6 Smoky Mountains Christmas Events in 2024
As the most wonderful time of the year approaches here in the Smoky Mountains, you may be wondering what exactly will be going on this year to celebrate the holiday season! While you probably know that there are lots of Smoky Mountains Christmas events that take place each year, the details of these events can often change from year to year. That is why we have put together this helpful guide to the best Smoky Mountains Christmas events in 2024, along with specific times, dates, and other useful information:
1. Dollywood’s Smoky Mountain Christmas
The first of the Smoky Mountains Christmas events we are covering is Dollywood’s Smoky Mountain Christmas. This event kicks off on November 1, 2024 and continues through January 5, 2025, giving families plenty of time to enjoy the holiday magic. With millions of holiday lights throughout the park, festive treats, themed shows, and seasonal shopping, there is so much to love at Dollywood’s Smoky Mountain Christmas. Plus, this year, for the very first time, Big Bear Mountain will be on display with a full complement of holiday lights! Don’t miss all of the fun at Dollywood this holiday season with Dollywood’s Smoky Mountain Christmas.
2. Enchanted Christmas at Anakeesta
The next of the Smoky Mountains Christmas events that you should know about is Enchanted Christmas at Anakeesta! Running from November 15, 2024 until January 5, 2025, there is so much to do at this special event, including entertainment, dining, and more. For instance, you can participate in the Hot Cocoa Crawl, where you will sample a variety of hot cocoa flavors as you explore Anakeesta. Plus, you will get a complimentary souvenir mug for completing the challenge! With other fun things to do such as breakfast with Santa, holiday shows, and more, there is something for everyone at Enchanted Christmas at Anakeesta.
3. Winterfest Driving Tour of Lights
Another Smoky Mountains Christmas tradition that will be continuing strong this year is the Winterfest Driving Tour of Lights! During this event, more than 10 million holiday lights are put up between Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg, with memorable displays all throughout the tour. From light-covered bridges, to musical elements, and more, you won’t want to miss out on the chance to experience the Winterfest Driving Tour of Lights, which will take place from November 7, 2024 until February 16, 2025, giving you plenty of time to check it out for yourself!
4. Lights Over Gatlinburg
Come witness a holiday lights display you won’t soon forget when you check out Lights Over Gatlinburg, taking place at the Gatlinburg SkyPark from November 7, 2024 until December 31, 2024. The entire park will be covered with thousands of Christmas lights, including across the Gatlinburg SkyBridge itself! Plus, you will be able to meet Santa Claus himself on December 13th, 14th, 20th, and 21st of 2024 from 6:00-8:00pm.
5. Gatlinburg Fantasy of Lights Christmas Parade
A beloved area tradition will continue this year, as the Gatlinburg Fantasy of Lights Christmas Parade returns for yet another season! Come on down to the Parkway in Gatlinburg from 7:30pm-9:00pm on December 6, 2024 to enjoy a procession of creative Christmas displays, holiday cheer, festive music, and plenty more to love. And, since it is located right along the Gatlinburg Strip, it is a convenient way to end a fun day experiencing all that the town has to offer.
6. Christmas Dinner Shows
In addition to all of these amazing Smoky Mountains Christmas events, you can also get into the holiday spirit by checking out some of the Christmas-themed versions of the area’s popular dinner shows! Dinner shows including Country Tonite, Hatfield & McCoy Dinner Feud, Dolly Parton’s Stampede, The Comedy Barn, and more will be getting into the holiday spirit by putting on special versions of their shows that include lots of festive costumes, decorations, and more. So, if you are planning to visit the Smoky Mountains for Christmas this year, make sure to check with your favorite dinner show to see if they are putting on a holiday special!
Now that you know everything you need to know about the various Smoky Mountains Christmas events that are taking place in 2024, you are one step closer to enjoying a magical holiday season right here in the Smokies. If you are ready to make this a reality, go ahead and check out our selection of featured lodging in the Smoky Mountains to find the perfect place to stay, then start counting the days until you are celebrating the holidays here in the Smokies!
