Fantasy of Lights Christmas Parade
Gatlinburg celebrates this holiday season with the Annual Fantasy of Lights Christmas Parade, taking place Friday, December 4, 2026, at 7:30 PM EST in downtown Gatlinburg. This event is FREE and OPEN to the public. Visitors are encouraged to arrive early to secure a spot along the parade route.
Watch LIVE:
In addition to the live event, the parade will be broadcast on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day across 38 markets, reaching more than 100 million viewers and bringing Gatlinburg’s holiday magic to viewers nationwide. Can’t make it to the parade?
WATCH LIVE ON CHRISTMAS EVE AND CHRISTMAS DAY
Our Hosts:
- Mark Wills – Grand Ole Opry member and multi-platinum country artist known for hits such as “19 Somethin’,” “Wish You Were Here,” and “I Do (Cherish You).” A longtime country music favorite, Wills is celebrated for his smooth vocals, chart-topping singles, and authentic Southern style.
- Nan Kelley – Award-winning television host and producer best known for her work on Great American Country’s Top 20 Country Countdown and Opry Live. A proud Southern storyteller, Kelley has built her career celebrating music, food, and community with warmth and charm.
Grandstand VIP Seating:
Grandstand VIP seating is available for $50 per person, offering bleacher seating, a commemorative Santa Hat and prime viewing of the parade at either traffic light #3 or at the Gatlinburg Convention Center. Seating for the grandstand begins at 5:30 PM. The parade starts at 7:30 PM.
- You may have one child on your lap without purchasing a ticket for that child, as long as the child is under the age of 5.
- No strollers are allowed in grandstand seats, and parking for strollers will NOT be provided.
Parade Route:
The Parade route runs along the Parkway beginning at Baskins Creek Bypass and ending at traffic light #10 near the entrance to Great Smoky Mountains National Park.