It is not just Dollywood that sparkles and glimmers with Christmas lights and festive cheer during the holiday season. The entire town of Pigeon Forge and the city of Gatlinburg become winter wonderlands from November until about February.
More than 10 million people visit the area each year. I would be willing to bet that a significant portion of those people pay a visit when the Smokies are full of the yuletide magic and jolly celebrations the season brings. Almost every show, museum, store and park in the area is bedecked with glittering holiday adornments and Christmas-themed whimsy.
Here is a roundup of the region’s top holiday attractions sure to bring joy, delight and merry memories to you and your loved ones.
Pigeon Forge Winterfest
The Pigeon Forge Winterfest is an annual celebration from Nov. 7th to Feb. 16th and encompasses a host of holiday shows, light tours and events. The Wonders of Light Walking Trail opened in 2022 and features nature-themed outdoor lights. The lights are displayed on the Pigeon Forge Riverwalk Trail. The Wonders of Light Christmas Village takes place during Winterfest and spotlights artisans and crafters selling seasonal goodies and gifts. Admission is free.
Anakeesta Enchanted Christmas
Anakeesta is an isolated adventure park high up in the mountains of Gatlinburg. There are three ways to get to Anakeesta: an open chairlift, an open-air trolley called the Ridge Rambler and a chondola. The park offers spectacular views, dining, shopping, ziplining and a TreeTop Skywalk full of hanging bridges. It is currently selling seasonal tickets where you can enjoy Breakfast with Santa and gain full-day entrance to the park. Some of the entertainment for the season includes Anakeesta carolers, Holly and Jolly’s Holiday Hijinx and Toyland Tales.
Shadrack’s Christmas Wonderland
I will bet many of you have heard about this one, given that Johnson City also hosts a Shadrack’s Christmas Wonderland. The one in Johnson City is located at the Appalachian Fairgrounds “where cutting-edge technology and traditional holiday charm unite to offer an unforgettable experience.” The drive-thru light display offers an immersive, magical experience with twinkling lights synchronized to festive music. The Pigeon Forge Shadrack’s Christmas Wonderland is at Soaky Mountain Water Park. The light show is in the parking lot, and Snowy Mountain Village is open in the water park on select nights. Snowy Mountain Village features inflatable bounce houses, photo-op spots, food, carnival games, and Santa. The tickets are more expensive because of the additional attractions.
Fantasy of Lights Christmas Parade
The Fantasy of Lights Christmas Parade is on Dec. 6th from 7:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. This will be its 49th year of “ushering in the holiday season.” It is considered one of the top holiday parades in the nation. Grand Marshals and musicians Emily Ann Roberts and Colton Dixon are co-leading the event. “The parade will step-off from Baskins Creek Bypass on East Parkway, before spanning through Gatlinburg and ending at traffic light #10.” Be sure to get there early to secure parking and a seat since it is a popular event. You can find a map of the parade route on the City of Gatlinburg’s website and the option to purchase Grand Stand Seating Tickets.
Incredible Christmas Place
This last one can be enjoyed all year long because the store sells Christmas ornaments and decorations all year long. It was originally just one store packed with tons and tons of ornaments. It is now a “43,000 square-foot wonderland” emporium, and across the street is the Inn at Christmas Place, a year-round Christmas-themed inn that Santa visits regularly, according to its website. The store sells trees, lights, ornaments, ribbons and everything you need to decorate for the season. You can also shop the store online, but I highly recommend visiting in person because it is a unique experience.
On a final note, the noel season can be a fun, festive and memorable time but it is essential to remember that it can also bring about feelings of stress, sadness and isolation for some people. Not everyone celebrates Christmas and many people have lost loved ones they once cherished the season with. Let us try to remember them and cultivate empathy for those who find this a difficult time despite the festive and yuletide activities many of us hope to enjoy. Sometimes being understanding of people’s tragedies and boundaries can make a big difference in their lives because they feel cared for. Call or check in on that friend or family member you have not heard from in a while, and respect those who choose not to celebrate Christmas. Just my two cents, but either way, I hope every one of y’all truly enjoys your winter break, or if you are like me, enjoys your winter session of classes!
