Christmas is a magical time of year, and Gatlinburg, Tennessee, is one of the most enchanting places to celebrate the holiday season. Located in the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains, Gatlinburg transforms into a winter wonderland during Christmas, offering a wide range of activities, events, and attractions that are sure to make your holiday season merry and bright.
Gatlinburg's rich natural beauty, combined with its small-town charm and festive atmosphere, makes it an ideal destination for a Christmas getaway. Whether you're looking for outdoor adventures, holiday traditions, or simply a relaxing vacation, Gatlinburg has something for everyone.
In this article, we'll explore eight ways to celebrate Christmas in Gatlinburg, Tennessee, from festive events and activities to holiday traditions and outdoor adventures.
1. Gatlinburg Winterfest
Gatlinburg Winterfest is a four-month celebration that begins in November and runs through February. During this time, the city is transformed into a winter wonderland with over 5 million lights, festive decorations, and holiday events.
One of the highlights of Winterfest is the Fantasy of Lights Christmas Parade, which takes place in early December. The parade features festive floats, marching bands, and of course, Santa Claus.
2. Ober Gatlinburg Ski Resort and Amusement Park
Ober Gatlinburg Ski Resort and Amusement Park is a must-visit destination during the holiday season. The resort offers a range of winter activities, including skiing, snowboarding, and ice skating.
Take a ride on the Aerial Tramway, which offers breathtaking views of the Great Smoky Mountains, or visit the Ice Skating Rink, where you can enjoy a fun day of ice skating with family and friends.
3. Anakeesta Winterfest
Anakeesta is a popular outdoor attraction in Gatlinburg that offers a range of activities and events during the holiday season. During Winterfest, the park is transformed into a winter wonderland with festive decorations, holiday lights, and special events.
Take a ride on the Anakeesta Treetop Canopy Walk, which offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains, or visit the Winterfest Village, where you can enjoy holiday treats and drinks.
4. Gatlinburg Strip
The Gatlinburg Strip is a popular destination during the holiday season, offering a range of shops, restaurants, and attractions.
Take a stroll along the strip, which is decorated with festive lights and decorations, and visit some of the many shops and restaurants that line the street.
5. Holiday Craftsman's Fair
The Holiday Craftsman's Fair is a popular event that takes place in Gatlinburg during the holiday season. The fair features a range of local artisans and craftsmen, who sell handmade goods, including jewelry, pottery, and woodcarvings.
6. Christmas Magic at the Island at Pigeon Forge
The Island at Pigeon Forge is a popular destination that offers a range of activities and events during the holiday season.
Take a ride on the Great Smoky Mountain Wheel, which offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains, or visit the Island's Christmas tree, which is decorated with festive lights and decorations.
7. Smoky Mountain Winterfest Trolley Ride of Lights
The Smoky Mountain Winterfest Trolley Ride of Lights is a popular event that takes place during the holiday season. The ride features a narrated tour of the city's festive lights and decorations, which are displayed throughout the city.
8. Gatlinburg's Winterfest Driving Tour of Lights
Gatlinburg's Winterfest Driving Tour of Lights is a self-guided driving tour that takes you through the city's most festive areas. The tour features a range of holiday lights and decorations, which are displayed throughout the city.
Gatlinburg, Tennessee, is a magical place to celebrate the holiday season, with a range of activities, events, and attractions that are sure to make your Christmas merry and bright. Whether you're looking for outdoor adventures, holiday traditions, or simply a relaxing vacation, Gatlinburg has something for everyone.
We hope this article has given you a taste of the magic of Christmas in Gatlinburg, Tennessee. From festive events and activities to holiday traditions and outdoor adventures, there's something for everyone in this winter wonderland.
So why not start planning your Christmas getaway to Gatlinburg today? Book your accommodations, plan your itinerary, and get ready to experience the magic of Christmas in this beautiful Tennessee town.
What is Gatlinburg Winterfest?
+Gatlinburg Winterfest is a four-month celebration that begins in November and runs through February. During this time, the city is transformed into a winter wonderland with over 5 million lights, festive decorations, and holiday events.
What is Anakeesta Winterfest?
+Anakeesta Winterfest is a popular outdoor attraction in Gatlinburg that offers a range of activities and events during the holiday season. During Winterfest, the park is transformed into a winter wonderland with festive decorations, holiday lights, and special events.
What is the Smoky Mountain Winterfest Trolley Ride of Lights?
+The Smoky Mountain Winterfest Trolley Ride of Lights is a popular event that takes place during the holiday season. The ride features a narrated tour of the city's festive lights and decorations, which are displayed throughout the city.