SMOKY MOUNTAIN WINTERFEST
November 7, 2025 – February 16, 2026
Sevierville and her sister cities of Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg are all decked out in lights during the annual Smoky Mountain Winterfest Celebration.
Viewing Smoky Mountain Winterfest lights with friends and family is a great way to get in the holiday spirit – and with more than 15 million lights in a 25-mile stretch, there’s certainly plenty to see!
Winterfest lights are a huge draw, but once visitors arrive in Sevierville, they also find incredible shopping, attractions, and area holiday shows.
Special Winterfest attractions, like Shadrack’s Christmas Wonderland (November 14, 2025 – January 4, 2026), add to the excitement. This drive through LED light and music experience is considered one of the most immersive drive-through Christmas experiences on Earth. To add to the excitement, continue to Snowy Mountain Village inside Soaky Mountain for family activities, treats, and more November 15-17, 22-30, and December 1-30.
Christmas events highlight the joys of the season. Downtown Sevierville offers plenty of holiday merriment the first weekend of December. On Thursday, December 4, enjoy an old-fashioned tree lighting at the Sevier County Courthouse complete with children’s crafts, photos with Santa, delicious holiday snacks and music during Christmas at the Courthouse from 5:30pm until 8:30pm EST.
Then on Saturday, December 6, begin the day with Sevierville’s 63rd Annual Christmas Parade at 11am EST. This traditional hometown parade is a great way to add a little more joy to the holidays.
Dollywood also offers plenty of holiday fun during Smoky Mountain Christmas (November 1, 2025 – January 4, 2026). See millions of lights, holiday shows, and more at the award-winning theme park only minutes from downtown Sevierville.
Wilderness at the Smokies Waterpark Resort offers year-round waterpark fun inside the Wild WaterDome. But winter visitors to this tropical oasis can also enjoy some cool activities – including taking a spin at the seasonal outdoor ice-skating rink (November 7 - January 11).
Make plans to visit Festival of Lights at The Ranch Sponsored by Food City (November 7 - January 2) at SkyLand Ranch. This annual festival will happen nightly from 6-9pm and feature over 100 displays, a magical light arch walkway, Christmas themed characters, activities, projection mapping show, holiday baked goods, and spectacular evening views from hundreds of feet above the Parkway.
Shopping in Sevierville is the perfect way to check off your list – twice. With nearly 150 name brand outlet stores where shoppers can find everything from fine China and clothing to tools and furniture, Sevierville is a retail haven. Specialty retail shops featuring items like fine art, antiques and collectibles, and outdoor items. Make plans to kick-off the holiday shopping season at Tanger Sevierville with their annual tree lighting celebration on November 7.
*Call ahead to confirm festival and event dates and times before driving long distances.
Start planning your Winterfest vacation now by booking the perfect place to stay in Sevierville and enjoy all the Smoky Mountains have to offer.
