Holiday Magic in the Smoky Mountains

As November transitions into December, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park turns into a winter paradise. Although the Smokies are a year-round vacation spot, there is something especially magical about going around the holidays. There are many things to do during this particular time of the year, from picturesque landscapes covered in snow to joyful events that embody the spirit of the holidays.

The inaugural event on our list is the enchanting Smoky Mountain Christmas at Dollywood. This festive celebration boasts an impressive display of over five million glistening lights, a captivating holiday parade, and a heartwarming rendition of the classic tale, "A Christmas Carol." As if that weren't enough, you can also partake in exhilarating rides and treat yourself to seasonal delights like steaming hot cocoa and delectable gingerbread cookies. Mark your calendars because this magical extravaganza kicks off on November 4th and continues until January 6th.

Event two on our list is Anakeesta's Enchanted Winter Celebration. Anakeesta Mountain transforms into a magical wonderland with a mesmerizing display of holiday lights. Gather your loved ones and head to Anakeesta, where you can cozy up with a warm cup of cocoa or your favorite hot toddy by the fireside. Once you've warmed up, wander through the charming villages, indulge in delicious dining options, and immerse yourself in the enchanting light displays—all of this is included with your general admission to Anakeesta, conveniently situated in downtown Gatlinburg. This enchanting experience runs from November 14th to January 1st, 2023.

Who doesn't love a dazzling parade of lights? Mark your calendar for some fantastic holiday parades in the Smoky Mountains! On December 1st, immerse yourself in the magic of Gatlinburg's Fantasy Lights of Christmas Parade. Then, on December 2nd, get ready to be enchanted by the Sevierville Christmas Parade. And don't miss Townsend's Christmas Parade on December 4th. Each of these parades promises a memorable and festive experience for the whole family.

The Smoky Mountains are well-known for their diverse entertainment offerings, and when the holiday season rolls around, the theaters come alive with a delightful array of Christmas-themed shows. From the enchanting "Christmas at Dolly Parton’s Stampede" to the captivating "Christmas Show at Country Tonite" and the hilarious "Hatfield & McCoy’s Christmas Disaster Dinner Feud," these dinner shows are guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser for your entire group.

Celebrating New Year's in the Smoky Mountains is a thrilling way to welcome the year ahead. At The Island in Pigeon Forge, you'll witness the Great Smoky Mountain Wheel's dazzling light show, live music, and a stunning fireworks display as you count down to midnight. Alternatively, downtown Gatlinburg offers a vibrant atmosphere with street performers, live music, and the iconic Gatlinburg Ball Drop from the Space Needle. Both locations provide a fantastic backdrop for ringing in the New Year, ensuring a memorable and festive start to the year in the heart of the Smoky Mountains.

The holiday season in the Smoky Mountains offers an abundance of activities to keep your group entertained. Whether it's hitting the slopes for some thrilling skiing at Ober Gatlinburg or exploring the quaint shops and boutiques for unique gifts, there's no shortage of fun. And to make your stay even more memorable, why not choose a comfortable cabin or condo from Jackson Mountain Rental as your holiday home base? With all these options, your group is in for a festive and unforgettable experience in the Smokies!