5 Can’t-Miss Winter Events in Gatlinburg, TN

Are you planning a trip to Gatlinburg this winter? This mountain town comes alive during the holiday season with festive lights and lively activities, making this the perfect spot for a family Christmas vacation! Keep reading to find out more about the can’t-miss winter events in Gatlinburg this year.

1. Gatlinburg Winter Magic

From November to the beginning of February, Gatlinburg transforms into a magical winter wonderland! Gatlinburg Winter Magic is one of the top events in Gatlinburg that you won’t want to miss this holiday season! The town glows bright with millions of twinkling lights and festive holiday displays. While you drive and walk along the Parkway, you’re sure to be filled with holiday cheer as you take in the colorful sights this Christmas in Gatlinburg!

2. Enchanted Christmas at Anakeesta

Another one of the popular winter events in Gatlinburg is Enchanted Christmas at Anakeesta. This seasonal celebration illuminates the mountaintop attraction with more than a million sparkling lights, holiday decor, and plenty of Christmas spirit! You can watch heartwarming shows, enjoy festive food and drinks, and enjoy a variety of family-friendly activities in the heart of the Smokies. This festival takes place all season long from mid-November until the beginning of January.

3. Great Smoky Christmas Arts & Crafts Show

Are you looking for the perfect gift for the holiday season? The Great Smoky Christmas Arts & Crafts Show is a great opportunity to find unique, handcrafted gifts made by members of the Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community! This annual winter event in Gatlinburg takes place at the Gatlinburg Convention Center at the beginning of December. You can browse booths selling handmade quilts, candles, baskets, pottery, jewelry, paintings, and so much more!

4. Gatlinburg SkyPark’s Lights Over Gatlinburg

Gatlinburg SkyPark’s Lights Over Gatlinburg is another one of the favorite events in Gatlinburg in winter. The entire mountaintop park is covered with all things Christmas, from thousands of twinkling lights to holiday photo ops to huge Christmas trees towering above downtown! During the day, you can take in fantastic views of Gatlinburg, and at night you can immerse yourself in the magic of the season. You’ll also love walking through a tunnel of lights that span the entire length of the SkyBridge!

5. Gatlinburg Fantasy of Lights Christmas Parade

Usher in the holiday season with the Gatlinburg Fantasy of Lights Christmas Parade! This award-winning parade takes place each year on the first Friday in December. The cheerful procession features an all-star lineup, festive floats, marching bands, and larger-than-life holiday balloons and decorations! The parade travels along the main Parkway in downtown Gatlinburg. It’s free and open to the public, though Grandstand VIP seating is available with the purchase of a ticket. This is one of the winter events in Gatlinburg that visitors come back to experience year after year!

6. Gatlinburg’s Festival of Trees

Gatlinburg’s Festival of Trees has been taking place for more than 50 years! This popular Gatlinburg event takes place during the week of Thanksgiving at the W.L. Mills Conference Center in the heart of downtown. You can stop by to marvel at a variety of festive Christmas trees decorated by local businesses. On select days, you can also meet and take photos with Santa Claus himself! This event is free to attend, though donations are appreciated to benefit the Boys & Girls Club of the Smoky Mountains.

Where to Stay in Gatlinburg This Winter

You’ll definitely want to experience these winter events in Gatlinburg this year! To make sure you won’t miss out on a thing, you should stay close to all the action. Our Gatlinburg condos are conveniently located within walking distance of all the best events and attractions in downtown, while still providing a cozy, peaceful place to escape from the crowds. We have both 2 and 3 bedroom condos that come with everything you need for a relaxing stay in the Smokies, including full kitchens, Jacuzzi tubs, and private balconies. Take a look at our selection of Gatlinburg condo rentals and start planning your winter getaway today!