Winter Guide
Christmas and Winter in Pigeon Forge
After the leaves fall, the Smokies get quieter, cozier and covered in lights. Here is what to do from November through February, and why winter is a great time for a heated indoor pool and a rooftop fireplace.
Holiday lights and festivals
- Smoky Mountain Christmas at Dollywood (about 15 minutes): millions of lights, Christmas shows and a holiday parade, from about early November into early January.
- Winterfest: Pigeon Forge and the surrounding towns light up for the season with displays across town, roughly mid-November through February.
- The Island in Pigeon Forge (about 11 minutes): holiday lights, the Great Smoky Mountain Wheel and the fountain shows.
- Christmas dinner shows: several Pigeon Forge theaters switch to holiday shows for the season, including Dolly Parton’s Stampede.
- Gatlinburg’s Fantasy of Lights Christmas Parade in early December.
Event dates change each year, so check each organizer’s calendar before you plan around one.
Snow and winter fun
- Ober Mountain (Gatlinburg): skiing, snowboarding and snow tubing when conditions allow, plus the aerial tramway.
- Pigeon Forge Snow: indoor snow tubing that does not depend on the weather.
- The national park in winter: quieter trails and clear views once the leaves are down. Newfound Gap Road can close for snow and ice, and the road to Kuwohi (formerly Clingmans Dome) is closed through the winter, so check the park’s road status before you go.
Holiday shopping
- Tanger Outlets Sevierville for big-name outlet stores.
- The Old Mill District in Pigeon Forge for pottery, candy, the general store and a meal at The Old Mill.
- The Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community near Gatlinburg for handmade gifts from local artisans.
A cozy winter base
- Heated indoor pool: yes, you can swim in December.
- Covered rooftop hot tub beside a stone fireplace, with mountain air and a Smart TV.
- Smokeless wood-burning fire pit with Adirondack chairs.
- Full kitchen for holiday meals, with dining for 8 plus 4 at the island.
- Coffee stations on three levels and fresh Egyptian cotton linens.
Winter weather can change quickly in the mountains. Check the forecast before driving up to higher elevations.
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