Pigeon Forge in the Smoky Mountains is a great destination for year-round fun, and winter is no exception. From November through mid-February every year, Pigeon Forge’s annual Winterfest celebrates the Tennessee winter wonderland, with light displays, events, parades and more drawing thousands of visitors to Pigeon Forge for the holiday season each year. It is a magical celebration of the holiday season featuring millions of twinkling lights, festive displays, and family-friendly events. If you’re thinking of visiting the Smokies during this time of year, here are some of our top reasons you should visit Pigeon Forge for Winterfest!
Incredible Light Displays
One of the biggest draws of Winterfest is the impressive display of over 5 million lights spread around the area. From November through mid-February, Pigeon Forge has themed displays around town creating holiday cheer. The Pigeon Forge Parkway is lit up with twinkling lights and holiday displays, which you can enjoy as a driving tour, while the Pigeon Forge Riverwalk has an immersive walk-through light display that is perfect for an evening stroll. And the best part is all of these displays are totally free!
Mild Winter Weather
Pigeon Forge enjoys relatively mild winters, with temperatures in the 40s and 50s Fahrenheit, making it comfortable to enjoy outdoor activities. While it may not be cold enough to snow in town, the higher elevations in the Smokies might get a dusting of snow, creating a beautiful winter backdrop. This mild weather makes Winterfest an ideal destination if you want to experience winter fun without having to bundle up and brave the cold too much.
Holiday Parades and Events
Winterfest kicks off with a lively event at Patriot Park, featuring local vendors and entertainment as well as a fireworks show. You won’t want to miss the festivities at The Island at Pigeon Forge, where the shops and rides are decked out in holiday cheer, with live entertainment and a tree lighting ceremony. Gatlinburg’s Fantasy of Lights Parade features illuminated floats, marching bands, and Santa Claus, while smaller parades in Sevierville and Townsend bring out the small town charm.
If you’re in town for New Year’s Eve, the Island in Pigeon Forge is one of the best spots to ring in the new year with live music, fireworks, and plenty of family-friendly entertainment.
Family-friendly Activities
From parades to holiday-themed shows to free interactive holiday programs, there are plenty of activities for the whole family to enjoy during Winterfest. Enjoy the crafts and kids’ activities at the Festival of the Trees or create some holiday magic on the Polar Express Train Ride. Make special memories with a family stroll through the Wonders of Light Walking Trail or spend a magical evening enjoying the shops and amusement rides at The Island at Pigeon Forge.
Dollywood’s Smoky Mountain Christmas
During Winterfest, Dollywood transforms into a holiday dream with its Smoky Mountain Christmas celebration. The holiday spirit comes to life with twinkling lights, a giant Christmas tree and live shows like Christmas at Dolly Parton’s Stampede, a dinner show with modern holiday twists and a live nativity scene. You can also meet Rudolph and his friends or sip hot cocoa as you stroll through the beautifully decorated theme park.
Unique Holiday Shopping
Pigeon Forge is a shopper’s paradise during Winterfest, with unique stores and holiday markets where you can find special gifts. The Old Mill Square offers everything from handmade pottery to local jams and jellies. You can also visit The Christmas Place, a massive year-round Christmas store that becomes even more festive during the holiday season. For a more artsy selection, head to the Great Smoky Holiday Arts & Crafts Festival in nearby Gatlinburg, where local artisans sell handmade goods like wood carvings, quilts, and jewelry.
Winter Activities
If you want to venture outside of Pigeon Forge during Winterfest, there are plenty of winter activities in the area to keep you busy. From hiking in Great Smoky Mountains National Park to skiing at Ober Gatlinburg, there are lots of outdoor activities to choose from. Indoor attractions like museums, shopping and restaurants in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge will have you wishing you had more time to stay.
Plan Your Visit
With festive events, family-friendly activities, and easy access to winter fun, Pigeon Forge’s Winterfest is an amazing winter destination. Book your Smoky Mountain cabin rental today and enjoy cozy evenings by the fire or beautiful mountain views from a hot tub after a day enjoying the Winterfest activities. Immerse yourself in this beautiful winter celebration in the Smokies, and make this holiday season unforgettable!
