Events

Enjoy the aquarium with welcoming lighting, a music free environment, and a quiet room designed for guests who need a break.

Head to The Pines Downtown on Thursday nights from 7 to 9pm for Trivia Madness, with a new theme up for grabs every week.

Make plans to experience Anakeesta’s Bear-Varian Fall Festival!

This Fall at Anakeesta, each village is transformed into a magical realm filled with autumnal décor that will leave you spellbound. Discover pumpkins, scarecrows, seasonal photo-ops and more, around every corner while looking out at the cascading red, orange, and golden leaves over the Great Smoky Mountains.

Our  hometown fair returns for a week of agriculture traditions, contests, fair food, rides, and free nightly music and entertainment.

Boots, bulls, and barrel racing take over for one night only as the Sevier County Fair Rodeo rides into town at 8pm.

All-new for 2026, Rocky Top Mountain Coaster presents Zombie Invasion.

“We Have Been Spook-ified! Get ready for our Trick or Treehouse: A Spook-tacular Celebration. Selena Squirrel wanted to show her forest friends a spook-peak of her Trick-or-Treehouse: Doesn’t it look boo-tastic?! Just look at her dazzling displays and carved pumpkins! She sure knows how to get into the Autumn spirit – there’s nothing like the colors, smells, treats, and excitement of Fall with Selena Squirrel!” On Friday and Saturday nights, we offer Braxton Beaver’s Boogeyman Bingo, Spooky Storytime, Trick or Treat Trail, and Beary Bear’s Boo Bash Dance Party. And, of course, Selena’s best friends will join the Halloween festivities. Candi is busy baking gourd-geous treats and Beary Bear is perfecting his spooky moves for Beary Bear’s Boo Bash. Get ready for freaky-fun crafts, ghostly games, and lots of treats that are good to eat! Tickets – Complimentary to guests staying on property!

NEW this fall, Hatfield & McCoy’s Fall Feudin’ Fiasco puts a seasonal twist on the popular Pigeon Forge dinner show. From September 11 through November 5, guests can enjoy festive fall fun, seasonal surprises and plenty of harvest hollerin’ alongside the Hatfields and McCoys.

Dollywood’s Harvest Festival presented by Humana provides bushels of fall fun thanks to everyone’s favorite Smoky Mountain tradition, Dollywood’s Great Pumpkin LumiNights

Celebrate Halloween in Pigeon Forge with a brand-new family-friendly experience at Rowdy Bear’s Smoky Mountain Funpark! From September 18 through October 31, Rowdy Bear transforms into Boo Park, a festive Fall-O-Ween experience filled with Halloween décor, themed treats, photo opportunities and spooky fun without the fright.

Join Paula Deen's Lumberjack Feud Supper Show in Pigeon Forge, TN as we celebrate Oktoberfest Lumberjack style! Feast on our all you can eat Bavarian buffet loaded with all your Oktoberfest favorites, enjoy our brand-new Jack-toberfest beer brewed exclusively for the Lumberjack Feud, and test your Lumberjack skills in our all new pre-show beer stein-holding contest.

Celebrate fall in the Smokies with Autumn’s GLOW, a NEW seasonal celebration at The Island in Pigeon Forge. They are bringing the colors and feeling of fall to The Island with glowing displays, seasonal entertainment, festive photo spots, shopping, dining, and special events throughout the season. Autumn’s GLOW: A Symphony of Light The Island Show Fountain gets a fall makeover with Autumn’s GLOW: A Symphony of Light. Watch the fountain come to life with a seasonal soundtrack while floating maple leaf lanterns cast a warm harvest glow across the water. Fall Views From the Great Smoky Mountain Wheel The Great Smoky Mountain Wheel joins the celebration with new harvest-themed light shows throughout the season. Take a ride after dark for a view of the illuminated fountain and glowing maple leaf lanterns from above. More Fall Fun at The Island There’s even more to enjoy while you’re there, from seasonal treats and moonshine flavors to fall decorations, photo opportunities, shopping, and dining. Visit during the day to take in the autumn atmosphere, then stick around after dark to see Autumn’s GLOW light up The Island.http://pigeonforge.com/event/fall-at-the-island/

Visitors to Pigeon Forge have the opportunity to see and purchase handmade items from some of the area's most talented artists and crafters at the Rotary Club Fall Crafts Festival, held annually at Patriot Park. This event is free and open to the public.

Dust off your lederhosen and raise your steins — Ober Gatlinburg is bringing back Gatlinburg’s Original Oktoberfest celebration this fall!

From September 25 through November 1, 2026, experience the sights, sounds, and flavors of the world’s most famous beer festival right in the heart of the Smokies.

Kyker Farms opens for the season every weekend starting September 26, 2026. Kyker Farms has tons of fun for families during the fall months.

Ole Red is all about serving up the hottest talent in the game. Thanks to our friends at Mountain Dew, we’re bringing rising star Tayler Holder on one helluva tour—hittin’ the main stage at an Ole Red near you. As one of the most followed country artists on TikTok, Tayler’s well on his way to becoming country’s next big thing. His brand-new single “Halfway to Hell” is racking up streams, and he’s hit some big stages – from bars, to festivals, to the Grand Ole Opry. Don’t miss your chance to see him in a FREE, all-ages show at Blake’s place to play. Mark your calendars for one of his tour stops: September 17 | 7–8 p.m. | Las Vegas September 24 | 9–10 p.m. | Orlando October 1 | 7–8 p.m. | Gatlinburg October 7 | 7:30–8:30 p.m. | Nashville

Each year the Great Smoky Mountains Heritage Center is host to festivals, concerts and special events. Their ten acres are dotted with historic structures and green spaces offering a unique setting for private or public outdoor events including summer concerts on Friday evenings. Sunset Series concerts are included with membership to the Great Smoky Mountains Heritage Center. If you are not a member, come and enjoy the sunset in our covered amphitheater. Doors open at 5:30 and any belongings placed before doors open will be turned into lost and found. No outside chairs, food, beverages, or coolers are allowed, other than water. Pets are not allowed. Legends Concert Series tickets range from $10 - $40. Free membership admission only applies to the members listed in your file. Additional tickets must be purchased for guests. Tickets for concerts listed as part of the Sunset Series are $5-$25. All other shows are priced on the GSM Heritage Center website.

Introducing Smoky Mountain Fan Fests first ever Anime Fest! Join us for a weekend full of fun! Vendors, Anime Guests, Cosplay, Games, and more! October 2nd & 3rd, 2026 at Rocky Top Sports Complex, in Gatlinburg, TN! Don't miss out on this epic adventure!

Dust off your lederhosen and raise your steins — Ober Gatlinburg is bringing back Gatlinburg’s Original Oktoberfest celebration this fall! From October 2 through November 1, 2026, experience the sights, sounds, and flavors of the world’s most famous beer festival right in the heart of the Smokies. Ober will transform into a Bavarian-style festival grounds, complete with blue-and-white checkered décor, mums, fall leaves, oversized steins, and festive photo-ops. Enjoy live bands on the outdoor sound stage and stein-holding competitions for those eager to test their strength Bavarian-style. Relax in the mountaintop biergarten and sip on five different German beers from Yee-Haw Brewing, paired with authentic favorites such as chicken schnitzel, sausages, turkey legs, giant pretzels, and plenty of sweet treats including apple strudel, pumpkin fudge and more.

Through the month of October, Ripley's Haunted Adventure will be hosting its annual Fright Nights. This will be every weekend though the month of October.

Offering local choices for healthy mountain living, the Farmers Market is open each Saturday from 8:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at 1222 East Parkway across from Food City from May through October. Comprised of local producers, the emphasis is on fresh produce and homemade product offered in an atmosphere of community.

The Appalachian Volkswagen Association presents the Circle Yer Wagen VW Show at the Sevier County Fairgrounds. The two day VW show includes a huge swap meet, contests for cash prizes, stereo contests, engine sound-offs, and riverbank camping in the show area. Camping is primitive without hookups, but showers and clean restrooms will be available. The event is held rain or shine, with free secure truck and trailer parking inside the show area. For more information please visit our event listing on PigeonForgeRodRuns.com.

join us for an unforgettable evening celebrating the flavors, people, and traditions that make Sevierville so special. Farm to Fork on Court is a unique open-air dining experience set in the heart of Historic Downtown Sevierville. Guests will gather around one long table on Court Avenue to enjoy a thoughtfully curated multi-course meal featuring fresh, locally sourced ingredients prepared by talented local local chefs and paired with handcrafted local beverages. The evening will also feature live music, a silent auction, local artisans, and an atmosphere that celebrates the connection between our farms, our community, and our table. Whether you’re a passionate foodie, a supporter of local agriculture, or simply looking for an incredible night out, Farm to Fork on Court promises an experience unlike any other.  **Tickets are coming soon!** Follow this page and mark yourself as interested to be the first to know when tickets go on sale. Seating will be limited, and we expect this event to sell out. We can’t wait to share this special evening with you around the table.

The Gatlinburg Craftsmen’s Fair hosts artisans and craftsmen from all over the nation. Hundreds of booths with unique and one-of-a-kind handmade products are beautifully displayed, as these skilled craftspeople demonstrate their talents. All items represented are handmade and of utmost quality-and without duplication. Look for exceptional pottery pieces, molded leather, copper art, local candy makers, and many more unique items. Tickets available at both entrances to the Gatlinburg Convention Center. Admission for adults is $12; children 17 and under free with paid adult. Cash only for tickets purchases. Concessions are available for sale through the Gatlinburg Convention Center. Multi-day pass included for free with photo ID presented at the office. Call (865) 436-7479 for any questions.

Through the month of October, Ripley's Haunted Adventure will be hosting its annual Fright Nights. This will be every weekend though the month of October.

Join us for a quieter experience at Ripley's Aquarium! Several days throughout the year, Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies in Gatlinburg hosts sensory-friendly events which offer welcoming lighting, a music-free environment, and a quiet room for guests who require a break. During these events, all programs, dive shows and exhibits are open. Families receive $3.00 off admission – just mention "Sensory Nights" at our admission windows to receive discount. Sensory-Friendly Mornings & Nights: Some sensory friendly days run from 9:00 am to 10:30 am, and others take place from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm. For specific details, please visit the Ripley's Aquarium website.

The Wears Valley Fall Fest brings visitors together to celebrate the Smoky Mountains and the beautiful fall colors, crafters, entertainers, activities, and more.

Through the month of October, Ripley's Haunted Adventure will be hosting its annual Fright Nights. This will be every weekend though the month of October.

11th annual Jeeptober Fest in the Smokies Halloween themed Jeep Show Event, featuring Class Title & Decorated Jeeps Award Show. Costume Contests, Vendors, Raffle & More. This year’s decoration theme is “Jeepers Creepers Out of this World”.Registration for Decorated or Class Title Shows is $20. Gen Admin is free.Portion of Raffle proceeds to benefit St Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital.Hosted by Quaker Steak & Lube and the Jeep Crew.Contact: info@thejeepcrew.com

Pints & Penguins is an adult-only sleepover event full of animal experiences, delicious bites, a full bar, and more! Start your night off with appetizers and drinks, followed by a behind-the-scenes tour of the Aquarium. Sleep alongside the Aquarium’s African penguin colony in the Penguin Playhouse and wake up to a hot breakfast and penguin encounter. Inspired by Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies' sold-out Sips & Sharks events, Pints & Penguins is an even more intimate program, with limited capacity. Booking in advance is highly recommended. Your ticket includes appetizers, two (2) complimentary drink tickets (cash bar also available), behind-the-scenes tour, a penguin encounter, and hot breakfast. Please arrive and check in at Guest Services at least 10 minutes prior to start time. Sleepovers begin at 7:30 p.m., and end at 8:30 a.m. the next morning.

Celebrate fall in the Smoky Mountains at NOC’s Smoky Mountain Trail-Gate in Gatlinburg! Spend the day catching the football game on the multiple TVs throughout the store while shopping the latest hiking gear, outdoor apparel, and trail essentials for your next Smoky Mountain adventure. Plus, score amazing giveaways from Gregory! The first 20 customers to make a purchase will receive a FREE Gregory Stowaway Backpack, and shoppers can enter to win a Gregory Arrio Unisex Daypack. Whether you’re exploring Great Smoky Mountains National Park, planning a weekend hike, or looking for a fun, family-friendly fall day in Gatlinburg, Smoky Mountain Trail-Gate brings together football, fall in the Smokies, great giveaways, and expert outdoor outfitting all in one place.

Embrace the Halloween spirit with History & Haunts a unique blend of spooky fun and historical intrigue. Enjoy guided historical walking tours, games, Halloween-themed dance parties, and costume contests (for humans and pets!) The evening concludes with a stunning fireworks display over downtown Sevierville, making it a must for families and Halloween enthusiasts alike.

The 2026 Smoky Mountain Overland Invasion is the first annual event held at the LeConte Event Center in Pigeon Forge, TN. The Expo brings together overland, adventure travel, and outdoor lifestyle. The Smoky Mountain Overland Invasion features vendors that showcase adventure travel equipment, camping gear, vehicles, bikes, and services. In addition, The Smoky Mountain Overland Invasion offers educational opportunities, demonstrations and conferences. So whether you are just beginning to think about overlanding or a seasoned enthusiast the Smoky Mountain Overland Invasion has something for everyone.

Through the month of October, Ripley's Haunted Adventure will be hosting its annual Fright Nights. This will be every weekend though the month of October.

With eight Top 5 singles, six No. 1s, and 1 Billion career on-demand streams under his belt, Atkins is one of Country musics most prominent artists. Continuing to be recognized as a powerful voice on Country radio, his Platinum-selling No. 1 Watching You earned the songwriter a BMI Million-Air award and the top spot on Country Airchecks top-played songs of the decade list. Atkins was the second most-played male artist of the decade overall. He has also sold over 11 million units and earned ten career Gold, Platinum and Multi-Platinum RIAA certifications to date, including his latest Gold-certified single, Caught Up In The Country (feat. The Fisk Jubilee Singers), which also set the record for longest-running single in Billboard Country Airplay history at 57 weeks. Atkins recently performed on NBCs TODAY Show, GMAs Strahan & Sara, and FOX & Friends.

Paradise Market, hosted by Bloom Events, makes its grand debut this spring on the front lawn of Camp Margaritaville Pigeon Forge! Explore 70+ curated vendors featuring boutique fashion, artisan goods, permanent jewelry, and more. Free and open to the public and resort guests. Day guests: $5 Parking

Experience a day hike regardless of ability or accessibility. Adaptive equipment will be available to borrow, and volunteers to assist with navigating trails. Offered in partnership with Catalyst Sports. Free. Porters Creek Trail, Tenn. To learn more or register, visit CatalystSports.org/great-smoky-mountain-adaptive-hike-bike.

Join us for an indulgent pairing experience on the Rocky Top Wine Trail. What you'll get: 1 glass of wine/hard cider per location (3 total) 1 dessert per location (3 total) 2 free wine/hard cider samples per location You can start the event at Mountain Valley Winery, Hillside Winery, or Apple Barn Hard Cider Company. Must be 21 years or older to participate with a valid photo ID. Event is held rain or shine, all sales are final.

During the month of October, things get spooky at Moonshine Mountain Coaster in Gatlinburg! The coaster ride turns haunted every weekend in October plus the last full week of October. Be sure to stop in and see whats lurking in the holler.

Christmas takes over Dolly Parton's Stampede during November and December. Your experience begins in our non-alcoholic saloon where you will enjoy special entertainment from our house band Mountain Ruckus. They will perform holiday favorites and add a mixture of comedy. During the main show, the cast, including 32 magnificent horses, takes you on a nostalgic holiday trip with a friendly North Pole - South Pole rivalry. Watch in delight as the Sugar Plum Fairy brings toys to life right before your eyes.  Our live nativity scene, which includes three kings arriving atop real camels, brings the true meaning of Christmas to life. Santa himself will also make an appearance in a horse drawn sleigh. You will enjoy all the holiday entertainment while dining on our famous four-course meal that includes our own original creamy vegetable soup, hot homemade biscuits, tender whole rotisserie chicken, hickory smoked pork loin, buttery corn on the cob, herb basted potato, flaky apply pastry, and unlimited tea, coffee or Coca-Cola products.

Every year, the Pigeon Forge Community Center hosts a safe, non-scary event for families to go trick or treating. At the event you’ll find vendors from local Pigeon Forge businesses offering candy for the kids. Some of the vendors will have some fun displays and interactive elements for you and the family to enjoy too! This event takes place at the Pigeon Forge Community Center the weekend before Halloween. This event is totally free, and a must-attend tradition of the Pigeon Forge Community. Safety Day: 3:00 pm to 7:00 pm Spooktacular: 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm

Through the month of October, Ripley's Haunted Adventure will be hosting its annual Fright Nights. This will be every weekend though the month of October.

🔦 The lights are dim, the screams are louder, and Fright Nights are BACK at Ripley's Haunted Adventure! 👻 Join us every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday in October for more scares, more screams, and more terrifying twists around every corner. As if surviving wasn't enough, you'll also receive a FREE gift with ticket purchase! 🎁 Do you dare enter? 😱

Celebrate years of colorful fun at the Color Me Mutt® 5K & 1-Mile Fun Run/Walk on Saturday, October 31, 2026, at NASCAR SpeedPark in Sevierville! This vibrant, pet friendly event is open to all ages and fitness levels - whether you're running with your pup or walking with friends. Enjoy color stations, water stops for humans and dogs, and the joy of supporting a great cause. Hosted by the PARC Foundation, proceeds benefit pet and community initiatives. Race begins at 8:30 AM dogs are welcome but not required!

Fantasy Forge Book Con is a celebration of fantasy romance where readers, authors, and creators come together to share their love of stories. This immersive event blends a welcoming, community focused atmosphere with engaging experiences, panels, and opportunities to connect with fellow book lovers. Rooted in the Southeast, Fantasy Forge creates a cozy and inclusive space where creativity thrives and friendships are formed. Whether you’re discovering new authors, meeting fellow fans, or diving deeper into the world of fantasy romance, this bookish gathering is designed to spark connection and celebrate the magic of storytelling.

A fantastic FREE family Halloween Trick or Treating event from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. on October 31. Fun for visiting guests and local residents – contests, costumed characters, candy and more await guests who attend this annual Halloween extravaganza. Festival locations will be at Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies Plaza in Gatlinburg. The costume contest will begin at 2 PM on the Aquarium Plaza. After the Trick or Treat Carnival, take a quick break to get ready for the regular Trick or Treating festivities in Downtown Gatlinburg.

Raise a glass to fall in the Smokies! Join us on October 31 for Gatlinburg SkyPark’s Second Annual BrOO Fest, a one-day celebration of craft brewing culture from the Great Smoky Mountains, set against our unbeatable mountain views. What to Expect Stroll through festive vendor tents and sample a variety of beers from regional favorites: Iron Forge Brewery Gatlinburg Brewing Company More to come! Tastings can be purchased at Smoky Mountain Sips the day of your visit. (Pricing Coming Soon) Found a new favorite? We’ll have full pours available at the bar, so you can settle in with a pint and savor the moment. Why You’ll Love It A curated lineup of local craft brews Scenic mountain vistas as your tasting-room backdrop Relaxed festival atmosphere with plenty of room to explore the park Good to Know Date: October 31, 2:00pm - 5:00pm Admission: Tastings purchased on-site Full Pours: Available at Smoky Mountain Sips Age Requirement: Guests must be 21+ with a valid ID to sample or purchase alcoholic beverages. Come for the views, stay for the brews, make BrOO Fest your new Smoky Mountain fall tradition.

Step right up! Step right up! Join us for the annual Halloween Trick or Treat at The Island in Pigeon Forge. Enjoy free Trick or Treating Halloween night at The Island In Pigeon Forge from 5-7 PM. This event is fun, family friendly and a safe way to spend Halloween!

This Halloween, The Sevier County Sheriff's Office would like to once again, offer a free and safe environment for the youth of Sevier County to spend their Halloween night. This year's Spooktacular Block Party will be held on Halloween from 5:00 pm - 8:00 pm. This Spooktacular, provided by Sevier County Sheriff's Office is offered at no cost for Sevier County residents to attend with their entire families. Children will have the opportunity to trick or treat with local fire, police, ems, government agencies, and special business partners that work within Sevier County. Expect games, mazes and other kids’ activities at this free event. The block party will be centered around the courthouse (125 Court Avenue) in downtown Sevierville.

The Townsend Grains & Grits Festival is a festival of southern spirits and gourmet grub. Come experience our thriving craft spirits and gourmet food community, while discovering some of the region’s legendary distillers and blenders, taking place in the Peaceful Side of the Smokies. Tickets will go on sale Saturday, August 1st- 8:00am

The Cades Cove Loop Lope is the only organized footrace held inside Great Smoky Mountains National Park, to benefit Friends of the Smokies. All funds raised benefit park projects and programs such as historic preservation, wildlife conservation, native plant and grassland restoration, and much more. There are two course options, a 5K or a USATF Certified 10-Mile Loop. Participation is limited to 800 total runners. If you can’t make it to Cades Cove on race day or the race is already sold out, but you still want to support the park, sign up for the Virtual Race! A virtual race can be run (or walked!) anytime, anywhere, even indoors or on a treadmill. Virtual runners will receive a race t-shirt and finisher’s medallion via mail, however, they will not be eligible for awards. Carpooling is essential to maximizing participation in this race. A limited number of vehicle passes will be available for purchase for an additional fee. Registrants who do not purchase a vehicle pass must either carpool with a passholder they know or utilize the group transportation option from the Townsend Visitors Center.

Gatlinburg will proudly host its Annual Veterans Day Celebration on November 11, at Mills Auditorium at the Gatlinburg Convention Center. Beginning at 11:00 a.m. The community-wide event will honor the courage, dedication and sacrifice of America’s military veterans and their families. There will be FREE PARKING at 309 Reagan Drive in Gatlinburg. The Veterans Day Celebration is free and open to the public. Guests are encouraged to arrive early and join the community in showing gratitude to those who have bravely defended our nation’s freedoms. Looking for ways to save during your Veterans Day visit? Explore our Gatlinburg military discounts page to find special offers on lodging, attractions, dining, and more that's available exclusively for active-duty military, veterans, and their families.

Get ready to bundle up, sip something warm, and feel the magic in the mountain air because the Annual Gatlinburg Winter Festival & Chili Cook-off is back and on the Parkway for a celebration that’s as heartwarming as it is dazzling! As twilight falls, downtown Gatlinburg transforms into a sparkling wonderland, glowing with over one million twinkling LED lights that dance across the night sky. Take a stroll along the Parkway from Mountain Mall to Gatlinburg SkyPark and take in the sights, sounds, and scents of the season. This street-style festival brings live music and entertainment, where the rhythms of the holidays echo through the crisp mountain air. Let your inner child run free at the ice skating rink, giggle your way through the whimsical inflatable maze, and warm your heart with the carolers spreading cheer along the way. Don’t miss the Christmas Tree Farm and Photos with Santa, where twinkling lights and merry smiles make memories you’ll cherish forever. All along the Parkway, you’ll find carnival games, festive photo ops, and even a giant inflatable snow globe that feels straight out of a storybook. And of course, no Gatlinburg celebration would be complete without something to take home — browse cozy event sweatshirts and t-shirts, perfect for remembering your magical mountain night. This event is FREE and open to everyone, so gather your loved ones and join us for an evening that captures the very heart of the holidays - a place where the lights shine brighter, the chili tastes sweeter, and the memories last a lifetime.

Winterfest Christmas Village Just steps away from the Winterfest Wonders of Light Walking Trail, the Christmas Village brings handcrafted gifts, festive treats, and a small town holiday charm to Pigeon Forge Winterfest. Browse one-of-a-kind finds from local makers and soak in the season at this cozy corner of the celebration. Open November 13-15 and November 20-28. Interested in becoming a vendor? More than 40 artisans join the Christmas Village each year, reaching thousands of guests who visit Pigeon Forge during Winterfest. Vendor applications are now open, and SPACE is LIMITED.

Pigeon Forge's annual Winterfest Kickoff Celebration returns this year at Patriot Park in the heart of Pigeon Forge, TN. Festivities begin at 3:00 PM and include free, family-friendly entertainment, seasonal food trucks, and holiday vendors offering festive treats and gifts. As evening falls, the city will come to life with the illumination of more than six million twinkling lights, followed by a dazzling fireworks display to officially launch the Winterfest season. Admission to the event is free, and parking is available at the Municipal and Mountain parking lots located off Teaster Lane. The Winterfest light displays will remain on through mid-February, making this one of the Southeast's most spectacular holiday traditions. More information will be posted as it becomes available.

Join us for a quieter experience at Ripley's Aquarium! Several days throughout the year, Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies in Gatlinburg hosts sensory-friendly events which offer welcoming lighting, a music-free environment, and a quiet room for guests who require a break. During these events, all programs, dive shows and exhibits are open. Families receive $3.00 off admission – just mention "Sensory Nights" at our admission windows to receive discount. Sensory-Friendly Mornings & Nights: Some sensory friendly days run from 9:00 am to 10:30 am, and others take place from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm. For specific details, please visit the Ripley's Aquarium website.

Every year hundreds of fans pour into the Gatlinburg Convention Center to come to the Christmas In The Smokies Bluegrass Festival. While the bluegrass festival is enough fun for anyone, there is so much more to offer in Pigeon Forge! The festival is held in the heart of Pigeon Forge on Parkway. The whole city is decorated for Christmas and sparkles everywhere you go at night. There is lots of shopping, food, and fun in Pigeon Forge. Come join us this year at the festival!

Winterfest Christmas Village Just steps away from the Winterfest Wonders of Light Walking Trail, the Christmas Village brings handcrafted gifts, festive treats, and a small town holiday charm to Pigeon Forge Winterfest. Browse one-of-a-kind finds from local makers and soak in the season at this cozy corner of the celebration. Open November 13-15 and November 20-28. Interested in becoming a vendor? More than 40 artisans join the Christmas Village each year, reaching thousands of guests who visit Pigeon Forge during Winterfest. Vendor applications are now open, and SPACE is LIMITED.

Calling all Grease fans! Celebrate the holiday season with the first-ever Grease Holiday Cast Tour in Gatlinburg. Meet original cast members Lorenzo Lamas (Tom), Barry Pearl (Doody), Michael Tucci (Sonny), and Jamie Donnelly (Jan) during special meet-and-greet sessions, then make the experience even more memorable with an exclusive evening dinner featuring Southern barbecue, a Grease Sing-A-Long, and time with the cast. Whether you're a lifelong fan of the iconic film or simply looking for a unique holiday event, this two-day celebration offers photo opportunities, music, film screenings, and plenty of nostalgic fun. Please note that autographs and selfies are available for an additional fee and are not included with admission. Don't miss your chance to relive one of cinema's most beloved musicals with the stars who helped make it a classic.

Millions of lights. Custom decorations. More than a mile of garland. Endless entertainment. Winterfest at The Island in Pigeon Forge is unlike any experience in the Smokies with millions of lights, our 23-acre property lights up as the sun goes down to create a holiday ambiance you're sure to love. The Christmas tree will be lit with Santa to officially kickoff Winterfest at The Island at 8:00 pm. Join us for a free concert beginning at 7 pm and the tree lighting at 8 pm. Photos With Santa: In addition to the tree lighting and live entertainment, Island guests will have the opportunity to capture a photo with Santa from 5:00 to 10:00 pm, and he will be available in front of the Great Smoky Mountain Wheel several other dates in November and December for photo ops as well. All rides, shops, and restaurants on The Island will be open for guest enjoyment. There is no fee for parking, with tram service running from the parking lot on The Island Drive at regular intervals, and there is no cost to attend.

Paradise Market, hosted by Bloom Events, makes its grand debut this spring on the front lawn of Camp Margaritaville Pigeon Forge! Explore 70+ curated vendors featuring boutique fashion, artisan goods, permanent jewelry, and more. Free and open to the public and resort guests. Day guests: $5 Parking

Visit Santa Claus at The Island to share your Christmas wishes and take unforgettable photos. Available on select days, celebrate this magical holiday tradition here in the Smoky Mountains with your family. Look for Santa near The Great Smoky Mountain Wheel. Be sure to stop by and share your Christmas wish with Santa from 5:00 to 10:00 pm on November 21 as part of The Island's Winterfest Kickoff event.⁠

The 2026 Gatlinburg Festival of Trees features a children’s craft and play area, photos with Santa Claus and, of course, beautifully decorated Christmas trees and wreaths. The proceeds from the 53rd annual Gatlinburg Festival of Trees will benefit the Boys & Girls Club of the Smoky Mountains and the Gatlinburg Chamber of Commerce Foundation. The funding supports programs and scholarships for the children of people who live and work in Sevier County. The festival is free and hours are listed below: Wednesday, Nov 25 – Saturday, Nov 28: 10 am to 7 pm Sunday, Nov 29: 10 am to 5 pm For a special preview, the “Candy Canes and Cocktails” event on Tuesday, November 24 at 6 p.m. offers a first look at the festival and a chance to buy trees, wreaths, and decorations, with a silent auction, signature cocktails by Ole Smoky Moonshine, and hors d’oeuvres by KBS Catering. Tickets for Candy Canes and Cocktails are $50 and available online.

Join us for a quieter experience at Ripley's Aquarium! Several days throughout the year, Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies in Gatlinburg hosts sensory-friendly events which offer welcoming lighting, a music-free environment, and a quiet room for guests who require a break. During these events, all programs, dive shows and exhibits are open. Families receive $3.00 off admission – just mention "Sensory Nights" at our admission windows to receive discount. Sensory-Friendly Mornings & Nights: Some sensory friendly days run from 9:00 am to 10:30 am, and others take place from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm. For specific details, please visit the Ripley's Aquarium website.

Santa in the Smokies Presented by LL Bean | Free Photos with Santa at NOC Gatlinburg Come celebrate the magic of the season at NOC Gatlinburg with Santa at the fireplace! Gather around the cozy hearth for a festive experience featuring free photos with Santa—just bring your own phone or camera to capture the moment. Enjoy a heartwarming Christmas book reading, perfect for kids and families, and soak in the holiday spirit while checking off your gift list with some seasonal shopping. It’s a joyful, family-friendly event that’s sure to get everyone in the Christmas mood! ALL DAY Holiday Shopping Specials Get your Christmas shopping done early at our festive store, featuring top outdoor industry brands, local crafts, and toys for all the good boys and girls. Shop while making new holiday memories! 12pm Story Time with Santa Gather around the cozy fire on the first floor for a magical story time with Santa to kick off the festivities. 12 – 4pm Ornament Decorating  Get in the holiday spirit! Decorate ornaments to hang on the NOC Gatlinburg tree or take one home. 12:15 – 4pm Free Photos with Santa Capture the moment! Each family gets 5 minutes with Santa to take their own photos using a personal camera or phone.  (Please note: NOC does not provide a photographer for the event).

Christmas events highlight the joys of the season. Downtown Sevierville offers plenty of holiday merriment the first weekend of December. On Thursday, December 3, enjoy an old-fashioned tree lighting at the Sevier County Courthouse complete with children’s crafts, photos with Santa, delicious holiday snacks and music during Christmas at the Courthouse from 5:30pm until 8:30pm EST.

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. BUY GRANDSTAND TICKETS 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.