During the Winter Magic and Winterfest celebrations, Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge sparkle with millions of colorful, animated lights. Here’s how to catch the best light displays in the region.
Gatlinburg Christmas Lights © courtesy of Dean Brown
Gatlinburg Winter Magic Tour of Lights
To experience the festive lights in Gatlinburg, simply stroll along Parkway in the evening and be amazed. However, to find the top displays, you’ll need some insider tips. Each year, the City of Gatlinburg releases a special map for a self-guided tour.
Previously, the Gatlinburg Trolley offered a paid tour, but now that the trolley service is completely free all across town, that specific tour is no longer available. Thankfully, the tour map allows you to discover the best lights – just ensure your driver follows the route while you capture photos.
The Tour of Lights will guide you through the downtown area, including Parkway and River Road. You’ll also travel along parts of Highway 321, where you can see stunning displays featuring animated animals, holiday characters, dancing fountains, and various Christmas scenes.
Pigeon Forge Winterfest Driving Tour of Lights
Not to be outdone, Pigeon Forge showcases its own winter light displays. Although Pigeon Forge has discontinued its trolley tour, it provides a free annual map highlighting the best light displays for self-navigation. You can pick up a Driving Tour of Lights map at any Welcome Center in Pigeon Forge.
Image courtesy of Pigeon Forge
With over 5 million lights illuminating the area, many are along the Pigeon Forge Parkway, right in the heart of town. Don’t miss Dollywood’s Smoky Mountain Christmas for even more holiday magic, as well as the impressive lights at Patriot Park, located just northeast of Parkway. While you’re there, be sure to explore the new Wonders of Light Walking Trail along Pigeon Forge’s excellent walking and biking trail, the Riverwalk Greenway.
The Pigeon Forge Winterfest Lights typically light up around early November, around Veteran’s Day, and remain on until late February. This self-driving tour is ideal for families wanting to create their own schedules, travel with pets, or accommodate young children who may not enjoy longer trolley rides.
Remember, Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge aren’t the only spots for holiday lights in the area. Check out our guide to the major Christmas lights in the Smokies for even more dazzling displays and festive fireworks this season.
Whichever town you prefer to be closer to, we have cabins all over the area that can put you where you want to be. Check out our Gatlinburg Cabins and our Pigeon Forge Cabins pages, or for a little quieter (and very scenic) area, try the Wears Valley Cabins page.
And all cabins get our Free Ticket book of Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg Coupons, worth over $1,350!
