6 Reasons to Visit Gatlinburg for the July 4th Holiday

Bring the whole family to Gatlinburg for an unforgettable Fourth of July. Gatlinburg goes big for this holiday, with delights for all ages, from a spectacular parade to breathtaking fireworks. Book your vacation cabin rental and head for the town where we do the Fourth justice. 

Travel and Leisure magazine named Gatlinburg one of the 15 best places in America to celebrate the Fourth of July in 2024. Here’s why our festivities are famous. 

1. The Nation’s First Fourth of July Parade

Gatlinburg is always the first city in America to welcome the Fourth. The city’s parade steps off at midnight, with marching bands, floats, giant balloons and much more. The parade begins at Baskins Creek Bypass and struts down the Parkway. Claim your viewing spot early, so you don’t miss a moment! 

2. The River Raft Regatta

Head for the banks of the Little Pigeon River for an afternoon of laughs. Starting at 1 p.m., competitors float their creative, unmanned rafts toward the finish line at Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies. Rent a rubber duck for $2 and root for your daring yellow darling to win the duck race!

3. Dazzling Fireworks and Drone Show

Downtown buzzes with anticipation as night falls. At 10:50 p.m., a fleet of drones soars overhead, forming patriotic images against the sky. At 11 p.m., fireworks burst from the top of the iconic Gatlinburg Space Needle. The 20-minute display will astound you!

4. Fireworks Viewing Parties 

Ole Red starts partying at 7 p.m., featuring live music and a rooftop spot for the fireworks show. At Gatlinburg SkyPark, you’re on a mountain perch at the same height as the top of the Space Needle. Both parties require advance tickets, so book now.

5. Smoky Mountain Tunes and Tales

Every evening in July, a stroll down the street becomes a storytelling adventure! Encounter costumed musical performers, dancers and storytellers bringing the past to vivid life all over town. Performances take place between 6 p.m. and 10 p.m. daily.

6. A Delightful Getaway in a Private Cabin

Share the holiday with family and friends in a Gatlinburg cabin rental. A cabin with an outdoor fire pit is perfect for roasting hot dogs and making s’mores. A cabin with a private pool is your retreat from the July heat! Reserve your cabin now and join us for the best Fourth anywhere.