Holiday Lights & Christmas Festivities in Gatlinburg & Pigeon Forge
December is one of the most magical months to experience Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge. Both cities transform into a sparkling winter wonderlands filled with holiday lights and family-friendly festivities. Whether you’re enjoying a festive stroll through The Village Shops or exploring seasonal celebrations throughout Sevier County, both towns offer endless ways to enjoy the Christmas season.
Experience Christmas Charm & Holiday Lights at The Village Shops
Date: Now-January 30, 2026
Location: The Village Shops, Downtown Gatlinburg
Start your holiday adventure where Old-World charm meets Smoky Mountain Christmas magic. The Village Shops shine throughout December with European-inspired architecture, holiday lights, a festive courtyard, the famous fountain, and dozens of unique shops. It’s one of the most photographed Christmas spots in downtown Gatlinburg — and the perfect place for holiday shopping, dining, and capturing family memories.
Enchanted Christmas at Anakeesta
Date: Now-January 4, 2026
Location: Anakeesta Mountaintop Adventure Park
A mountaintop holiday celebration featuring thousands of lights, themed displays, cozy fire pits, and breathtaking nighttime views of downtown Gatlinburg. Anakeesta’s seasonal transformation is a must-see for visitors, and includes a Hot Cocoa Crawl, seasonal treats and live holiday entertainment.
Lights Over Gatlinburg
Date: Now-January 31, 2026
Location: Gatlinburg SkyPark
Enjoy a seasonal lights celebration with sweeping views of Gatlinburg as you walk across the iconic SkyBridge surrounded by sparkling lights and wintry décor. The entire park transforms into a winter extravaganza glittered in Christmas magic. Stroll through thousands of twinkling lights, cheerful family photo ops, and two towering Christmas trees, all crowned by a dazzling display of lights that stretches across the record-setting SkyBridge. Don’t forget to create souvenir family photos at the many festive holiday photo spots throughout the park!
Gatlinburg Winter Magic
Date: Now-February 8, 2026
Location: Throughout Gatlinburg
Millions of LED lights illuminate the city during Gatlinburg Winter Magic, creating an enchanting backdrop for holiday shopping, dining, and sightseeing. Stroll from the Parkway to The Village Shops and enjoy some of the most dazzling Christmas light displays in the Smoky Mountains.
Pigeon Forge Winterfest
Date: Now-February 15, 2026
Location: Throughout Pigeon Forge
See Pigeon Forge transformed into a winterfest spectacular now through mid-February. The town glows with over six million holiday lights, including the beautiful Wonders of Light Walking Trail and the scenic Winterfest Driving Tour of Lights. While you’re in town, be sure to catch a holiday dinner show and seasonal attractions across town. Perfect for families and friends seeking a magical Smoky Mountains holiday!
Plan Your December Visit to The Village Shops in Gatlinburg!
Whether you’re searching for holiday shopping in Gatlinburg, festive photo spots, or seasonal events near the downtown Parkway, The Village Shops are perfectly positioned in the heart of the action. Enjoy warm cafés, unique boutiques, holiday décor, and easy access to Gatlinburg’s biggest December celebrations.