During the holiday season, people from all over are looking for the best destinations to spend the holidays with their loved ones. One of the best places to enjoy your Christmas this year is Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge, where you can celebrate the Winterfest lights event.
What Is Winterfest?
Winterfest is when the entire Smoky Mountain region transforms into a dazzling wonderland, and it’s one of our favorite times of the year. This beloved festival brings the season to life as millions of twinkling holiday lights drape the mountain towns of Pigeon Forge, Sevierville, and Gatlinburg. It’s a magical celebration that runs through the entire winter season, inviting families to experience the holiday spirit in a truly special way. Winterfest brings festive lights and events to the Smokies, creating an unforgettable holiday experience.
When Is Winterfest Scheduled?
The 2021-22 Winterfest event in the Smoky Mountains is scheduled to run from November 11 to February 15, 2022. During this period, you can treat yourself and your family to a host of events and shows to light your Christmas spirit.
Stay tuned for the 2025-26 dates!
Each town offers unique holiday charm, easily explored from our resort. We recommend guests discover each area’s distinct appeal.
- Pigeon Forge: This is the heart of the celebration, featuring millions of lights and enchanting displays. You can drive the parkway to see giant, animated displays of Smoky Mountain wildlife and favorite holiday scenes. Don’t miss the chance to visit Dollywood’s Smoky Mountain Christmas, a world-class festival with over 6 million lights, festive shows, and holiday treats.
- Sevierville: As the hometown of Dolly Parton, Sevierville shines bright with its own unique displays. The Sevierville Shines light show illuminates the night, especially around the iconic courthouse. It’s a wonderful, charming drive that captures the spirit of a classic mountain community Christmas.
- Gatlinburg: This charming mountain town becomes a cozy village straight from a storybook. Gatlinburg’s Winter Magic features beautiful, custom-designed light displays and decorated trees throughout downtown. We highly recommend taking a ride on Gatlinburg SkyPark’s SkyBridge, which is lit up and offers breathtaking views of the sparkling town below.
How Can I Enjoy Winterfest in Pigeon Forge?
There are several fun events held during the Smoky Mountains Winterfest. They include:
- Listen to live music in Smokies Bluegrass Festival: Bluegrass bands come together for a multi-day music festival every year around the beginning of December. The festival is held at the Stone Hill Lodge, with tickets at $25-$35. You can buy advanced reserved tickets for $125.
- Attend Gatlinburg’s Festival of Trees: This festival is a family-friendly event featuring children’s craft and play areas, entertainment, photo sessions with Santa Claus, and decorated Christmas trees for sale.
- Go ice skating at Wilderness at the Smokies: Every year, the Wilderness at Smokies is transformed into a winter wonderland featuring an outdoor ice skating rink. The rink covers 3200 square feet of space and is open to guests and the public.
- Check out the Winterfest at The Island in Pigeon Forge: During Christmas, this island comes to life with millions of Winterfest lights, creating the perfect holiday ambiance. Entry is free, meaning you can enjoy the festivities, take photos and shop at your pleasure.
4 Ways to See Winterfest Lights in Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg
The Winterfest lights are the highlight of the Winterfest events. To see and experience these lights, you can:
- Rent a jeep: Rent a jeep and take a scenic ride through the mountains where you can take in the view
- Rednecks: The Rednecks comedy bus Christmas lights tour is one of the best options for guests and residents who enjoy rowdy Redneck Christmas carols as they see their favorite Christmas light displays.
- Go for a stroll: With the right footwear, you can take a walk around Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg and take in the fantastic light displays.
- Get a new perspective: Riding the wheel at The Island is also a fun way of getting a bird’s-eye view of the Winterfest light displays.
Spend the Holidays at Oak Haven Resort
There’s no better way to experience the magic of Winterfest than from a cozy cabin. Return to Oakhaven Resort after exploring the holiday lights, relax by the fire, and create lasting family memories. We’re located just minutes from all the best light displays, offering the perfect home base for your holiday adventure. Book your winter stay with us today and get ready to be captivated by the most wonderful time of the year in the Smoky Mountains.
Looking for the perfect Christmas or holiday getaway? With cabins up to seven bedrooms, we can provide lodging for the whole family, so you have a warm and cozy place to sit by the fireplace after participating in all the fun winter activities the Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg area has to offer. Book your cabin today!
