Bent Creek Golf Course – A Scenic Golfing Experience in the Smoky Mountains
Nestled at the base of the Great Smoky Mountains, Bent Creek Golf Course offers an exceptional golfing experience just minutes from downtown Gatlinburg. This par-72 course was designed by golf legend Gary Player and has been a favorite among locals and visitors since it opened in 1972.
New Year’s Eve Celebrations in Gatlinburg & Pigeon Forge
Ring in the new year in the heart of the Smoky Mountains with two unforgettable celebrations in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge. These neighboring towns offer festive atmospheres filled with music, lights, entertainment, and a shared sense of excitement as midnight approaches.
The Smoky Mountains region, encompassing Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge, offers a vibrant array of festivals and events throughout the year. From springtime celebrations to winter festivities, there's always something happening to enhance your visit. Below is a seasonal guide to help you plan your trip.
Holiday Lights & Events in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge
The Smoky Mountains come alive during the holiday season with one of the most spectacular winter light displays in the country. The annual Winterfest and Winter Magic celebrations in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge transform the region into a dazzling wonderland of millions of twinkling lights, festive events, and family-friendly entertainment.
Scenic Drives in Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Exploring Great Smoky Mountains National Park by car is one of the most accessible and rewarding ways to experience its breathtaking beauty. With nearly 400 miles of roadway winding through the park and its surrounding landscapes, visitors can enjoy dramatic mountain vistas, diverse forests, waterfalls, and historic sites—all from the comfort of their vehicle.
Experience Shadrack’s Christmas Wonderland in Sevierville
For an unforgettable holiday outing that combines cutting-edge technology with timeless festive cheer, head to Sevierville to experience Shadrack’s Christmas Wonderland—one of the region’s most dazzling drive-through light displays. Perfect for families of all ages, this seasonal attraction allows visitors to enjoy an immersive holiday spectacle from the warmth and comfort of their own vehicle.
Discover Clingmans Dome: The Highest Peak in the Smokies
Rising to 6,643 feet, Clingmans Dome stands as the highest point in Great Smoky Mountains National Park and offers breathtaking panoramic views unlike any other location in the region. On a clear day, visitors may see as many as seven states stretching across the horizon. Even if you’re short on time, the drive alone offers scenic rewards, and the vistas from the parking area are unforgettable.
Every winter, the Smoky Mountains region transforms into a luminous wonderland as Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge celebrate the holiday season with millions of vibrant, animated lights. Both cities host spectacular seasonal displays that attract visitors from across the country. Here’s how to experience the most dazzling sights during your winter visit.
