebration of lights during Anakeesta’s Enchanted Winter Celebration! Bring along the family or friends and enjoy a hot toddy or hot chocolate around the fire before exploring Anakeesta villages! These light displays and delicious dining options make for a great experience that puts everyone in the Christmas spirit.
Walk the Parkway
Two of our favorite words are fun and free! You get both of those while exploring the Gatlinburg Parkway! It doesn’t cost a dime to walk through downtown Gatlinburg and experience all the Christmas lights taking over the city! Unique shops, eateries and attractions are all located on the Parkway, so you’ll surely find something fun to do!
Winterfest in Sevierville
Shadrack’s Christmas Wonderland
Shadrack’s Christmas Wonderland is a drive-thru light experience in Sevierville! Located at Smokies Stadium in Kodak, this fan-favorite experience is its final season after 13 years! They’re also debuting a brand new show, Shadrack’s Super-Sized Christmas Adventure, that takes place at Soaky Mountain Waterpark and throws visitors into a world of super-sized toys, animals and imagination!
The Apple Barn Cider Mill & General Store
Now this is a place that knows how to decorate for the season! You can feel the Christmas spirit in the air as soon as you step foot on the property! Apple Barn Cider Mill & General Store is a family farm that specializes in growing apple crops! The Apple Barn Christmas & Candle Shop is full of holiday treasures to explore! Don’t forget to grab a meal at Applewood Farmhouse Restaurant or Applewood Grill!
You’ve got all the information you need before heading to Smoky Mountain Winterfest, now you just need somewhere to stay! Browse our Smoky Mountain cabins to find a great place to stay near all the celebrations this winter!
