October in the Smoky Mountains is the prime season for stunning fall foliage, and no wonder that it’s also the top choice for couples tying the knot. As the holidays draw near, festive celebrations pop up throughout the region. By month’s end, the spooky season will make its presence known, but for now, the focus is all on the vibrant colors covering the trees.
Here’s the rundown of events happening in the Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge area this October.
Fall Colors in the Smoky Mountains
October Events in the Smokies
For those who love a good scare, Ripley’s Haunted Adventure starts its annual Fright Nights on October 1, marking 26 years of thrills. The spooky fun runs until Halloween.
There’s no better way to take in the mountain views than from the top, and Gatlinburg SkyPark makes it a fun experience throughout October with Autumn at the Park offering some of the best mountaintop views of the changing colors all month. Each Friday morning all month, visitors can also enjoy a stunning Smoky Mountain Sunrise (book ahead). And starting October 11 through the month, the weekends for the kids feature face painting and live balloon art. The SkyPark also offers great food and live music.
In Gatlinburg, the Fall Craftsmen’s Fair opens at the Convention Center on October 3 and runs through October 20. With over 200 artisans displaying their work, it’s one of the year’s best events to shop or just browse for unique crafts while enjoying live music and good food.
Car enthusiasts will want to head to Sevierville on October 5-6 for Circle Yer Wagens, a massive VW meet-up with competitions and a swap meet, on the north side of town. On that same weekend, October 5-6, another auto event happens at the Sevierville Convention Center – it’s Slammedenuff, a Gatlinburg original that now tours across the nation, featuring “slammed” (lowered) classic autos for plenty of fun.
For a quieter event, on October 6, The Island hosts Chalkfest, a live art event where artists create mesmerizing chalk drawings that may be gone as quickly as they appear.
And for a laid-back autumn experience, Sevierville offers the Farm to Fork event on Tuesday, October 8. Hosted on the courthouse lawn, this one-night event features gourmet food, wine, live music, art, and an auction. There’s even an optional whiskey and cigar nightcap for those who want to indulge further.
Here come the motors again, this time at Smokies Stadium in Kodak, just up the road from Sevierville. It’s the Smoky Mountain F-Body Fest on October 10-12. Three days to admire GM’s classic F-body muscle cars like the Camaro, Firebird and Trans-Am.
October 17 brings us Sevierville’s History & Haunts, a free, family-friendly street party featuring walking tours, storytellers, games, and fireworks.
For a celebration that’s more off the beaten path, check out the Wears Valley Fall Fest from October 18-20. This event is packed with artisans, kids’ activities, food, and live music, all set in the gloriously scenic heart of the fall foliage, between Pigeon Forge and Townsend.
Jeep lovers won’t want to miss Jeeptober Fest in the Smokies on October 19 in Sevierville, featuring contests, motor shows, and family-friendly fun in the Smokies.
As October rolls on, family-friendly events abound. The Pigeon Forge Community Center hosts the annual Halloween Spooktacular & Safety Day on October 24, designed for kids with NO scares, just costumes, candy, and games – all at no charge.
Halloween on October 31 arrives with plenty of fun. The Island hosts its annual Trick or Treat for kids in the early evening, while Ripley’s Aquarium in Gatlinburg offers its Trick or Treat Kick-Off Karnival from 11 am to 4 pm. And Sevierville keeps it safe with the annual Spooktacular Block Party, hosted by the Sheriff, wrapping up the month with safe, family-friendly festivities.
Scenic Drives and Fall Colors
The Gatlinburg side of Great Smoky Mountains National Park is full of scenic routes, making even everyday drives feel extraordinary. As the fall colors peak, the beauty of the landscape reaches new heights, with certain areas offering especially breathtaking views. To experience the best of the fall season, check out our guide to the top Scenic Drives and Overlooks in Fall. If you’re interested in more ways to enjoy the foliage, on foot, by car, or via other excursions, explore our comprehensive guide to Where to See Fall Colors in the Smoky Mountains.
Weddings in the Smoky Mountains
The Smoky Mountains are a hugely romantic setting, the perfect backdrop for couples planning a getaway, proposal, wedding, honeymoon, or anniversary celebration. While May is another popular month for weddings, October takes the lead, thanks to the gorgeous autumn scenery. Gatlinburg’s wedding experts help make the process easy and enjoyable. For more details on planning your special day, visit our Gatlinburg Weddings pages, and discover our Romance Packages designed to turn your love into an unforgettable experience.
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