Gatlinburg offers something for everyone–from craft lovers to nature lovers to kids who just want to see Santa! Plan a getaway around your family’s favorite event here, then book a cozy Gatlinburg cabin.
1. Winter Magic Lights
Millions of lights form holiday displays to charm all ages. The lights shine from November all the way into the new year–and they’re free. Don’t miss other seasonal events including the Christmas Arts and Crafts Show and the Festival of Trees.
2. Fantasy of Lights Parade
The first week in December, get into the holiday spirit with this old-fashioned parade. Holiday characters, themed floats, bands, and dancers lead the way, and jolly St. Nick always drops by.
3. New Year’s Eve Celebration
Ring in the New Year with a free concert, drone show, ball drop, and breathtaking fireworks finale. Want to watch the fireworks from a mountaintop? Grab a ticket to Gatlinburg SkyPark’s viewing party.
4. St. Patrick’s Week
Gatlinburg goes green every March, celebrating Irish music, food, and culture all week long. Restaurants and merchants offer special menus and Irish goods.
5. Wildflower Pilgrimage
Explore plants and animals in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, with guided walks, exhibits, talks, photography lessons and more. If you love the outdoors, this April event is an ideal reason to come to Gatlinburg.
6. Craftsmen’s Fair
Two hundred artisans gather here in July. Watch demonstrations, shop, and try your hand at crafting. Kids’ activities include hands-on craft projects. Can’t make a summer visit? Never fear–there’s an October Craftsmen’s Fair too.
7. Fourth of July Celebration
- Midnight parade: Gatlinburg proudly holds “the first July 4th parade in the nation” starting at midnight. Watch patriotic floats, bands, honor guards, performers, and giant balloons. This is worth staying up late to see!
- River Raft Regatta: In this popular contest, decorated, unmanned rafts race for glory. Join the tradition of buying a rubber duck to enter in the race!
- Fireworks: Bid the Fourth farewell with a drone show and spectacular fireworks.
8. Gatlinburg Harvest Festival
Welcome to the pumpkin-spiciest town in the Smokies! Gatlinburg businesses sport colorful autumn decorations to earn your vote as the best in town. This colorful festival runs from late September through October, giving you plenty of weeks to make your trip here.
No matter what events draw you to the Smokies, you can be sure you’ll find the perfect Gatlinburg cabin for your clan. Reserve a cabin today!
