Christmas in Pigeon Forge: 16 Festive Activities to Brighten Your Season

Dreaming of a White Christmas? Revel in soft falling snowflakes, Santa encounters, and candy canes galore when you do Christmas in Pigeon Forge. A far cry from the frigid North Pole, visiting the Smoky Mountains from early November through the new year guarantees a hearty helping of holiday spirit.

Imagine a holiday getaway like no other, nestled in the charming heart of the Smoky Mountains. Christmas at Pigeon Forge is a winter wonderland, where twinkling lights and festive decorations turn the town into a holiday masterpiece.

From enchanting parades to captivating shows, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Discover the magic of Dolly Parton’s celebrated theme park, or immerse yourself in the heartfelt stories told through the local theater productions.

The best part? We’ve got a ton of Pigeon Forge Christmas packages to make your holiday both affordable and enjoyable!

Don’t forget a cozy evening with family, sipping hot cocoa and taking in the breathtaking light displays. It’s the perfect spot to create unforgettable Pigeon Forge Christmas memories!

Things To Do in Pigeon Forge at Christmas

Step into a winter wonderland this holiday season and discover the magic of Christmas in Pigeon Forge. From jolly events to festive parades, there’s something enchanting for everyone to enjoy.

Dollywood’s Smoky Mountain Christmas

Where: Dollywood, Pigeon Forge, TN

When: November 1, 2024 – January 5, 2025

Get ready to be dazzled! Dollywood transforms into a sparkling winter wonderland with over six million twinkling lights, creating a magical backdrop for unforgettable family fun. From towering Christmas trees to award winning shows, there’s something for everyone. As the sun sets, prepare to be amazed by a breathtaking drone show that’ll leave you starry-eyed.

Explore different themed areas, each with its own festive flair, from Santa’s Village to the icy wonderland of Glacier Ridge. Savor delicious holiday treats and soak up the heartwarming spirit of Christmas with shows like “Christmas in the Smokies” and the outdoor extravaganza “Appalachian Christmas.” Dollywood s Smoky Mountain Christmas holiday is an experience you won’t want to miss!

Titanic Museum Pigeon Forge Christmas Decoration

Where: Titanic Museum, 2134 Parkway, Pigeon Forge, TN

When: Dates for 2024 to be announced

Every year, the Titanic Museum transforms into a dazzling winter wonderland, decked out in elegant Edwardian Christmas splendor. Imagine exploring the iconic ship while surrounded by shimmering lights and festive decorations. It’s like stepping into a real-life holiday card!

Perfect for history buffs and families alike, this unique experience combines fascinating history with the magic of the season. Don’t miss out on this unforgettable adventure!

Polar Express Train Ride

Where: Great Smoky Mountains Railroad, 45 Mitchell Street, Bryson City, NC

When: November 7 – December 31, 2024

Imagine a magical journey to the North Pole on board the Polar Express! Enjoy hot cocoa and a sweet treat while the beloved story unfolds to the enchanting music of the movie. The excitement reaches its peak when Santa Claus himself boards the train, surprising children with their very own silver sleigh bell.

Sing along to Christmas carols on the journey back to Bryson City Depot, filled with the warmth of the holiday spirit. This unforgettable train ride is a must-do for families seeking a truly magical Christmas experience.

christmas lights at dollywood's grist mill

Gatlinburg’s Festival of Trees

Where: W.L. Mills Conference Center, Gatlinburg, TN

When: November 27 – December 1, 2024, 10:00 am – 7:00 pm

Get ready to be enchanted by the Gatlinburg Festival of Trees! This magical event features a dazzling display of beautifully decorated Christmas trees and wreaths that will leave you breathless.

While enjoying the festive atmosphere, you’re also supporting a wonderful cause – the Boys & Girls Club of the Smoky Mountains and the Gatlinburg Chamber of Commerce Foundation. Bring the whole family to enjoy fun crafts, playtime, and taking pictures with Santa!

Gatlinburg Christmas Parade

Where: Downtown Gatlinburg, TN

When: December 6, 2024, 7:30 pm – 9:00 pm

Gatlinburg’s famous Christmas parade is a must-see, featuring a spectacular lineup of floats, marching bands, and giant balloons. The grand finale? A visit from Santa Claus himself! Don’t miss this award-winning event that’s entertained millions!

Grab your favorite people, bundle up, and claim your spot along the Parkway for a night of lights, music, and pure holiday magic.

Winter Smoky Mountain Tunes & Tales

Where: Downtown Gatlinburg, TN

When: November 29 – December 21, 2024, 6:00 pm – 11:00 pm (Friday and Saturday evenings)

Winter Smoky Mountain Tunes & Tales brings the spirit of Christmas to life with live music, storytelling, and festive fun. Wander through the twinkling lights of downtown Gatlinburg while enjoying the sounds of Appalachia, bluegrass, and country music.

Meet your favorite holiday characters and get caught up in the holiday cheer. It’s the perfect way to create lasting memories with family and friends!

Float from gatlinburg christmas parade
photo credit: Visit Gatlinburg via Facebook

Sevierville Christmas Parade

Where: Starts at First Baptist Church Sevierville, Forks of the River Parkway

When: December 7, 2024, 11:00 am – 1:00 pm

Join the festive cheer at Sevierville’s 62nd annual Christmas Parade, a community tradition that brings together residents and visitors alike. Kicking off at 11:00 am, the parade route begins at the First Baptist Church parking lot, making its way through the heart of Sevierville. Spectators can watch a procession of floats, bands, and dancers parade north on Forks of the River Parkway, then turn onto Main Street and Court Avenue before looping back.

This traditional parade route is a local holiday highlight, perfect for families looking to enjoy a morning filled with joy and community spirit. Arrive early to grab a good viewing spot and immerse yourself in the vibrant local culture and holiday festivities.

The Incredible Christmas Place

Where: 2470 Parkway, Pigeon Forge, TN

When: Open Year-Round

Discover the magic of Christmas year-round at The Incredible Christmas Place in Pigeon Forge. As the largest Christmas shopping village in the South, it offers an enchanting array of ornaments, lights, and holiday décor. Families and Christmas enthusiasts will revel in the festive atmosphere, where every corner sparkles with holiday spirit.

From personalized ornaments to custom wreaths, find everything you need to decorate your home. Don’t miss the stunning outdoor displays and the chance to meet Santa in the summer! This is the perfect spot for anyone looking to keep the Christmas cheer alive throughout the year.

Pigeon Forge Tennessee Christmas Shows and Theaters

As the holiday season rolls in, there’s no better way to celebrate than by catching shows in Pigeon Forge. The local theaters deck their halls with festive decorations and bring out their best holiday performances, making it an unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages.

Dolly Parton’s Stampede: Christmas at Dolly Parton’s Stampede is a festive feast and thrilling holiday show at 3849 Parkway, Pigeon Forge, TN. Witness horse riding stunts mixed with Yuletide cheer! The arena spectacularly transforms into a winter wonderland with snowfall, elves, and joyful tunes.

Hatfield & McCoy Dinner Feud: Experience a Christmas version of the famous family feud at 119 Music Rd, Pigeon Forge, TN. Dinner and laughs guaranteed! The show blends humor with festive songs and stunts, making it a holiday treat for all ages.

Pirates Voyage Dinner & Show: Set sail for a swashbuckling Christmas spectacle at 2713 Parkway, Pigeon Forge, TN. Enjoy a pirate feast and an epic holiday adventure! Watch as pirates compete in Christmas-themed challenges, with a special appearance by Santa Claus himself.

Paula Deen’s Lumberjack Feud Supper Show: Join festive lumberjack competitions at 2530 Parkway, Pigeon Forge, TN. A hearty meal and holiday spirit abound! This unique Christmas show features lumberjacks in flannel decking the halls with feats of strength and agility.

A Savior Has Come: Reflect and celebrate at The Biblical Times Dinner Theater, 2391 Parkway, Pigeon Forge, TN. A musical tale celebrating the true meaning of Christmas. This inspiring performance combines live actors with holographic technology to tell a poignant biblical story.

Related Post: Save Big at WonderWorks Pigeon Forge Coupons: 4 Easy Ways to Slash Prices by Up to 20%

Lights and More Christmas Activities in Pigeon Forge

When it comes to Christmas lights, Pigeon Forge and the surrounding areas truly know how to put on a spectacular show. Below are some of the top spots to catch these dazzling lights during this time of year:

Winterfest Driving Tour Of Lights: From November 7, 2024, to February 16, 2025, experience over 5 million holiday lights along Pigeon Forge Parkway. This annual event transforms Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg into a glowing winter wonderland. Perfect for families and first-time visitors, it’s a magical way to share special moments.

Gatlinburg Winter Magic: Running from November 8, 2024, to February 12, 2025, explore Gatlinburg’s festive lights and displays. Enjoy the unique Snowpeople Scavenger Hunt by downloading the Visit Gatlinburg app and discovering 43 life-size snowpeople around the city. This enchanting tour is ideal for holiday enthusiasts and families.

The Island Tree Lighting: On Saturday, November 16, 2024, visit The Island in Pigeon Forge for a spectacular tree lighting event. Marvel at millions of lights, custom decorations, and over a mile of garland. Enjoy live entertainment and photos with Santa from 3:00 pm to 8:00 pm. This festive occasion is perfect for capturing holiday memories with family and friends.

a wide image of a road with green Christmas lights and Christmas Tree on the opposite side.
photo credit: My Pigeon Forge via Facebook

Things To Do in Pigeon Forge During Christmas FAQS

Yes, it can be quite cold in Pigeon Forge in December. The average high for December through February stays around 50 degrees, and the average low is about 25 degrees. Visitors should dress warmly to enjoy outdoor holiday activities comfortably.

You can see Christmas lights in Pigeon Forge from early November through the end of February. This extended display period offers plenty of time to enjoy the festive illuminations.

Enjoy Christmas Things To Do in Pigeon Forge With Tripster!

Get ready for a sleigh-full of fun! Our exclusive deals on hotels, activities, and vacation packages will make your Pigeon Forge Christmas unforgettable. Immerse yourself in a winter wonderland of twinkling lights, dazzling holiday shows, and festive cheer.

Plus, our travel guide is your secret weapon for planning the perfect holiday getaway. Book now so you can focus on the fun!

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