New Year's Eve with Kids in Pigeon Forge

Celebrating New Year's Eve in Pigeon Forge is a fantastic way to ring in the new year with your family. Pigeon Forge offers a wide range of family-friendly activities and events that make the holiday extra special. Whether you’re looking for exciting attractions, festive events, or a cozy evening in your cabin, Pigeon Forge has something for everyone. Here’s a guide to making the most of New Year’s Eve with kids in Pigeon Forge.

1. Kick Off the Day at The Island in Pigeon Forge

The Island in Pigeon Forge is a must-visit destination for families, especially on New Year’s Eve. The complex features a variety of attractions, shops, and restaurants, providing plenty of entertainment for all ages. Start your day with a ride on The Great Smoky Mountain Wheel, which offers stunning views of the Smokies. Kids will love the excitement of the arcade, the mirror maze, and the carousel. Throughout the day, you can enjoy live music and festive decorations, making it a fun and vibrant place to celebrate the last day of the year.

2. Enjoy the Winterfest Lights

Pigeon Forge is famous for its Winterfest lights, which transform the town into a sparkling wonderland from November through February. On New Year’s Eve, take a drive or a stroll with your kids to admire the millions of twinkling lights that line the streets, parks, and bridges. The Pigeon Forge Parkway is a particularly magical spot, with its elaborate light displays and festive atmosphere. Be sure to stop by Patriot Park, where you’ll find a beautiful display of patriotic-themed lights that celebrate the spirit of the season.

3. Catch a Family-Friendly Show

Pigeon Forge is home to several theaters that offer family-friendly shows, perfect for adding some extra entertainment to your New Year’s Eve celebration. Popular options include:

• Hatfield & McCoy Dinner Feud: Enjoy a hilarious show filled with music, comedy, and dancing, all while feasting on a hearty Southern meal. The interactive nature of the show makes it a hit with kids of all ages.
• Pirates Voyage Dinner & Show: Set sail on a swashbuckling adventure that features acrobatics, live animals, and special effects. The pirate-themed show is thrilling for kids and offers a memorable dining experience.
• The Comedy Barn Theater: If you’re in the mood for some laughs, this family-friendly comedy show is a great choice. With a mix of stand-up comedy, live music, and audience participation, it’s a fun way to spend the evening.

Many shows in Pigeon Forge offer special performances on New Year’s Eve, so be sure to check for any added festivities or countdowns to midnight.

4. Celebrate at the Titanic Museum Attraction

For a unique New Year’s Eve experience, consider visiting the Titanic Museum Attraction in Pigeon Forge. The museum hosts an annual New Year’s Eve celebration that includes a family-friendly event with a New Year’s Eve toast, party favors, and a commemorative photo. Kids can explore the interactive exhibits and learn about the history of the Titanic, making it both an educational and entertaining way to celebrate the holiday.

5. Ring in the New Year at Dollywood

Dollywood is a beloved attraction in Pigeon Forge, and it’s an especially magical place to visit during the holidays. While the park closes before midnight, you can still spend the day enjoying the Christmas lights, holiday shows, and winter-themed rides. The park’s Smoky Mountain Christmas event features millions of lights, live performances, and seasonal treats. After a day of fun at Dollywood, head back to your cabin to ring in the new year in a cozy, relaxed setting.

6. Host a New Year’s Eve Cabin Party

If you prefer a quieter celebration, consider hosting a New Year’s Eve party in your Pigeon Forge cabin. Many cabins are equipped with amenities like game rooms, hot tubs, and spacious living areas, making them perfect for a family-friendly celebration. Here are some ideas for your cabin party:

• Game Night: Break out the board games, card games, or video games and have a family game night. You can even organize a mini-tournament with prizes for the winners.
• DIY Countdown: Create your own countdown to midnight with fun activities leading up to the big moment. You can make noisemakers, set up a craft station for the kids, or watch a family movie together.
• Fire Pit Fun: If your cabin has a fire pit, gather around for a cozy evening of roasting marshmallows and sharing stories. As midnight approaches, you can toast with sparkling cider and make resolutions for the new year.

7. Watch the Fireworks

Many places in Pigeon Forge and nearby Gatlinburg offer spectacular fireworks displays on New Year’s Eve. If your cabin has a view, you might be able to see the fireworks from the comfort of your porch or deck. Alternatively, you can head to The Island in Pigeon Forge, where they often host a grand fireworks show to welcome the new year. Watching the fireworks is a magical way to cap off the evening and create lasting memories with your kids.

8. Toast to the New Year with a Kid-Friendly Drink

As the clock strikes midnight, make a toast with your kids to celebrate the start of the new year. You can create a special kid-friendly drink, such as sparkling cider, fruit punch, or a fun mocktail with fruit juice and soda. Pour the drinks into festive glasses, and let the kids join in the countdown to midnight. It’s a simple but meaningful way to include them in the New Year’s Eve traditions.

Celebrating New Year’s Eve with kids in Pigeon Forge is a delightful experience filled with fun, family-friendly activities, and magical moments. Whether you choose to explore the town’s attractions, enjoy a festive show, or host a cozy cabin party, there are countless ways to make the holiday special for your family. Pigeon Forge offers the perfect blend of excitement and relaxation, ensuring that your New Year’s Eve is filled with joy, laughter, and memories that will last a lifetime. So, gather your loved ones, plan your celebration, and get ready to welcome the new year in one of the most enchanting destinations in the Smoky Mountains.