Christmas in Smoky Mountains – Can’t-Miss Events and Dazzling Shows for 2025
Tinsel-draped cabins, gingerbread-scented air, and enough twinkle lights to guide Santa’s sleigh. Christmas in the Smoky Mountains is pure holiday joy. In 2025, the Smokies go full North Pole with heartwarming shows, magical events, and festive cheer around every corner.
A Christmas in Smoky Mountains trip means snow-dusted fun, cozy fireside moments, and memory-making magic for the whole family. From caroling in Gatlinburg to dazzling parades and live performances in Pigeon Forge that jingle all the way, the mountains are bursting with yuletide spirit.
Expect Santa Claus sightings, sleigh bells, and holiday traditions wrapped in Appalachian charm. Keep reading to discover the most magical 2025 Christmas events and shows the Smokies have to offer!
What Are The Top Events During Christmas in The Smoky Mountains?
Experience Christmas in the Smoky Mountains is by diving into its festive lineup of iconic events. Dollywood’s Smoky Mountain Christmas dazzles with over six million lights, holiday shows, and festive food across the park.
Bluegrass lovers flock to the Christmas in the Smokies Bluegrass Festival for three days of toe-tapping performances in Gatlinburg. At Anakeesta’s Enchanted Winter Celebration, mountaintop lights, cocoa crawls, and cheerful carolers turn the village into a real-life snow globe.
Pigeon Forge Winterfest and Winterfest at The Island stretch the season with massive light displays, synchronized fountain shows, and nightly entertainment. Keep reading to uncover even more magical events and hidden gems lighting up the Smokies this Christmas!
Dollywood’s Smoky Mountain Christmas
Experience Dollywood’s Smoky Mountain Christmas from November 1, 2025, to January 4, 2026, during the joyful Christmas season. The award winning theme park features dazzling performances, festive treats, and over six million twinkling lights across themed areas.
Stroll through Glacier Ridge’s glowing light tunnel or catch a heartwarming Christmas show at Showstreet Palace Theater. Stay at one of the hotels nearby or at DreamMore Resort for early entry, trolley service, and the coziest holiday perks in the winter wonderland.
Christmas in the Smokies Bluegrass Festival
The Christmas in the Smokies Bluegrass Festival returns to Gatlinburg Convention Center from November 20–22, 2025. Celebrate your Smoky Mountain Christmas vacation with live sets from Rhonda Vincent, Edgar Loudermilk Band, and more.
Lorraine Jordan hosts this multi-day event filled with traditional bluegrass, gospel, and festive mountain charm. Held right on the Parkway, it’s surrounded by Christmas lights, restaurants, and classic small-town sparkle.
Anakeesta’s Enchanted Winter Celebration
Anakeesta’s Enchanted Winter Celebration begins November 15, 2025, and runs through January 5, 2026, lighting up Gatlinburg’s skyline. This enchanted Christmas event at 576 Parkway, Gatlinburg transforms the mountaintop village with glowing tunnels, themed shows, and magical snowfall zones.
Enjoy the Hot Cocoa Crawl, festive eats like dulce de leche churros, and cozy firepit gatherings. Don’t miss Toyland Tales or breakfast with Santa—it’s holiday cheer at 1,600 feet.
Winterfest at The Island
Winterfest at The Island kicks off November 22, 2025, with a free concert and massive lighted Christmas tree ceremony. The Smoky Mountains Christmas event includes nightly fountain shows synced to music and 40-foot LED trees.
Visit The Island Courtyard at 6, 7, 8, and 9 PM for immersive holiday light shows. Expect giant garlands, glowing ornaments, and plenty of Instagram-worthy photo ops throughout the 23-acre property.
Pigeon Forge Winterfest
Pigeon Forge Winterfest runs November 6, 2025, through February 15, 2026, with millions of sparkling holiday lights. Covering Pigeon Forge TN, Gatlinburg, and Sevierville, this trail of cheer spans 25+ miles of light displays.
Enjoy drive-through light tours, seasonal shows, and the much-anticipated Christmas parade through downtown streets. It’s the ultimate way to experience a Smoky Mountain Christmas filled with twinkle, tradition, and family fun.
Ober Gatlinburg
While Ober shines year-round, Christmas in the Smoky adds extra magic with snow sports and alpine lights. Ride the 120-passenger Aerial Tram for mountaintop views and a cozy escape above the holiday crowds.
This season, find things to do in Gatlinburg during Christmas like ice skating, snow tubing, and caroling. Bundle up, sip cocoa, and enjoy the frosty charm of Ober’s mountain village in December.
Great Smoky Christmas Arts & Crafts Show
The Great Smoky Christmas Arts & Crafts Show takes over Gatlinburg Convention Center from December 1–7, 2025. Support Smoky Mountains artisans crafting handmade gifts like quilts, carved wood, candles, and woven baskets.
This show features local crafts passed down through generations—each one steeped in heritage and holiday heart. Admission is free, and every booth offers a one-of-a-kind keepsake or stocking stuffer.
Christmas at the Titanic Museum
Christmas at the Titanic Museum adds a nostalgic glow to this powerful, year-round holiday season exhibit. See the Grand Staircase decked in garland, hear Victorian carols, and feel the spirit of 1912’s last Christmas.
Costumed crew members share passenger stories under the soft shimmer of candlelit chandeliers and snow-dusted windows. Seasonal décor deepens the emotion and beauty of this historic tribute in Pigeon Forge.
Skyland Ranch Festival Of Lights
The Skyland Ranch Festival Of Lights will return for 2025 with over 500,000 twinkling Christmas lights. Kick off your Tennessee Christmas vacation with a scenic chairlift ride to glowing tunnels and themed displays.
Enjoy life-size Nativity scenes, cowboy-themed light sculptures, and a holiday dance party in the Courtyard. S’mores, gourmet hot cocoa, and gingerbread treats complete this cozy, festive mountaintop celebration at 1620 Parkway, Sevierville, TN.
What Are the Best Holiday Shows to See During Christmas in Smoky Mountains?
One of the biggest highlights of Christmas in Smoky Mountains is the lineup of over-the-top, laugh-out-loud, and heartwarming holiday shows. At Dolly Parton’s Stampede Pigeon Forge, guests are treated to a live Nativity, flying acrobats, and a full-scale equestrian performance wrapped in an incredible christmas theme.
The Hatfield and McCoy Dinner Show spices up the season with holiday-infused feuding, hilarious stunts, and splash-zone surprises. Over at Paula Deen’s Lumberjack Feud Supper Show, real lumberjacks compete in jaw-dropping challenges with a festive twist and Southern comfort food to match.
And the Country Tonite Theatre lights up the stage with classic carols, youth performers, and show-stopping costumes in a Christmas production voted among the best in town. Keep reading to unwrap all the details on these must-see shows and more holiday magic in the Smokies!
Dolly Parton’s Stampede Pigeon Forge
At the heart of the holidays, Dolly Parton’s Stampede Pigeon Forge transforms into an incredible Christmas spectacular like no other. The 2025 Christmas show is expected to return in early November at 3849 Parkway, featuring a live Nativity, Santa’s sleigh, and 32 beautifully costumed horses.
The Butterfly Dreams segment features aerialists soaring above snow-dusted horses, all set to Dolly’s original soundtrack. Add in festive lighting, seasonal music, and a hearty four-course feast, and you’ve got Christmas wrapped in Southern sparkle.
Hatfield and McCoy Dinner Show
For outrageous antics and jaw-dropping stunts, the Hatfield and McCoy Dinner Show delivers holiday chaos wrapped in comedy. Set at 119 Music Road in Pigeon Forge, the Christmas edition adds seasonal music, over-the-top decorations, and festive surprises to the ongoing family feud.
Live bluegrass and seasonal tunes fuel the yuletide energy as servers dish out down-home favorites. The mountain-sized cheer turns this dinner show into a full-blown Christmas showdown.
Paula Deen’s Lumberjack Feud Supper Show
The holidays get rowdy at Paula Deen’s Lumberjack Feud Supper Show, where real lumberjacks compete in axe throwing, log rolling, and speed climbing. Hosted at 2530 Parkway in Pigeon Forge, this covered outdoor arena goes full festive for Christmas with themed games, lights, and holiday music.
The Christmas edition adds themed games, holiday humor, and plenty of audience interaction that’s perfect for families. It’s a one-of-a-kind holiday hootenanny with Southern BBQ and big laughs bundled into every log-splitting moment.
Country Tonite Theatre
At Country Tonite Theatre, the Christmas show is a heartwarming blend of gospel, comedy, and classic holiday hits performed by top-notch local talent. Located at 129 Showplace Blvd, this production features elaborate costumes, youth performers, and a stunning winter backdrop.
Youth performers join seasoned pros on stage, making the show both heartwarming and show-stopping. With festive costumes, comedy skits, and a moving tribute to the season, it’s Christmas in the Smokies with a spotlight on star power.
What Are The Christmas in The Smoky Mountains FAQs?
Can I take my kids to Dollywood for something festive during the holidays?
Dollywood’s Smoky Mountain Christmas is one of the most beloved parts of Christmas in the Smoky Mountains and is packed with family-friendly magic. Guests can enjoy six million lights, seasonal shows like Heart of the Holidays, and Santa sightings tucked into every corner of the park.
Is there any live music during our visit to the Smokies in December?
The Christmas in the Smokies Bluegrass Festival is a cornerstone of Christmas in the Smoky Mountains, showcasing bluegrass legends and Appalachian holiday traditions. Held at the Gatlinburg Convention Center, it features acts like Lorraine Jordan & Carolina Road, Rhonda Vincent, and a stacked multi-day lineup.
Is Anakeesta decorated for the holidays if we visit in December?
Anakeesta’s Enchanted Winter Celebration is a glowing highlight of Christmas in the Smoky Mountains, turning the mountaintop village into a twinkling dreamscape. Guests walk through light tunnels, sip cocoa at fire pits, and meet Santa at 1,600 feet above Gatlinburg.
What’s going on at The Island this holiday season?
Winterfest at The Island brings nonstop sparkle to Christmas in the Smoky Mountains with its towering LED Christmas tree and fountain light shows. Visitors can catch choreographed music displays every hour and enjoy holiday rides, shops, and photos with festive backdrops.
Will we see holiday lights in Pigeon Forge?
Pigeon Forge Winterfest lights up the entire city for Christmas in the Smoky Mountains with more than 5 million twinkling holiday lights. The Winterfest Driving Tour of Lights, Christmas shows, and the seasonal Christmas parade are highlights along the Parkway.
Is Ober Gatlinburg open for Christmas activities?
Ober Gatlinburg brings winter thrills to Christmas in the Smoky Mountains with snow tubing, skiing, and holiday-themed ice skating. The aerial tramway ride itself becomes a snowy sleigh ride with breathtaking views of the frosted Smokies.
Are there any holiday craft fairs in the Smokies?
The Great Smoky Christmas Arts & Crafts Show is a local gem during Christmas in the Smoky Mountains, featuring handmade gifts by Sevier County artisans. From hand-stitched quilts to hand-poured candles, each item tells a story rooted in Appalachian tradition.
Is the Titanic Museum decorated for Christmas?
Yes, Christmas at the Titanic Museum adds a historic glow to Christmas in the Smoky Mountains with Edwardian-style decorations and candlelit exhibits. Guests walk through the Grand Staircase adorned with garlands, hear holiday music from 1912, and experience the ship like never before.
Is Skyland Ranch worth visiting at Christmas?
The Skyland Ranch Festival Of Lights is a must-see during Christmas in the Smoky Mountains, offering a chairlift ride to 500,000+ festive lights. From cowboy-themed holiday sculptures to a glowing Nativity, this Sevierville ranch is holiday cheer with a Tennessee twist.
What makes Christmas in Smoky Mountains different from other holiday destinations?
Christmas in Smoky Mountains is packed with Southern-style holiday flair, live shows, and cozy alpine scenery that brings the season to life. Attractions like Dolly Parton’s Stampede, Ober Gatlinburg, and festive dinner theaters make it a one-of-a-kind Christmas escape.
What’s so special about the Stampede Christmas show?
Dolly Parton’s Stampede Pigeon Forge turns into an incredible christmas spectacle during Christmas in Smoky Mountains, featuring a live Nativity, flying angels, and a holiday feast. The arena glows with themed lighting and Dolly’s original music, all while 32 horses and performers dazzle the crowd.
Is the Hatfield and McCoy show different during the holidays?
The Hatfield and McCoy Dinner Show brings a jingle-filled version of their classic feud to Christmas in Smoky Mountains, with snowball fights, holiday songs, and festive decor. Guests can expect belly laughs and down-home comfort food served with seasonal flair.
Do the lumberjacks have a Christmas version of their show?
Paula Deen’s Lumberjack Feud Supper Show in Christmas in Smoky Mountains amps up the competition with a holiday twist—think Santa hats, festive music, and themed challenges. It’s fast-paced, interactive, and perfect for families wanting something more action-packed than your typical Christmas concert.
Is Country Tonite still running during Christmas?
The Country Tonite Theatre stages a full-blown Christmas show as part of Christmas in Smoky Mountains, combining classic country hits with holiday favorites. Elaborate costumes, youth performers, and a patriotic finale make it one of the most spirited shows in Pigeon Forge.
Can I get a hotel package for our Christmas vacation in the Smokies?
Christmas Smoky Mountains Hotel Packages offer huge value by bundling lodging with top attractions like Dollywood or Ripley’s Aquarium. With Tripster, guests can enjoy extras like cozy rooms with hot tubs, fireplaces, and mountain views at reduced rates.
Is there a way to bundle attractions for a cheaper holiday trip?
Yes, Christmas Smoky Mountains Vacation Packages let guests mix and match attractions like Anakeesta, Ober Gatlinburg, and Dolly Parton’s Stampede for bundled discounts. Tripster makes it easy to customize your trip and save up to 37% on Christmas fun in the Smokies.
Are There Any Christmas Smoky Mountains Hotel Packages Available?
Booking Christmas Smoky Mountains hotel packages doesn’t have to feel like a budget-busting headache. Thanks to Tripster’s bundle-and-save magic, you can pair hotels with top Smoky Mountains attractions and unlock serious savings—up to 37% off.
The Smoky Mountain Outdoors Rafting + Hotel Package steals the show with a 37% discount, giving you adventure and a cozy place to crash. Want to keep it festive and family-friendly? The Ripley’s Aquarium Gatlinburg Vacation Package and Dollywood Hotels Package both offer 10% off—perfect for holiday fun without breaking the bank.
With Tripster, saving on your Christmas escape is practically effortless!
What Christmas Smoky Mountains Vacation Packages Are Available?
Scoring Christmas Smoky Mountains vacation packages is easier (and cheaper) than ever when you bundle two attraction tickets through Tripster. With savings of up to 13%, it’s a no-brainer for families, couples, or friend groups wanting to do more for less.
Think of it as the ultimate BOGO-but-better deal for holiday wanderers. With Tripster, planning your Smoky Mountains getaway just got a whole lot merrier!
Smoky Mountain Wheel + Ober Gatlinburg Combo Tickets
Save up to 13% on the Smoky Mountain Wheel + Ober Gatlinburg Combo Tickets and take in the best views from both ground and sky. Explore the mountaintop, enjoy snow tubing, and catch panoramic spins on the Great Smoky Mountain Wheel—all in one discounted bundle.
Paula Deen’s Lumberjack Feud Show + Ober Gatlinburg Combo
Save up to 13% on the Paula Deen’s Lumberjack Feud Show + Ober Gatlinburg Combo and experience high-flying feats before chilling on the slopes. This action-packed pairing delivers laughs, thrills, and wintry adventures that make it a crowd-pleaser for all ages.
Dolly Parton Stampede Pigeon Forge + Anakeesta Combo Tickets
Save up to 6% on the Dolly Parton Stampede Pigeon Forge + Anakeesta Combo Tickets and enjoy a dinner show like no other followed by mountaintop holiday magic. It’s the perfect mix of Southern charm and Smoky Mountain sparkle!
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So, What’s My Next Move?
If you’re dreaming of twinkling lights, epic shows, and cozy holiday vibes, Christmas in the Smoky Mountains delivers it all. Planning your visit around Christmas in Smoky Mountains means locking in some of the season’s most unforgettable moments.
To make the most of it, browse Tripster’s curated vacation packages, exclusive deals, and top-rated hotels with cozy fireplaces, mountain views, and relaxing amenities like a hot tub. Bundle attractions, book holiday shows, and score discounts—all in one easy spot. Don’t wait until the sleigh bells are ringing to plan your escape. The Smokies are calling, and it’s going to be magical!
