Is Lights Over Gatlinburg the Best Holiday Experience in the Smokies?
What’s better than a view of downtown Gatlinburg and the Smoky Mountains during the day? That same view lit up at night with thousands of Christmas lights! Smoky Mountain Winterfest transforms the area into a winter wonderland and provides many different ways to explore and be entertained. Lights Over Gatlinburg is one of the most highly anticipated winter events in Gatlinburg, and this year, the SkyBridge’s Tunnel of Light has gotten quite a big upgrade! Keep reading to learn more!
Why You Should Visit Gatlinburg SkyPark
Gatlinburg SkyPark contains a variety of unique experiences on top of Crockett Mountain, surrounded by incredible views of the Great Smoky Mountains. You’ll begin your journey with the SkyLift ride to the summit, and from there, you can choose whether to cross the SkyBridge, the longest pedestrian cable bridge in North America, hike along the SkyTrail, climb the Tulip Tower, and more. After exploring for a while, take a break by heading over to the SkyCenter, where you can enjoy a snack or delicious meal at the SkyCafe, browse the small gift shop, and get souvenir photos. To fully relax and soak in the view, take a seat out on the SkyDeck while you sip a beer. The outdoor firepit, comfortable seating, and panoramic views make this one of the best Smoky Mountain experiences of your entire trip! In November and December, you can also enjoy live music by Richard Bennett and Shawn Lane on Monday and Friday nights between 6 PM and 9 PM!
During the day, Crockett Mountain contains hours of fun and entertainment, but it doesn’t end at sunset! They are open until 9 PM every night, and until January 31, 2023, you can take advantage of visiting twice in one day to experience the nightly Lights Over Gatlinburg event. What makes it even better is that there’s no ticket add-on or extra cost — it’s all included in your single admission ticket!
What to Expect at Lights Over Gatlinburg
Why should you experience Lights Over Gatlinburg during Winterfest in the Smoky Mountains? Well, first of all, the SkyBridge has gotten a significant upgrade this year! The Tunnel of Light that initially only covered a small portion of the SkyBridge now spans the entire length — nearly 700 feet! This new version of holiday lights in Gatlinburg is a must-see for everyone. The
massive 38-foot Christmas tree and thousands of dazzling light displays are perfect settings for family photos and making memories that will last a lifetime!
When You Can See Santa
Santa Claus has made some time in his busy schedule to be at Gatlinburg SkyPark on two separate dates during Winterfest! Say hello, take photos, and tell him your Christmas wishes on Tuesday, November 28, 2023, from 10 AM until noon or Saturday, December 9, 2023, from 6:30 PM to 8:30 PM.
Other Things to Know
Before heading out to experience Lights Over Gatlinburg, here are some additional things you should know about the attraction:
- The yellow SkyLift chairs are currently the only way to access the SkyPark.
- There are no height, weight, or age restrictions at Gatlinburg SkyPark.
- Children 3 years old and younger are free.
- Strollers are not permitted, so a child-wearing device is strongly encouraged.
- Dogs are welcome but must be leashed at all times.
- Discounts available at the ticket window include military/veteran, first responder (police, firefighter, EMT, nurse), senior rates, local rates, and group rates.
Lights Over Gatlinburg promises a night full of winter wonder, making the entire Gatlinburg SkyPark experience an incredible value for families. You won’t regret experiencing the holiday season at this popular attraction. Get ideas of additional ways to experience Smoky Mountain Christmas lights, and don’t miss out on all of the holiday festivities going on in the Smokies!
