New Year’s Eve festivities in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge provide two exciting locations, each offering a blend of free concerts, live and DJ music, restaurant and theater specials, lively crowds, millions of dazzling lights, and a grand fireworks display to usher in the New Year at midnight.
Across the world, people gather outdoors late into the night to celebrate the year’s end, and the Smoky Mountains are no different. Gatlinburg’s Space Needle typically attracts 50,000 attendees to its New Year’s Eve event, featuring a special countdown and ball drop from the 400-foot tower, followed by a stunning fireworks show.
At the same time in Pigeon Forge, the energy builds at The Island, where free entertainment, a countdown, vibrant lights, and an impressive fireworks display await.
New Year’s Eve in Gatlinburg
Gatlinburg hosts one of the nation’s largest New Year’s Eve celebrations downtown on December 31. The celebration takes place near traffic light #8 at Parkway and Historic Nature Trail, next to the Gatlinburg Convention Center. This prime location provides an excellent view of the Space Needle and the lighted ball drop leading up to midnight when the fireworks begin. The pyrotechnic display is highly regarded, and if you haven’t seen it before, it’s sure to leave an impression.
Here’s a mountainside view from 2023-2024 NYE, showing a scene from the drone displays leading to the ball drop as the Needle begins to fire up some sparks:
Image courtesy of Visit Gatlinburg
Arriving early gives you the chance to enjoy the warm, welcoming atmosphere of locals and visitors alike, with many nearby restaurants, wineries, distilleries, and shops offering special deals. For the latest updates, check the Space Needle Facebook page.
Here’s a clip from the ground:
New Year’s Eve in Pigeon Forge
For families with young children or groups looking for a more spacious venue, Pigeon Forge is a great alternative. The celebration at The Island is a little less crowded, but it still has its own unique charm. While there’s no ball drop, the countdown is followed by a spectacular fireworks show. Parking and entertainment are both free, making it an affordable option.
The Island is a magical spot with plenty of family-friendly attractions, rides, shops, and eateries, many offering specials for the holiday. The stunning observation wheel, lighted fountains, and Christmas lights create a festive atmosphere. The celebration also features live music, dancing, food, attractions, prizes, and much more. Don’t forget to take a ride on the observation wheel for a breathtaking view of the beautifully illuminated surroundings!
And for late-breaking information check The Island/s Facebook page, and check this clip from Smoky Mtn Drone Co:
And remember, no matter which town you choose for your destination, we have cabins across the whole area to suit your stay. Choose from our Pigeon Forge cabins, our Gatlinburg cabin rentals, and our Wears Valley cabins. Everywhere around here is pretty close to anywhere you want to be.
