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Smoky Mountain Winterfest lights

5 of the Best Ways to Celebrate Christmas in the Smokies

December 6, 2023

If you are coming to the Smoky Mountains this holiday season, you are in for a treat! There are so many fun ways to celebrate Christmas in the Smokies, as the area’s towns, attractions, and more get into the holiday spirit. Here are just some of the best ways to celebrate Christmas in the Smokies when you come to visit during this magical time of year:

1. Smoky Mountain Christmas at Dollywood

One of the most popular ways to celebrate Christmas in the Smokies is to head over to Dollywood for their annual Smoky Mountain Christmas event. This family-favorite event has been running for over a decade and provides an abundance of festive cheer for everyone who visits! Stroll past decorated Christmas trees, millions of lights, and witness an all-new Christmas drone light show. There’s truly no end to the seasonal fun at Dollywood!

2. Winterfest at The Island

island christmasAnother great way to celebrate Christmas in the Smokies is to go to Winterfest at The Island in Pigeon Forge! With an enormous Christmas tree, festive decorations, and over a mile of garland, it’s no wonder that this event is a popular way to get into the holiday spirit here in the Smoky Mountains. And of course, on top of the seasonal festivities, you can enjoy all of the shops and rides that make The Island in Pigeon Forge such a great destination for families.

3. Anakeesta’s Enchanted Christmas

Once the sun sets, Anakeesta’s Enchanted Christmas event comes to life with millions of lights placed across the mountaintop, music ringing from Black Bear Village, and immersive displays throughout the park. Enjoy classic Anakeesta activities during the day such as ziplining and riding the mountain coaster, then get ready to take part in one of the best celebrations of Christmas in the Smokies!

4. Winterfest Driving Tour of Lights

winterfest driving tour of lights

Another popular event that takes place to celebrate Christmas in the Smokies is the Winterfest Driving Tour of Lights. With millions of lights placed around the area to create festive scenery and mesmerizing displays, this is an adventure that the whole family is sure to love. Discover light-covered bridges, classic Christmas tales, and more, all while enjoying the comfort of your vehicle. Bring along some hot cocoa, throw on some Christmas tunes, and get ready for a memorable holiday experience!

5. Christmas-Themed Shows

If you enjoy seeing the fun and exciting shows that regularly take place here in the Smoky Mountains, you’re in luck because there are Christmas versions of many of these shows that you can enjoy during the holiday season! For instance, head over to Country Tonite to see the Christmas version of their family-favorite show and rock out to classic Christmas tunes done Country-style. Or stop by the Comedy Barn for an evening of laughs and holiday cheer with their Christmas show! You’ll be guaranteed a fun night out when you check out some of the area’s festive Christmas shows.

These are just a few of the ways that you can celebrate Christmas in the Smokies when you come to visit during this special time of year. If you want to come and enjoy this magical celebration, make sure to check out our selection of cabins in the Smoky Mountains and book your stay before spots fill up!