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Holiday and Christmas Attractions in the Smokies

Experience festive holiday and Christmas attractions across the Smoky Mountains with events and activities in Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, and Sevierville. Discover dazzling light displays, seasonal celebrations, and family-friendly entertainment that bring the spirit of the season to life.

How to Choose

Find the Right Fit

1

Consider Your Preferred Festivities

Decide if you want to enjoy large-scale events like Dollywood Smoky Mountain Christmas or more intimate celebrations such as the Gatlinburg New Year’s Eve Ball Drop. Each event offers a unique way to celebrate the season.

2

Think About Location and Accessibility

Some attractions are located in busy areas like The Island or downtown Gatlinburg, while others spread out across the region. Choose based on whether you prefer a central location or exploring multiple spots.

3

Match Activities to Your Group’s Interests

From light displays and trolley tours to live music parties and exotic petting experiences, select attractions that best suit your family's or group's holiday interests and energy levels.

Holiday and Christmas Attractions

33 Options Across the Smokies

Sorted by visitor rating and review count. Click any card for full details, photos, and directions.

Dollywood Smoky Mountain Christmas
Top Rated

Dollywood Smoky Mountain Christmas

4.9 stars, 8765 reviews

Pigeon Forge
Gatlinburg New Year's Eve Ball Drop & Fireworks

Gatlinburg New Year's Eve Ball Drop & Fireworks

4.9 stars, 4567 reviews

Gatlinburg
Winterfest at The Island

Winterfest at The Island

4.9 stars, 3456 reviews

Pigeon Forge
Winterfest & Trolley of Lights

Winterfest & Trolley of Lights

4.8 stars, 3456 reviews

Gatlinburg
The Island New Year's Eve Celebration

The Island New Year's Eve Celebration

4.8 stars, 2345 reviews

Pigeon Forge
Sea of Trees - Ripley's Aquarium Holiday Event

Sea of Trees - Ripley's Aquarium Holiday Event

4.8 stars, 1234 reviews

Gatlinburg
Christmas at Springtime Exotic Petting Farm

Christmas at Springtime Exotic Petting Farm

4.8 stars, 876 reviews

Sevierville
Jason Aldean's NYE Party - The Kincaid Band

Jason Aldean's NYE Party - The Kincaid Band

4.7 stars, 876 reviews

Gatlinburg
Mountain Mile Christmas Market

Mountain Mile Christmas Market

4.8 stars, 654 reviews

Pigeon Forge
GSM Jeep Invasion

GSM Jeep Invasion

4.9 stars, 600 reviews

Pigeon Forge
Fall Rod Run

Fall Rod Run

4.7 stars, 550 reviews

Pigeon Forge
Christmas at Skyland Ranch

Christmas at Skyland Ranch

4.7 stars, 543 reviews

Pigeon Forge
Smoky Mountain Pro Rodeo Winter Series

Smoky Mountain Pro Rodeo Winter Series

4.7 stars, 543 reviews

Sevierville
Yule in the Smokies - Viking Holiday Festival!

Yule in the Smokies - Viking Holiday Festival!

4.9 stars, 543 reviews

Sevierville
Spring Rod Run

Spring Rod Run

4.7 stars, 500 reviews

Pigeon Forge
Smoky Mountain Ultimate Elvis Weekend

Smoky Mountain Ultimate Elvis Weekend

4.7 stars, 432 reviews

Pigeon Forge
Chapel at the Park in Gatlinburg

Chapel at the Park in Gatlinburg

4.8 stars, 300 reviews

Gatlinburg
Ponies in the Smokies

Ponies in the Smokies

4.8 stars, 300 reviews

Sevierville
XPERIA Winter Wave Holiday Market

XPERIA Winter Wave Holiday Market

4.6 stars, 234 reviews

Pigeon Forge
Cupid's Chapel of Love in Gatlinburg

Cupid's Chapel of Love in Gatlinburg

4.7 stars, 200 reviews

Gatlinburg
Spring Corvette Expo

Spring Corvette Expo

4.9 stars, 200 reviews

Pigeon Forge
Grand National F-100

Grand National F-100

4.8 stars, 180 reviews

Pigeon Forge
GSM Bronco Stampede

GSM Bronco Stampede

4.8 stars, 160 reviews

Sevierville
Chevy in the Smokies

Chevy in the Smokies

4.8 stars, 150 reviews

Sevierville
Sugarland Wedding Chapel in Pigeon Forge

Sugarland Wedding Chapel in Pigeon Forge

4.6 stars, 150 reviews

Pigeon Forge
Who Is This For

Picking the Right Holiday for Your Group

For Families with Young Kids

Visit Christmas at Springtime Exotic Petting for interactive animal experiences and the Sea Of Trees at Ripley’s Aquarium for beautiful light displays. The Winterfest Trolley of Lights offers a relaxing way to see holiday decorations without too much walking.

For Couples Seeking Festive Evenings

Enjoy the romantic atmosphere of The Island New Year’s Eve Celebration or take a stroll through Winterfest at The Island for illuminated gardens and seasonal decorations. Dollywood’s Smoky Mountain Christmas also offers charming evening shows.

For Groups Looking for Lively Nightlife

Check out Jason Aldean’s NYE Party at The Kincaid for live music and dancing. The Gatlinburg New Year’s Eve Ball Drop provides a festive crowd experience with fireworks and celebrations.

For Visitors Interested in Scenic Holiday Views

While Kuwohi is not part of this category, consider exploring illuminated areas throughout Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge. The Winterfest Trolley of Lights offers a convenient route to enjoy scenic holiday light displays across multiple locations.

For Those Who Enjoy Themed Attractions

Dollywood’s Smoky Mountain Christmas blends rides with holiday themes and lights. The Island’s Winterfest events bring together shopping, dining, and entertainment wrapped in seasonal décor.

Common Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

When do holiday and Christmas attractions open in the Smoky Mountains?

Most holiday and Christmas attractions in the Smoky Mountains open in mid-November and run through early January. Specific dates vary by location, so checking event calendars for Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, and Sevierville is recommended.

Are there family-friendly holiday events in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge?

Yes, many attractions cater to families including Dollywood Smoky Mountain Christmas, Christmas at Springtime Exotic Petting, and the Winterfest Trolley of Lights, offering activities suitable for all ages.

Can I see holiday light displays without driving?

The Winterfest Trolley of Lights provides a convenient way to tour holiday light displays in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge without needing a car. It covers several popular decorated areas along its route.

Are there New Year’s Eve celebrations in the Smoky Mountains?

Yes, events such as the Gatlinburg New Year’s Eve Ball Drop and The Island New Year’s Eve Celebration offer festive gatherings with fireworks, music, and entertainment to ring in the new year.

Is Dollywood open during the holiday season?

Dollywood hosts its Smoky Mountain Christmas event annually, featuring holiday-themed shows, lights, and seasonal rides. It is a popular destination for holiday visitors in the region.

Are pets allowed at holiday attractions?

Policies vary by attraction. Outdoor events like Winterfest light displays may be pet-friendly, but indoor venues such as Ripley’s Aquarium typically do not allow pets. Always check individual attraction rules before visiting.

How crowded do holiday attractions get during peak season?

Holiday attractions in the Smoky Mountains can become busy, especially on weekends and near Christmas and New Year’s Eve. Planning visits during weekdays or early in the season may provide a more relaxed experience.

Where to Stay

Stay Within Reach of Holiday and Christmas Attractions

More than 50 luxury cabins within a short drive of the best holiday and christmas attractions in the Smokies. Hot tubs, mountain views, room for the whole crew.

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Related Categories

Festivals and Fairs Theme Parks and Major Attractions Aquariums and Animals Shows and Theaters Shopping Districts and Outlets Historic Sites