Nestled in the heart of the picturesque Smoky Mountains, Gatlinburg and the surrounding towns of Pigeon Forge and Wears Valley, offer visitors a variety of annual events catering to a diverse range of interests. From exploring the art, culture and heritage of the region to vibrant holiday celebrations, these events offer the opportunity to immerse yourself in the charm and warm hospitality of eastern Tennessee. If you're planning a trip to Gatlinburg, we hope this event round-up is helpful in deciding when to visit and what to do while you're here. We look forward to hosting you in one of our cozy Gatlinburg chalets!
As the lush beauty of spring starts to unfold, the area welcomes the season with events to celebrate this special time of year.
Dollywood's Flower and Food Festival celebrates the arrival of spring with huge plant sculptures, live music, whimsical shows and delicious food.
Get a taste of the highlands at the Smoky Mountain Scottish Festival and Games. Held near Wears Valley every May, this festival celebrates the Scottish, Irish and Celtic culture, which has a strong heritage in eastern Tennessee. Events include highland athletic games, bagpipe and drumming competitions, and Scottish Highland dancing, as well as a great selection of food, beer and whisky from Scotland and Ireland.
The Bloomin' BBQ & Bluegrass Festival showcases some of the finest music and food in the southeast, with stages and vendors scattered throughout downtown Sevierville.
During the lovely Smoky Mountain summer, there are a number of events to explore the unique nature and culture of the region.
The Gatlinburg Craftsmen's Fair in July hosts over 180 booths with craftspeople selling a variety of art and exhibiting their skills. The fair is held at Gatlinburg Convention Center, with no admission fee for children under 17.
Gatlinburg kicks off Independence Day with a Midnight Parade on July 4th, followed by a River Raft Regatta in the early afternoon. Later in the day, Pigeon Forge puts on an incredible Independence Day celebration with the annual Patriot Festival. A night of live music, food and games is topped off with an impressive fireworks display.
Experience the wonder of nature with the Synchronous Fireflies in Smoky Mountain National Park, as these insects gather in the thousands and make the forest pulsate with synchronized flashes of light.
Harvest Festivals abound in the area from September through November, with each town offering their own spin on fall traditions.
The Smoky Mountain Harvest Fest kicks off in late September with fall themed displays and events in Gatlinburg and Sevierville. The Wears Valley Fall Fest in late October is a family-friendly event with a focus on arts and crafts including live demonstrations from local artisans, delicious food, kid’s activities and entertainment.
Admire the fall colors from among the treetops and enjoy the seasonal beer tastings at Anakeesta Bear-Varian Fall Festival.
In Pigeon Forge, Dollywood Harvest Festival offers a celebration of fall with a luminated pumpkin show to top it off.
Our corner of eastern Tennessee comes alive with holiday cheer in winter and there is no shortage of things to do.
Winterfest is a collection of festivals spread across the towns of Pigeon Forge, Seviersville, and Gatlinburg, where families and visitors will find a magical start to the holiday season with millions of twinkling lights, parades, and seasonal festivities. The festival kicks off in early December with Gatlinburg’s Fantasy of Lights Christmas Parade, which includes floats, Santa Claus and a tree lighting ceremony. Sevierville follows with their own parade and holiday events. Local attractions offer immersive holiday light experiences near Pigeon Forge at Skyland Ranch and Shadrack’s Christmas Wonderland.
The festivities at Dollywood Smoky Mountain Christmas are a beloved local tradition, including seasonal stage shows and over 6 million holiday lights to enjoy.
Join thousands of revelers at the New Year’s Eve celebration at the Gatlinburg Space Needle with live entertainment, a ball drop and fireworks show.
The towns of the Smoky Mountains region offer an abundance of events year-round to appeal to any interests. Whether you prefer a cozy cabin in the woods or a charming cottage with mountain views, your ideal Gatlinburg vacation rental is waiting for you at Mountain Laurel Chalets. Plan your getaway today and let the Smoky Mountains be the backdrop for your next unforgettable adventure!
