March 2026 Events in Pigeon Forge, Gatlinburg & the Smoky Mountains
March is one of the most “refreshing” times to visit the Smoky Mountains. As spring begins to bloom, Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, and Great Smoky Mountains National Park come alive with music festivals, scenic races, wine tastings, outdoor adventures, and family-friendly celebrations. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway, spring break trip, or spontaneous mountain escape, March offers the perfect blend of fresh mountain air and unforgettable experiences.
March in the Smokies brings music in the mountains, high-flying thrills, hometown races, fine wine, and classic cars. From downtown destinations to memorable and educational national park experiences, here’s what’s happening in Pigeon Forge, Gatlinburg, Sevierville, and Great Smoky Mountains National Park this March.
Remember, while you’re exploring the area’s springtime events, be sure to carve out time to meander through The Village Shops in downtown Gatlinburg — a European-inspired shopping destination filled with unique boutiques, sweet treats, local specialties, and cozy spots to relax between adventures. Bring your camera because you’ll want to take vacation photos at our iconic photo ops!
March 2–May 30 | SkyPark Music on the Mountain
Take in live music with awesome Smoky mountain views at Gatlinburg SkyPark during Music on the Mountain. From 5–8 p.m., enjoy an eclectic lineup of country, indie rock, blues, and bluegrass as the sun sets over the Smokies.
Featured performers include Nashville songwriters Taylor Teasley & Tori Hughes, Knoxville’s Shaun Abbott, bluegrass duo Richard Bennett & Fiddling Leona, Sevier County’s rising indie artist Gavin Harper, and country-blues musician Ethan Morgan. It’s an elevated concert experience—literally—where unforgettable views meet incredible local sound.
March 5–28 | Great Smoky Mountains National Park Activities
Spring is stirring inside Great Smoky Mountains National Park, making March a perfect time to explore. Beginning March 5, visitors can take part in ranger-led programs, guided hikes, and engaging educational experiences designed for individuals, couples, and families.
Discover themed programs like “Exploring Life in the Cove,” “Bear with Us!,” “Down on the Farm,” and “Wild About the Smokies at Oconaluftee.” Whether you’re learning about wildlife, local history, or Appalachian farm life, these immersive activities offer a deeper connection to the natural beauty that defines the Smokies. Be sure to check visitor centers for the latest schedule and weather updates.
If you choose not to participate in these scheduled activities, we recommend that you set aside a couple hours to simply explore Sugarlands Welcome Center. The small National Park museum, movie, gift shop and short waterfall hike are a must!
March 13–April 12 | Dollywood’s I Will Always Love You Music Festival
The light shines bright at Dollywood during the beloved I Will Always Love You Music Festival. This family-friendly celebration fills the park with show-stopping performances, colorful installations, and heartfelt tributes to songwriting.
Sing along to Dolly’s greatest hits, experience new productions like a reimagined Paradise Road, and snap photos beneath wonderful displays like Celebration Sky. Fan favorites—including the iconic LOVE sign—return, along with yummy festival bites available through the Tasting Pass. It’s a Joyful blend of music and flavor!
March 13–14 | SkyPark Highlining Event
Prepare for jaw-dropping views and heart-racing moments at Gatlinburg SkyPark as the Rucksack Circus Highline Crew takes to the skies. From 10 a.m.–3 p.m., elite highliners balance, bounce, and spin on a thin line suspended high above downtown Gatlinburg.
This gravity-defying spectacle transforms the SkyPark into an open-air stage, offering rare photo opportunities and once-in-a-lifetime thrills. Arrive early for the best vantage points! Performances are weather-dependent and may shift with wind conditions.
March 14 | 9 to 5 Road Race
Lace up your fastest sneakers for the inaugural 9 to 5K in Sevierville—the hometown of Dolly Parton. This flat, scenic road race winds through downtown streets and greenways, beginning and ending at the iconic bronze Dolly statue outside the Sevier County Courthouse.
Choose from the 9–5K, the Butterfly Mile Walk/Run, or even a Virtual 5K if you’re cheering from afar. Costumes are encouraged (yes, sequins welcome), and awards await the most spirited attire. Strollers and well-behaved, leashed dogs can join the fun, making this a sparkling community event for all.
March 14 | Gatlinburg Smoky Mountain Wine Fest
Sip, savor, and celebrate at the Gatlinburg Smoky Mountain Wine Fest, hosted at Arrowmont School of Arts and Crafts. This 21+ event pairs regional wines with food tastings from local restaurants, all set against the inspiring backdrop of working artists and craftsmen.
Watch live demonstrations from Arrowmont artisans and members of the Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community while enjoying entertainment throughout the indoor and outdoor venue spaces. Handcrafted pieces will be available for purchase—perfect for taking home a one-of-a-kind Smoky Mountain souvenir.
March 19–21 | Corvette Expo – Chevys in the Smokies Pigeon Forge Car Show
Car enthusiasts won’t want to miss the 49th annual Corvette Expo in Pigeon Forge. Held at the expansive LeConte Center at Pigeon Forge, this three-day event showcases over 100,000 sq. ft. of classic and custom Corvettes, Chevy show cars, vendors, and automotive treasures.
Plan your March 2026 Visit
Browse the swap meet, explore the sales corral, or register your own vehicle for judged competition or Park-N-Show. With indoor exhibits and expanded outdoor displays, it’s a high-octane celebration of American muscle set against the scenic Smoky Mountains. Don’t let your concern for Pigeon Forge traffic keep you away!
From mountaintop concerts and high-flying thrills to classic car shows and spring festivals, March in the Smokies offers something for every kind of traveler. It’s the season when the mountains wake up — and the towns buzz with energy.
As you plan your March getaway, make The Village Shops part of your experience. Nestled in the heart of downtown Gatlinburg, The Village is the perfect place to sip coffee, discover rare collectibles and one-of-a kind gifts, find spring fashion favorites, and slow down for a moment between events. Whether you’re here for music, miles, wine, or wandering, your Smoky Mountain vacation memories start — and end — with a stroll through The Village.