Gatlinburg Winterfest

The Smoky Mountains are home to several annual events year after year. Gatlinburg, Tennessee’s Winterfest definitely stands out as one of The Smoky Mountains' most magical celebrations throughout the year. For several years, Gatlinburg has been hosting thousands of tourists catching a glimpse of a town whose sky is nothing but radiant light. This old-fashioned town is transformed into a wonderland of dazzling lights, astounding decorations and outstanding shows!

The Smoky Mountain Winterfest is a thrilling festivity, beginning in late fall. Nearly all local businesses take place in celebrating the holiday season, from Dollywood to Ripley’s Aquarium. Holiday Christmas light displays are located throughout the Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, and Sevierville areas offering a variety of vibrant and creative creations. Over 2 million flashy, radiant lights are arranged in jolly theme displays honoring everyone from America's War Veterans to Santa Claus. George Hawkins, manager of Gatlinburg’s office was quoted as saying, "We will have artificial snow, sparklers, dance teams, elves, walking inflatable costumes, clowns, horses and dressed up llamas. We've also ordered several new giant helium balloons to float through the crisp mountain air for spectators to see this year."

From December to February the Smoky Mountain Winterfest has events that will be sure to entice people of all ages. The kick-off evening itself draws approximately 4,000 people to the Sevierville Municipal Complex. “Music, Lights and Magic" has become Sevierville's signature Winterfest event. “Music, Lights, and Magic,” is ideal for children because of all its family fun activities such as old-time children's games, moonwalks, a climbing wall, photos with Santa, balloon animals, polices services, fire truck bucket rides and hayrides. People were taken care of with food; barbecue, hot dogs, soft drinks and hot chocolate are all given away for free.

Visitors can view the lights and sights from a tractor-drawn hay wagon trip along Baskins Creek and Historic Nature Trail as well as a short distance into the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The city also offers a one-hour Trolley Ride of Lights which takes passengers through the downtown area and the Glades Arts and Crafts community. Riders also receive a guide telling them about the area and stories about local people. Groups can ride through the town in Limousines for the Limo Ride of Lights event.

Those name just a few of The Smoky Mountain Winterfest’s activities. Thousands gather into Gatlinburg to also participate in the Winterfest Annual Chili Cook-off, Miss Winterfest Pageant, the annual Winterfest Parade, and the grand finale fireworks display.

Don't miss out on this wonderful event. Make reservations with Cabins For You well in advance for your Gatlinburg or Pigeon Forge cabin rental.