4 Unique Ways to See the Smoky Mountain Christmas Lights
If there’s one thing the Smoky Mountain area does well, it’s celebrating the holiday season! With thousands of twinkling light displays scattered throughout Sevierville, Pigeon Forge, and Gatlinburg, there is no doubt that everyone who visits the Smokies this time of year will return home filled with holiday cheer. If you think spending Christmas in the Smokies sounds like a great idea, then keep reading to discover a few of the best ways to see Smoky Mountain Christmas lights!
1. Winterfest Walking Tour or Scenic Drive
One of the easiest and most relaxing ways to experience Smoky Mountain Christmas lights is to take a peaceful drive along the Parkway. The miles stretching from Pigeon Forge to Gatlinburg are lit up with illuminating displays, and you can explore and admire them from the comfort of your car. Turn on your favorite Christmas tunes for the full effect, and you and your family will definitely find yourselves in the holiday spirit.
If you don’t feel like driving, you can get in a little exercise by walking through the Wonders Of Light Walking Trail on Teaster Lane in Pigeon Forge. The beautiful Riverwalk Trail is transformed into a magical Christmas wonderland with towering displays that will mesmerize, amaze, and inspire! Another great place to walk around and experience Smoky Mountain Christmas lights is Patriot Park. During the Winterfest kickoff event, you can find food trucks and holiday vendors in addition to the beautiful, festive lights! What’s even better about these options? They’re completely free ways to enjoy the Smoky Mountain Christmas lights!
2. Redneck Comedy Bus Christmas Lights Tour
Another Winterfest tour option is the Redneck Comedy Bus Christmas Lights Tour. This unique experience combines family-friendly comedy and Christmas cheer, so arrive in your most tacky holiday sweater and get ready for a rowdy, fun time! Featured stops include Patriot Park and The Island, so you’ll be able to experience all of the best Smoky Mountain Christmas lights in a fun, laid-back atmosphere.
3. Dollywood’s Smoky Mountain Christmas
Smoky Mountain Christmas at Dollywood is an annual event that brings thousands to the area for the holidays. Your favorite rides are decked out in shimmering lights, and you’ll have the opportunity to try incredible holiday feasts and treats and shop at the many unique stores throughout the theme park. From heart-warming shows to a brand-new nightly festive drone show and the festivities found at Santa’s Village and Glacier Ridge, there are plenty of exciting things to discover for the whole family.
4. Shadrack’s Christmas Wonderland
Shadrack’s Christmas Wonderland in Sevierville is another highlight of the holiday season that you won’t want to miss! With thousands of beautiful lights, all synced to festive holiday music, you’ll be in awe of the stunning displays within seconds of arriving and immediately understand why Shadrack’s is consistently voted the best light show in Tennessee!
What’s even better is once you have toured through all of the beautiful lights, you and your family can spend some time inside Smoky Mountain Village, where you can find exciting kid’s activities, refreshments, souvenirs, and even have your picture taken with Father Christmas himself.
Experiencing Smoky Mountain Christmas lights is sure to make your family vacation unforgettable! From walking and driving tours to special Winterfest celebrations in both Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg, there are so many fun things to do during this special time of year. Take a look at even more ways to celebrate Christmas in the Smokies.