smoky mountains

4 Fun Things to Do During Winterfest in the Smoky Mountains

santa lights smoky mountains
December 14, 2023

Each winter, families come to the Smokies to get into the holiday spirit and enjoy all of the festivities that Winterfest in the Smoky Mountains has to offer! When this magical time of year comes around, the area’s attractions, cabins, restaurants, and more get into the spirit of the season with festive lights, holiday music, and lots more. If you are planning to visit the Smokies this winter, you won’t want to miss out on these fantastic things to do during Winterfest in the Smoky Mountains:

1. Do the Winterfest Driving Tour of Lights

winterfest driving tour of lights

One of the most popular things to do during Winterfest in the Smoky Mountains is to take the Winterfest Driving Tour of Lights, which brings you past gorgeous illuminated scenes throughout Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg. There’s nothing quite like piling the whole family into the car, cranking some Christmas tunes, and maybe even enjoying some hot cocoa along the way as you admire the twinkling lights scattered throughout the beauty of the Smoky Mountains.

2. See Lights Over Gatlinburg

Another great way to celebrate the season during Winterfest in the Smoky Mountains is to check out Lights Over Gatlinburg at the Gatlinburg SkyPark. This exciting event allows visitors to take in the sights of Gatlinburg from above, while enjoying the spectacle of lights throughout the park. Even North America’s longest pedestrian cable bridge, the Gatlinburg SkyBridge, is decked out with lights for the holiday season! If you are looking for an activity that combines holiday spirit with unbeatable views, you won’t want to miss out on Lights Over Gatlinburg.

3. Check Out Smoky Mountain Christmas at Dollywood

christmas decor at dollywood

Among the most popular events that take place during Winterfest in the Smoky Mountains, Smoky Mountain Christmas at Dollywood is a great way to get festive when you come to visit during the holiday season. With seasonal tunes throughout the park, lots of exciting decorations, and a brand-new nighttime drone light show, the whole family will have a great time when you stop by Dollywood this holiday season.

4. Go to Christmas Shows in the Area

Pigeon Forge is famous for its entertaining and unique dinner shows, and the holidays are a great time to stop by! Many of the area’s most popular shows offer Christmas versions of their usual show, such as Christmas Chaos at the Hatfield & McCoy Dinner Feud, the Christmas Show at Country Tonite, and lots more. If you have a favorite show here in the Smoky Mountains, chances are they are getting into the holiday spirit during Winterfest!

When you spend time exploring some of these incredible things to do during Winterfest in the Smoky Mountains, you will be sure to experience lots of holiday cheer and make some unforgettable memories along the way. If you are ready to plan your very own trip to the Smokies this winter, don’t wait! Lodging can fill up during this popular time of year, so make sure to check out our selection of Smoky Mountains cabins today and find the perfect place to stay this holiday season.