Mark your calendars! Whether you're planning for this weekend, next week, or six months from now, Gatlinburg offers seasonal events perfect for friends, families, foodies, outdoor enthusiasts, musicians, and artists. From Spring to Winter, Gatlinburg hosts a variety of events that create lasting memories. Discover all the top activities and fun things to do in Gatlinburg throughout the year, and start planning your unforgettable getaway.
Gatlinburg Pancake Week
Join us for Gatlinburg Pancake Week during National Pancake Week, a delightful celebration in the heart of Tennessee. Dive into a week-long extravaganza of fluffy pancakes ranging from traditional buttermilk to inventive flavors like chocolate chip and blueberry. Gatlinburg invites pancake lovers to explore an array of delicious toppings and unique recipes, making this event a must-visit culinary festivity for locals and tourists alike. Experience the joy and community spirit of one of America’s favorite breakfast dishes in the picturesque setting of Gatlinburg.
Gatlinburg St. Patrick's Week
Celebrate Irish culture in the heart of the Smoky Mountains at Gatlinburg's Annual St. Patrick’s Day Celebration. This week-long festivity transforms the town with Shamrock green, Irish flags, and the sounds of Celtic music. Enjoy family-friendly activities, traditional Irish fare, special offers from local businesses, and more. Whether you're Irish by birth or Irish at heart, don't miss this vibrant celebration in Gatlinburg, Tennessee.
July 4th in Gatlinburg
Celebrate Independence Day like never before in Gatlinburg, Tennessee, where patriotism shines bright in the heart of the Smoky Mountains. Renowned for its grand 4th of July festivities, Gatlinburg kicks off the nation’s very first Independence Day Parade at midnight, followed by a week-long extravaganza of events. Enjoy the River Raft Regatta, a spectacular Fireworks and Drone Show, and more. Join the community in honoring America’s independence with unmatched pride and excitement.
GatlinBURGER Week
Experience GatlinBURGER Week in Gatlinburg, Tennessee—a seven-day celebration of unique, one-of-a-kind burger creations. Local restaurants showcase their culinary creativity with special burgers not available on regular menus, competing for the title of GatlinBURGER Meister. Join food lovers in sampling these inventive dishes, voting for your favorites, and enjoying the chance to win exciting prizes. Savor the flavors of Gatlinburg’s rich culinary scene during this mouth-watering event!
Veterans Day Celebration
Join Gatlinburg, Tennessee, for its Annual Veterans Day Celebration at Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies Plaza. This heartfelt ceremony honors the brave men and women who have served in the armed forces. The event is free and open to the public, offering a powerful tribute to the courage, selflessness, and enduring spirit of America’s military veterans and their families. Come together as a community to pay your respects and honor those who have given so much for our country.
Gatlinburg’s Winter Magic Chili Cookoff
Celebrate the start of Gatlinburg's Winter Magic season with the annual Chili Cookoff, presented by Bush’s Chili Beans. As autumn gives way to winter, downtown Gatlinburg transforms into a festive wonderland, drawing locals and visitors together for an evening of mouth-watering chili, live entertainment, and community spirit. This beloved tradition is the perfect kickoff to the winter season, offering warmth, culinary creativity, and fun in the heart of Tennessee.
Gatlinburg Christmas Parade
Experience the magic of the Annual Fantasy of Lights Christmas Parade in Gatlinburg, Tennessee. This beloved event, part of Gatlinburg's Winter Magic Celebration, transforms the charming mountain town into a winter wonderland each December. Enjoy festive floats, lively marching bands, holiday balloons, and an appearance by Santa Claus himself as over one million twinkling lights illuminate downtown. Join locals and visitors for an unforgettable evening of holiday cheer and enchantment.
New Years Eve Fireworks Show and Ball Drop
Ring in the New Year at Gatlinburg, Tennessee, with the "Best New Year’s Eve Show in the South!" Join the much-anticipated Annual New Year’s Eve Ball Drop and Fireworks Show, held under the iconic Gatlinburg Space Needle. This free, family-friendly event, which has been a tradition since 1987, is one of the nation's largest New Year’s Eve celebrations. Enjoy a spectacular night of festivities, including an exciting new drone show that will light up the sky in a dazzling display of color and creativity. Don't miss this unforgettable celebration in the heart of the Smoky Mountains!
Gatlinburg Winter Magic
Experience Gatlinburg Winter Magic, an annual event featuring millions of twinkling lights, festive decorations, and seasonal events. From early November through February, enjoy a winter wonderland in Gatlinburg with charming holiday displays and activities.