What to Do in Gatlinburg in December – Enchanting Events & Festive Fun in 2025
Things to do in Gatlinburg in December go way beyond snowflakes and souvenir shops. Think twinkling light displays, cozy cabins, and holiday events that feel straight out of a Hallmark movie. If you’ve been wondering what to do in Gatlinburg in December, the 2025 lineup of winter festivities is bigger, brighter, and more magical than ever.
From snow-covered peaks and hot cocoa at mountaintop resorts to dazzling parades and fireworks lighting up the night sky, December in the Smokies is a full-blown holiday experience. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned Gatlinburg fan, this month is packed with seasonal events, family fun, and frosty adventures you’ll want to start planning ASAP.
And yes, we’ve got all the juicy details—updated for 2025—with local insights and hidden gems that make the difference between touristy and truly unforgettable. So grab a peppermint mocha and keep reading, because winter magic awaits!
What Are The Top Things to Do in Gatlinburg in December?
If you’re wondering what the best things to do in Gatlinburg in December are, you’re in for a sleigh-full of magical moments and memory-making experiences. This snowy season kicks off with Enchanted Christmas at Anakeesta, where mountaintop villages shimmer with lights and cocoa-fueled cheer.
Then there’s the Fantasy of Lights Christmas Parade, a beloved seasonal event lighting up downtown with massive balloons and marching bands. On New Year’s Eve, thousands gather at the Space Needle for a dazzling Gatlinburg winter fireworks show that paints the Smoky Mountain sky.
Don’t forget to swing by the Great Smoky Christmas Arts & Crafts Show for artisan-made gifts that scream “I didn’t buy this last-minute.” Whether you’re planning to visit Gatlinburg for the holidays or just craving festive vibes, keep reading to unwrap even more unforgettable things to do in Gatlinburg during winter!
Get Into the Holiday Spirit at Enchanted Christmas at Anakeesta
The Enchanted Christmas at Anakeesta returns from November 15, 2025 through January 5, 2026, bringing the Smoky Mountains to life with festive sparkle and family-friendly fun. This mountaintop event at 576 Parkway features whimsical holiday villages like Arctic Alley, Santa’s Sleigh, and the glowing Whimsical Christmas Garden.
Guests can enjoy live performances by Anakeesta Carolers, interactive elf-led shows, and a Hot Cocoa Crawl Scavenger Hunt that ends with a collectible ornament. The event is hosted at Anakeesta Adventure Park in downtown Gatlinburg, where the holiday magic comes with sweeping mountain views.
Catch the Fantasy of Lights Christmas Parade
The Fantasy of Lights Christmas Parade takes over downtown Gatlinburg on Friday, December 5, 2025, from 7:30 PM to 9:00 PM, kicking off the city’s Winter Magic Celebration. Organized by the City of Gatlinburg, this iconic event celebrates its 50th year with massive balloons, marching bands, and more than a million LED lights.
The parade begins at Baskins Creek Bypass and travels down the Parkway to Traffic Light #10, with a tree lighting ceremony starting at 7:25 PM at Parkway Plaza. This long-standing tradition draws locals and visitors alike—be sure to arrive early for a good spot!
Celebrate NYE With Gatlinburg Space Needle Ball Drop & Fireworks Show
The Gatlinburg Space Needle Ball Drop & Fireworks Show is one of the largest NYE celebrations in the U.S., but 2025 event details have not yet been announced. Traditionally, the event features live music from 10 PM, street closures for foot traffic, and a midnight fireworks show launched from the 400-foot Space Needle.
The celebration is centered around the intersection of Parkway and Historic Nature Trail near traffic light #8. Stay tuned for 2025 updates and mark your calendar for a countdown like no other in the Smokies!
Find One-Of-A-Kind Gifts at the Great Smoky Christmas Arts & Crafts Show
The Great Smoky Christmas Arts & Crafts Show takes place from December 1–8, 2025 at the Gatlinburg Convention Center, located at 234 Historic Nature Trail. Hosted by the Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community, this juried show features handcrafted items like quilts, pottery, hand-dipped candles, and old-fashioned brooms.
The community represents the largest group of independent artisans in the U.S., many using techniques passed down for generations. It’s a can’t-miss for those seeking meaningful, local gifts wrapped in Appalachian heritage.
Make Merry Memories at Smoky Mountain Christmas at Dollywood
The Smoky Mountain Christmas at Dollywood returns from November 1, 2025 to January 4, 2026, transforming the theme park into a holiday spectacle with over 6 million lights and dozens of themed Christmas trees. This seasonal event at 2700 Dollywood Parks Blvd features festive zones like Glacier Ridge and Santa’s Village, plus nightly fireworks and real “snowfall” in Wildwood Grove.
Beloved shows like “Christmas in the Smokies” and “Appalachian Christmas” take center stage alongside savory seasonal dishes and holiday treats. New for 2025, Dollywood is offering immersive winter wonderland tours, complete with meet-and-greets and behind-the-scenes magic.
Experience The Magic of Pigeon Forge Winterfest at The Island
Though technically just down the road, the Pigeon Forge Winterfest at The Island is a must-add to your things to do in Gatlinburg during winter bucket list. Running from mid-November 2025 through February 2026, this free event brings millions of synchronized lights, towering trees, and holiday tunes to The Island’s vibrant plaza.
You’ll find giant ornaments, photo ops galore, and a Winterfest Show Fountain that dances to Christmas music every evening. It pairs beautifully with shopping, dining, and riding the Great Smoky Mountain Wheel.
Wondering What to Do in Gatlinburg in December?
When planning what to do in Gatlinburg in December, you’ll find a snow globe of adventure packed with lights, music, and cozy moments. This month offers some of the most festive winter activities in the Smokies, from riding the Ober Mountain Tram for snow tubing and ice skating, to catching live carolers at Smoky Mountain Tunes and Tales.
You can hike beneath snow covered peaks, stroll across a glowing SkyBridge at Lights Over Gatlinburg, or take a scenic cruise through town during the Winter Magic Lights Tour. Need a break from the bustle? Unwind in a cozy cabin, with options like Hilton Vacation Club Bent Creek Golf Village offering a peaceful winter retreat.
December’s lineup is the definition of winter magic, blending small-town charm with big holiday energy. Keep reading for even more can’t-miss things to do in Gatlinburg in the winter!
Go Winter Hiking at Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Few sights compare to snow covered peaks glowing under the soft winter sun at Great Smoky Mountains National Park. While hiking trails like Alum Cave and Laurel Falls are open year-round, December brings a serene hush and crisp air that transform these paths into storybook adventures.
The park’s quiet trails and frost-kissed trees create the perfect setting for peaceful winter exploration and unforgettable photo ops. Check conditions before heading out, bundle up, and prepare for solitude, beauty, and maybe even a few snowflakes on your eyelashes.
Ride the Ober Mountain Tram
The Ober Mountain Tram whisks you from downtown Gatlinburg to a mountaintop playground of winter activities, with snow tubing ice skating taking center stage in December. Running every 20 minutes, this 2.1-mile aerial tram offers jaw-dropping views of frosted treetops and the Smokies below.
Once you arrive at Ober Mountain Adventure Park, your day can include wildlife encounters, scenic chairlifts, and indoor skating under twinkling lights. Plan ahead—weekends and holidays mean long lines, but the snow-dusted views are worth every minute.
Stay at a Cozy Gatlinburg Cabin
There’s no better way to experience a Gatlinburg winter than curling up fireside in a cozy cabin tucked into the mountains. Book your stay through Tripster to find the best rates and availability (like the beautifully rustic Hilton Vacation Club Bent Creek Golf Village, just minutes from the action).
December brings fewer crowds and more magic—think frost on the windows, cocoa on the deck, and a glowing fire after a day in town. Whether you’re escaping solo or bringing the whole family, these stays elevate your mountain holiday dreams.
Enjoy Live Music and Storytelling at Smoky Mountain Tunes and Tales
The beloved Smoky Mountain Tunes and Tales transforms downtown Gatlinburg into a living Appalachian holiday card. While usually a summer staple, December brings a special version filled with carolers, costumed characters, and classic storytelling.
This family-friendly experience runs nightly from 6–10 p.m. and celebrates its 20th anniversary in 2025 with even more festive performances. Keep your eyes out for cloggers and fiddlers weaving through the crowd—this is tradition with a joyful, twinkly twist.
See The Lights Over Gatlinburg
The Lights Over Gatlinburg event at SkyPark turns the iconic SkyBridge into a glowing masterpiece stretching across the mountains. Running nightly through the holiday season, this local favorite features a 30-foot tree, dazzling displays, and thousands of Christmas lights illuminating the entire park.
Guests can explore the decorated SkyDeck during the day, then return at night to be fully immersed in a winter dreamscape. It’s one of the most dazzling visual experiences of the season—and included with your SkyPark admission!
Embark on a Gatlinburg Winter Magic Lights Tour
Gatlinburg Winter Magic Lights Tour dazzles visitors with millions of sparkling bulbs from November 6, 2025 through February 15, 2026. This self-guided light tour weaves through downtown streets adorned with life-size snowpeople, festive animals, and glowing seasonal scenes.
Don’t miss the Snowpeople Scavenger Hunt, available through the Visit Gatlinburg app—fun for kids and grown-up elves alike. Whether you’re walking or cruising, these twinkling streets are a love letter to the magic of December.
Drive Through Pigeon Forge’s Winterfest Driving Tour of Lights
The Winterfest Driving Tour of Lights in Pigeon Forge runs from November 6, 2025 to February 15, 2026, and it’s a luminous escape into holiday wonder. With over 12 million light displays, including the whimsical “12 Days of Christmas” and the Fairytale Fantasy zone, every corner of the Parkway becomes part of the celebration.
Bridges wrapped in lights, nursery rhymes glowing to life, and riverside reflections all add to the enchantment. Whether you drive it solo or book a guided version, it’s a must-do to round out your winter itinerary.
What Are The Top Things to Do in Gatlinburg in December FAQs?
Is Enchanted Christmas at Anakeesta worth it for someone like me who loves festive mountaintop vibes?
Enchanted Christmas at Anakeesta is perfect for anyone who wants immersive lights, holiday villages, and mountaintop views in one swoop. Expect interactive elf shows, hot cocoa scavenger hunts, and festive photo ops with Santa himself.
Will the Fantasy of Lights Christmas Parade be too crowded for me to enjoy with my kids?
The Fantasy of Lights Christmas Parade is one of the most beloved Things to Do in Gatlinburg in December, and yes, it draws a big crowd. But with giant balloons, live bands, and a million twinkling lights, it’s totally worth arriving early for a front-row curb seat.
Should I celebrate New Year’s Eve at the Gatlinburg Space Needle Ball Drop & Fireworks Show?
If you’re ringing in the new year in town, the Gatlinburg Space Needle Ball Drop & Fireworks Show is the go-to celebration. Expect LED-lit countdowns, rooftop fireworks, and thousands of partygoers filling downtown Gatlinburg with energy.
Can I find unique holiday gifts at the Great Smoky Christmas Arts & Crafts Show?
Yes! The Great Smoky Christmas Arts & Crafts Show features handmade Appalachian goods like quilts, carved brooms, pottery, and jewelry—ideal for meaningful, non-mass-produced gifts.
Is Smoky Mountain Christmas at Dollywood really different from other holiday events?
Smoky Mountain Christmas at Dollywood is like walking into a living snow globe. With over six million lights, themed zones, snowfall at night, and festive shows, it’s a full-sensory experience that goes way beyond just pretty décor.
Should I include Pigeon Forge Winterfest at The Island on my holiday itinerary?
Definitely! Pigeon Forge Winterfest at The Island brings synchronized light displays, giant ornaments, and nightly fountain shows all season long. It’s a short drive from Gatlinburg and makes for a glowing evening out without spending a dime on admission.
What should I add to my itinerary if I want the best ideas for what to do in Gatlinburg in December?
When it comes to What to Do in Gatlinburg in December, don’t miss snow tubing at Ober Mountain, watching carolers at Smoky Mountain Tunes and Tales, or exploring downtown’s Winter Magic Lights Tour. You’ll find the perfect blend of outdoor adventure, live entertainment, and cozy holiday vibes throughout the month.
What should I know about visiting Great Smoky Mountains National Park in December?
Hiking the Great Smoky Mountains National Park offers a peaceful winter escape. Snow-covered peaks, crisp air, and fewer crowds make this the best time for quiet, scenic hikes.
Is it worth taking the Ober Mountain Tram during winter?
The Ober Mountain Tram is a must during the colder months—especially if you’re into snow tubing and ice skating. The scenic 2.1-mile ride alone is worth it, but once you’re at the top, the winter fun really kicks in
Can staying at a Gatlinburg Cabin really upgrade my winter getaway?
Yes, booking a Gatlinburg Cabin through Tripster turns a normal vacation into a mountain retreat. Cabins like Hilton Vacation Club Bent Creek Golf Village offer cozy vibes, fireplaces, and snow-dusted views that scream winter wonderland.
What’s so special about Smoky Mountain Tunes and Tales during the holidays?
Smoky Mountain Tunes and Tales in December brings costumed carolers, storytellers, and cloggers to the streets of Gatlinburg. It’s not just entertainment—it’s a live, walkable experience that feels like stepping into a Smokies-themed Christmas card.
Is Lights Over Gatlinburg just another light show?
Not at all! Lights Over Gatlinburg takes place at SkyPark and includes a 30-foot tree, thousands of lights, and the record-setting SkyBridge decked out in holiday glow. You can visit during the day for mountain views and return at night for total illumination.
How does the Gatlinburg Winter Magic Lights Tour work for first-timers like me?
The Gatlinburg Winter Magic Lights Tour is a self-guided driving or walking tour that shows off life-size snowpeople and glowing light tunnels. Just download the Visit Gatlinburg app to track unique displays and participate in the Snowpeople Scavenger Hunt.
Can I do the Pigeon Forge’s Winterfest Driving Tour of Lights on my own?
Yes! Pigeon Forge’s Winterfest Driving Tour of Lights is a self-paced adventure that spans from early November through mid-February. You’ll see 12 million lights, fairytale characters, and the “12 Days of Christmas” display, all from the warmth of your car.
How can I save money on Winter Gatlinburg Hotel Packages without missing the fun?
With Winter Gatlinburg Hotel Packages on Tripster, you can bundle hotel stays with top attractions and save up to 37%. Options include Smoky Mountain Outdoors Rafting + Hotel at 37% off and Ripley’s Aquarium Vacation Package at 10%.
What are some Winter Gatlinburg Vacation Packages I can book to get more for less?
Winter Gatlinburg Vacation Packages let you bundle attractions like Anakeesta and Ober Mountain for up to 13% off. With Tripster, you can save on combo tickets and even score discounts on shows like Dolly Parton’s Stampede in Pigeon Forge.
Are There Any Winter Gatlinburg Hotel Packages Available?
Booking Winter Gatlinburg 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 Gatlinburg 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 comfy 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 winter escape is practically effortless!
What Winter Gatlinburg Vacation Packages Are Available?
Scoring Winter Gatlinburg 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 winter wanderers. With Tripster, planning your Gatlinburg getaway just got a whole lot cooler!
Smoky Mountain Wheel + Ober Gatlinburg Combo Tickets
Save up to 13% with 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 wintery adventures that make it a crowd-pleaser for all ages.
Dolly Parton Stampede Pigeon Forge + Anakeesta Combo Tickets
Save up to 6% with 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!
Why Travelers Love Booking with Tripster:
💥 Instant ticket confirmation
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So, What’s My Next Move?
With so many unforgettable things to do in Gatlinburg in December, now’s the time to turn those holiday daydreams into real plans. Whether you’re chasing what to do in Gatlinburg in December or just craving a wintry escape packed with charm, this mountain town has you covered.
Start by locking in your itinerary early—Tripster makes it easy to bundle vacation packages, book cozy cabins or hotels, and score deals on attractions and shows. Trust us, snagging those tickets now means less stress and more hot cocoa later.
Don’t forget to check seasonal hours and event times so you can fit in every twinkling moment. Your perfect Smoky Mountain winter getaway is only a few clicks away!
