The 7 Best Ways to Experience a Gatlinburg Christmas
Published Mar 14, 2022
Gatlinburg transforms into a winter wonderland during the holiday season, offering magical experiences for visitors looking to embrace the Christmas spirit. From dazzling light displays to cozy cabin retreats, there's no shortage of festive fun in this charming mountain town. Here are the seven best ways to experience a Gatlinburg Christmas, creating memories that will last a lifetime.
1. Cheer at a Parade
Thousands flock to the Fantasy of Lights Christmas Parade, so arrive early! The parade high-steps through downtown Gatlinburg the first Friday in December. Don’t miss the floats, balloons, costumed characters, bands and St. Nick himself!
2. Buy Appalachian Gifts
Artisans from Gatlinburg’s Arts and Crafts Community sell handmade wares at the Great Smoky Arts and Crafts Thanksgiving and Christmas Show. Traditional crafts include leather goods, paintings, jewelry, quilts, woodcrafts, glass, basketry, candles, and more.
3. Revel in Colorful Lights
View the town gleaming below you at Gatlinburg SkyPark. Spend an evening at the mountaintop theme park Anakeesta for its Enchanted Winter celebration, with lights illuminating the treetop walkways. Take a trolley tour of lights all over town during Winterfest.
4. Wander a Christmas Tree Forest
Dozens of themed trees fill the W.L. Mills Conference Center in November for the Festival of Trees. Saunter through this magical forest, bring the kids for Christmas crafts and listen to live holiday music.
5. Whisper Wishes to Santa
What do penguins ask Santa to bring? What’s on a shark’s Christmas list? Ask them yourself at Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies! Then head for the aquarium’s Santa’s Village and tell the jolly old elf your own secret wishes.
6. Taste Tennessee Moonshine
For grown-ups celebrating, hit Gatlinburg’s distilleries. Did you know moonshine comes in flavors galore, including seasonal treats like Eggnog Sippin’ Cream at Sugarlands Distilling Co. or Shine Nog from Ole Smoky Distillery? If you’re not into the ‘nog, try warming flavors like cinnamon or apple pie–it’s a dessert with a kick!
7. Celebrate in a Cozy Gatlinburg Cabin
Bring your gang to a Gatlinburg cabin. Gather by the fireplace, play games, bake treats or gaze at the winter constellations. Book your Christmas cabin today.
