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Seasonal fun

Events

Seasonal events and experiences worth planning a trip around — each with its dates, so you never miss out. Want help building a getaway around one of these? Request a quote →

Last updated November 1, 2026. Enter your ZIP code or address on any event below for a live driving estimate — October Smokies traffic can add time. Always verify the organizer's calendar before you leave, especially farms and selected-day attractions.

Knoxville Convention Center · Knoxville, Tennessee November 6–8, 2026

Knoxville Christmas Fair

East Tennessee's favorite holiday shopping tradition: hundreds of vendors, artisan crafts, seasonal treats, and holiday décor fill the Knoxville Convention Center for one festive weekend.

  • Hundreds of vendors under one roof
  • Artisan crafts, holiday décor & seasonal treats
  • Get an early start on Christmas shopping

How far is this event from you?

Verify event hours on the organizer's site before you go.

Event Details & Tickets Ends in 2d 19h 19m
The Gatlinburg Parkway glowing with Winter Magic lights and snowflake decorations at night
Downtown Gatlinburg Parkway · Gatlinburg, Tennessee Thu, Nov 12, 2026 · 5–9 PM

Gatlinburg Winter Festival & Chili Cookoff

Gatlinburg opens the holiday season with a Parkway street party: the 37th annual chili cook-off presented by Bush's Beans, live music and Santa — all beneath more than a million Winter Magic lights.

  • Taste entries and vote in the People's Choice chili and dessert awards
  • Live music, an ice-skating rink and axe throwing on the Parkway
  • Photos with Santa and a letters-to-Santa station for the kids
  • Bring a canned good for the Gatlinburg Cares food drive

How far is this event from you?

Free to attend; chili tasting wristbands are sold at the event (about $10, first come, first served). A new 21+ VIP package is available for 2026.

Event Details Plan a Weekend Getaway Ends in 6d 19h 19m
Runners in festive turkey hats racing down a downtown street at sunrise on Thanksgiving morning
Downtown Knoxville · Knoxville, Tennessee Thu, Nov 26, 2026 · 8:00 & 8:45 AM

Regal Knoxville Turkey Trot 5K

Thanksgiving-morning 5K on a beloved downtown course, plus the Little Gobbler kids' run — earn your turkey before the feast.

  • 5K at 8:45 AM · Little Gobbler kids' run at 8:00 AM
  • Thanksgiving morning tradition
  • Downtown Knoxville course

How far is this event from you?

Registration required — sign up on runsignup.com.

Register to run Ends in 20d 19h 19m
Downtown Knoxville's Christmas tree lit for the Regal Celebration of Lights
Krutch Park Extension · Knoxville, Tennessee November 27, 2026 · 5:15 – 9:00 PM

Regal Celebration of Lights

Knoxville's official holiday kickoff: the tree lighting ceremony at Krutch Park Extension with live entertainment, refreshments, and special guests — free and open to the public.

  • Official city tree lighting ceremony
  • Free event with live entertainment
  • Same day the Holidays on Ice rink opens on Market Square

How far is this event from you?

Verify event details on the city's site before you go.

Event Details & Tickets Ends in 21d 19h 19m
Gatlinburg Convention Center · Gatlinburg, Tennessee November 24–29, 2026

Great Smoky Thanksgiving Arts & Crafts Show

The Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community's annual Thanksgiving show: juried handmade goods from the largest independent artisan organization in the country, just in time for holiday gift shopping.

  • Juried handmade crafts from local artisans
  • Thanksgiving week — a perfect holiday-week getaway
  • Free admission

How far is this event from you?

Verify hours on the organizer's site before you go.

Event Details & Tickets Plan a Weekend Getaway Ends in 23d 19h 19m
The historic Sevier County Courthouse in downtown Sevierville
Sevier County Courthouse · Sevierville, Tennessee Thu, Dec 3, 2026 · 5:30–8:30 PM

Christmas at the Courthouse

A hometown holiday evening on the courthouse lawn in historic downtown Sevierville: the official Christmas tree lights up beside the Dolly Parton statue, with choirs, wagon rides and Santa.

  • Traditional lighting of the official courthouse Christmas tree
  • Photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus — plus the Grinch and Frosty
  • Local school choirs, wagon rides, crafts and face painting
  • Hot cocoa, holiday treats and a reading of 'Twas the Night Before Christmas

How far is this event from you?

Completely free. Make a weekend of it: Sevierville's 64th Annual Christmas Parade steps off at 11 AM on Saturday, December 5.

Event Details Plan a Weekend Getaway Ends in 27d 19h 19m
Nighttime Christmas parade with illuminated floats rolling down a mountain town street
Downtown Gatlinburg · Gatlinburg, Tennessee Fri, Dec 4, 2026 · 7:30 PM

Gatlinburg Fantasy of Lights Christmas Parade

The Smokies' signature Christmas parade — lighted floats, giant balloons, and marching bands beneath more than a million Winter Magic LED lights. Tree lighting ceremony at 7:25 PM.

  • 51st annual — a Smoky Mountain tradition
  • 1M+ Winter Magic lights
  • Free to watch · crowds near 60,000

How far is this event from you?

Free event. Arrive well before 7:30 PM for a viewing spot. Pairs with Dollywood's Smoky Mountain Christmas.

Parade details Ends in 28d 19h 19m
Floats rolling through the Scott County Christmas Parade
Downtown Oneida · Oneida, Tennessee December 5, 2026

Scott County Christmas Parade

The Scott County Chamber of Commerce's annual Christmas parade rolls through downtown Oneida — floats, bands, and hometown holiday tradition, right here in our backyard.

  • Annual hometown Christmas parade
  • Floats, bands & festive cheer
  • Close to home — right here in Oneida

How far is this event from you?

Confirm the 2026 date and lineup with the Chamber — the official announcement is pending as of early fall. Free to watch along the route.

Chamber Information Ends in 29d 19h 19m
Small-town daytime Christmas parade with decorated floats and a marching band
Downtown Sevierville · Sevierville, Tennessee Sat, Dec 5, 2026 · 11:00 AM

Sevierville Christmas Parade

Classic small-town morning holiday parade — floats, bands, and Santa. Its morning timing pairs perfectly with the previous night's Gatlinburg parade for a two-parade weekend.

  • 64th annual hometown parade
  • Morning timing — two parades, one weekend
  • Free to watch

How far is this event from you?

Free event. Verify the route and time before you go.

Parade details Ends in 29d 19h 19m
Small-town Christmas parade with the Smoky Mountains behind, vintage cars and floats
Townsend Visitor Center · Townsend, Tennessee Sun, Dec 6, 2026 · 2:30 PM

Townsend Christmas Parade

Small-town Christmas parade on the quiet side of the Smokies — the third day of a Smoky Mountain parade weekend.

  • Quiet-side-of-the-Smokies charm
  • Free to watch
  • Combine with Cades Cove

How far is this event from you?

Free event. Verify the time before you go.

Parade details Ends in 30d 19h 19m
Victorian carolers outside a decorated historic building at Christmas at Rugby
Historic Rugby · Rugby, Tennessee December 5 & 12, 2026

Christmas at Rugby

On the first two Saturdays of December, the historic settlement of Rugby celebrates Christmas as if it were still 1880 — an immersive Victorian Christmas celebration in the living village.

  • First two Saturdays in December: Dec 5 & 12
  • Tours of decorated historic buildings & select homes
  • Horse & carriage rides, Cornet Band concert & carolers
  • Father Christmas, tree lighting & Lessons & Carols in Christ Church
  • Optional 5-course Victorian Christmas Dinner in Hester Hall

How far is this event from you?

Dinner seats are limited — book early. See the venue calendar for event details and tickets.

Event Details & Tickets Ends in 36d 19h 19m
Candlelight Christmas at the Museum of Appalachia
Museum of Appalachia · Norris, Tennessee December 11–12, 2026 · 4–9 PM

Candlelight Christmas at the Museum of Appalachia

An old-fashioned Appalachian Christmas after dark: candlelit log cabins, traditional music, storytelling, and heritage demonstrations across two magical evenings.

  • Candlelit cabins & holiday decorations
  • Traditional music & storytelling
  • Heritage demonstrations & seasonal treats

How far is this event from you?

Evenings sell out — get tickets in advance at museumofappalachia.org.

Event Details & Tickets Ends in 36d 19h 19m
Evening Christmas parade with lighted floats and patriotic decorations, families watching
Oak Ridge Turnpike · Oak Ridge, Tennessee Sat, Dec 12, 2026 · 6:00 PM

Oak Ridge Christmas Parade

Thousands of families line the Turnpike for this year's "All-American Christmas" parade honoring America's 250th anniversary — only about 45 minutes from home.

  • 2026 theme: "All-American Christmas" (250th anniversary)
  • ~45 minutes from Oneida
  • Free to watch

How far is this event from you?

Free event. Verify details with the City of Oak Ridge before you go.

City event info Ends in 36d 19h 19m
Fairytale castle at night with Christmas fireworks and holiday lights
Magic Kingdom, Walt Disney World · Orlando, Florida Select nights · Nov 8 – Dec 22, 2026

Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party

Disney’s after-hours Christmas party: the Once Upon a Christmastime Parade, Minnie’s Wonderful Christmastime Fireworks, rare character meets, and complimentary cookies and cocoa.

  • Once Upon a Christmastime Parade & Minnie’s Wonderful Christmastime Fireworks
  • Rare character meets · complimentary cookies & cocoa
  • Tickets $179–$229 · several dates already sold out

How far is this event from you?

Separately ticketed ($179–$229); several dates already sold out — book now.

Event details Ends in 46d 19h 19m
Vintage steam train wrapped in Christmas lights at night with steam rising
Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum · Chattanooga, Tennessee Select dates · Nov 13 – Dec 23, 2026

North Pole Limited Christmas Train

A 75-minute journey to the "North Pole" in decorated vintage railcars — hot chocolate, a cookie, Christmas storytelling, illuminated outdoor scenes, and Santa visiting every seat.

  • Vintage railcars decked for Christmas
  • Hot chocolate, cookies & storytelling
  • Santa visits every seat
  • Daytime from $38 · evening $45 — sells out, book early

How far is this event from you?

Often sells out — book early at tvrail.com. About 3 hours from Oneida; pair with a Chattanooga Christmas weekend.

Tickets & details Ends in 47d 19h 19m
Vintage train decorated with Christmas lights crossing a river at dusk
Blue Ridge Scenic Railway Depot · Blue Ridge, Georgia Nov 27 – Dec 24, 2026

Blue Ridge Scenic Railway Holiday Express

A 1-hour Christmas train ride with Santa, jingle bells, candy canes, and hot chocolate along the Toccoa River.

  • 1-hour Christmas train ride with Santa along the Toccoa River
  • Jingle bells, candy canes & hot chocolate
  • $56.99 adult / $46.99 child

How far is this event from you?

$56.99 adult / $46.99 child; departures sell out — book early.

Event details Ends in 48d 19h 19m
Fireworks exploding over a mountain town main street at midnight with a tall observation tower silhouetted
Gatlinburg Space Needle · Gatlinburg, Tennessee Thu, Dec 31, 2026 · Evening – Midnight

Gatlinburg New Year's Eve Ball Drop & Fireworks

Ring in 2027 Times-Square style at the base of the 407-ft Space Needle — live music through the evening, a pre-midnight drone show, the 15-ft LED ball drop, and a fireworks finale over the Parkway.

  • Free Times-Square-style celebration
  • Live music + pre-midnight drone show
  • 15-ft LED ball drop at midnight
  • Fireworks finale over the Parkway

How far is this event from you?

Free event. Downtown Gatlinburg fills up fast on NYE — arrive early and consider an overnight stay.

Event details Ends in 55d 19h 19m
Outdoor concert stage glowing at night with a Ferris wheel behind and a New Year's Eve crowd
The Island in Pigeon Forge · Pigeon Forge, Tennessee Thu, Dec 31, 2026 · from 7 PM – Midnight

New Year's Eve at The Island

One of the Smokies' biggest NYE parties — a free concert headlined by American Idol Season 24 winner Hannah Harper, capped with a midnight fireworks show.

  • Free concert: Hannah Harper (American Idol S24 winner)
  • Midnight fireworks show
  • Family-friendly & free to attend

How far is this event from you?

Free event. Check the venue schedule for set times.

Event details Ends in 55d 19h 19m
A golden sphere tower glowing at night in a park with fireworks overhead
World's Fair Park · Knoxville, Tennessee Thu, Dec 31, 2026 · 9 PM – Midnight

New Year's Eve at the Sunsphere

Knoxville's free, family-friendly NYE celebration — food trucks, silent disco, live music, and a midnight ball drop from the iconic Sunsphere.

  • Free, alcohol-free & family-friendly
  • Midnight ball drop from the Sunsphere
  • Food trucks, silent disco & live music

How far is this event from you?

Free event. The closest big-city NYE — about 1¼ hours away.

Plan your visit Ends in 55d 19h 19m
Massive outdoor New Year's Eve concert at night with a glowing music-note structure and fireworks
Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park · Nashville, Tennessee Thu, Dec 31, 2026 · Evening – 1 AM

Nashville's Big Bash — New Year's Eve Live

One of the country's biggest New Year's Eve parties — a free outdoor concert for 200,000+ with star country headliners, the midnight Music Note Drop, and fireworks over the State Capitol, broadcast live on CBS.

  • Free outdoor concert · 200,000+ attendees
  • Midnight Music Note Drop + fireworks
  • Broadcast live on CBS

How far is this event from you?

Free event. Lineup to be announced — expect big crowds and book lodging early. About 3 hours from Oneida.

Event details Ends in 55d 19h 19m
Drive-through trail of glowing Christmas light displays at a Kentucky horse farm
Kentucky Horse Park · Lexington, Kentucky Nov 27 – Dec 31, 2026 · closed Christmas Day

Southern Lights Holiday Festival

33rd year of this beloved drive-through: 3 miles and a million lights, plus a Holiday Village with Santa, Animal Land, and model trains.

  • 33rd year · 3-mile drive-through of 1M+ lights
  • Holiday Village with Santa, Animal Land & model trains
  • $35 per carload · nightly 5:30–10 PM

How far is this event from you?

$35 per carload, nightly 5:30–10 PM.

Event details Ends in 55d 19h 19m
Amusement park at Christmas with a towering Eiffel Tower Christmas tree and ice skaters
Kings Island · Mason, Ohio Select nights · Nov 27 – Dec 31, 2026

WinterFest at Kings Island

7 million lights turn the park into a winter wonderland — the Eiffel Tower becomes a 314-foot Christmas tree, with ice skating on the Royal Fountain, the WinterFest Wonderland Parade, and select rides.

  • 7M+ lights · Eiffel Tower becomes a 314-ft Christmas tree
  • Ice skating on the Royal Fountain
  • WinterFest Wonderland Parade & select rides

How far is this event from you?

Select nights only; check the park calendar.

Event details Ends in 55d 19h 19m
New Year’s Eve fireworks over a fairytale castle with a midnight countdown
Magic Kingdom & EPCOT · Orlando, Florida Dec 30 & 31, 2026

New Year’s Eve at Walt Disney World

Fantasy in the Sky fireworks with two showings nightly, character dance parties across Magic Kingdom, and EPCOT’s midnight fireworks over World Showcase Lagoon with DJs in every pavilion — included with park admission.

  • Fantasy in the Sky fireworks — two showings nightly (~7:30 & 11:50 PM)
  • Character dance parties across Magic Kingdom
  • EPCOT midnight fireworks over World Showcase Lagoon

How far is this event from you?

One of the busiest nights of the year; parks can reach capacity — arrive early.

Event details Ends in 55d 19h 19m
Mountaintop New Year’s Eve silent disco with headphones under string lights
Gatlinburg SkyPark · Gatlinburg, Tennessee Thu, Dec 31, 2026 · from 9:30 PM

NYE Lights of Wonder

Ring in the new year on top of the mountain: a silent disco with studio-quality headphones, the new Smoky Mountain Sips bar, and the best aerial view of Gatlinburg’s fireworks and drone show.

  • Silent disco with studio-quality headphones
  • New Smoky Mountain Sips bar
  • Best aerial view of Gatlinburg’s fireworks & drone show

How far is this event from you?

VIP ticketed event; limited capacity.

Event details Ends in 56d 19h 19m
Theme park lagoon at New Year’s Eve with fireworks and a nighttime spectacular
Universal Orlando Resort · Orlando, Florida Thu, Dec 31, 2026

New Year’s Eve at Universal Orlando Resort

Live DJs, entertainment, and midnight countdowns across all four parks — Epic Universe joins the celebration for the first time — plus the CityWalk countdown party and hotel celebrations.

  • Midnight countdowns across all four parks — Epic Universe’s first
  • CityWalk party 4 PM – 2 AM
  • Hotel celebrations for adults & families

How far is this event from you?

Park celebrations included with admission; CityWalk and hotel parties may be separately ticketed.

Event details Ends in 56d 19h 19m
Hand-carved ice sculptures of a cozy Christmas house glowing blue and white
Gaylord Opryland Resort · Nashville, Tennessee Nov 6, 2026 – Jan 2, 2027

ICE! Featuring Home Alone at Gaylord Opryland

All-new this year: ICE! featuring Home Alone — 2 million+ pounds of hand-carved ice across 11 interactive scenes, from the McCallister house to the Wet Bandits' traps, plus five ice slides. Kept at 9°F with parkas provided.

  • All-new Home Alone theme for 2026
  • 11 interactive ice scenes + five ice slides
  • Live carving demos & crystal-clear ice Nativity
  • Plus cirque show, ice tubing & gingerbread decorating

How far is this event from you?

Ticketed event — book at ChristmasAtGaylordOpryland.com. About 3 hours from Oneida; pair it with a Nashville weekend.

Tickets & details Ends in 57d 19h 19m
A colossal wooden ark glowing with Christmas lights against the night sky
Ark Encounter & Creation Museum · Williamstown, Kentucky Thu–Sat · Nov 27, 2026 – Jan 2, 2027

Christmas at the Ark Encounter

Live nativity, a garden of lights, lit-up dinosaurs, and the "Light in the Darkness" laser show on the life-size Ark — all for the cost of parking.

  • Laser show on the life-size Ark
  • Live nativity & garden of lights
  • Evening admission = cost of parking

How far is this event from you?

About 2½–3 hours from Oneida. Closed Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day & NYE — verify dates before you go.

Event details Ends in 57d 19h 19m
Car driving through an underground cavern glowing with millions of Christmas lights
Louisville Mega Cavern · Louisville, Kentucky Nov 13, 2026 – Jan 2, 2027

Lights Under Louisville

The world’s only underground Christmas light show — drive your own vehicle through a cavern glowing with 7 million lights, open daily including Thanksgiving and Christmas Day evenings.

  • World’s only underground Christmas light show
  • 7M+ lights · open daily incl. Thanksgiving & Christmas Day evenings
  • Vehicle passes from $42.99

How far is this event from you?

Vehicle passes from $42.99; advance reservations recommended.

Event details Ends in 57d 19h 19m
Amusement park at night sparkling with Christmas lights and a snow tubing hill
Kentucky Kingdom · Louisville, Kentucky Select days · Nov 21, 2026 – Jan 2, 2027

Christmas at Kentucky Kingdom

1.5 million lights and 300+ trees across four themed zones, including a Snow Zone with Kentucky’s largest real-snow tubing hill at 175 feet, plus Santa meet-and-greets.

  • 1.5M lights & 300+ trees across four themed zones
  • Kentucky’s largest snow tubing hill — 175 ft of real snow
  • Santa meet & greets · included with admission

How far is this event from you?

Included with daily admission or season pass; check the park calendar for operating days.

Event details Ends in 57d 19h 19m
Drive-through Christmas light displays glowing at night at Soaky Mountain Waterpark
Soaky Mountain Waterpark · Sevierville, Tennessee Nov 13, 2026 – Jan 3, 2027

Shadrack's Christmas Wonderland

Pile into the car and cruise slowly through acres of LED displays choreographed to holiday music playing through your radio — one of the most immersive drive-through light shows anywhere, in the heart of Winterfest country.

  • Acres of lights synchronized to music on your car radio
  • 2026 theme: Favorite Tales, inspired by classic storybooks
  • Open nightly 6–10 PM, including holidays, rain or shine
  • Snowy Mountain Village with Santa visits on select nights

How far is this event from you?

Priced per vehicle (standard passes from $39.95) and tickets are non-refundable. Snowy Mountain Village is open on select nights only — check the village calendar before you go.

Event Details & Tickets Plan a Weekend Getaway Ends in 58d 19h 19m
Dollywood's Grist Mill waterwheel outlined in Christmas lights at night
Dollywood · Pigeon Forge, Tennessee Nov 6, 2026 – Jan 3, 2027

Dollywood's Smoky Mountain Christmas

America's Best Christmas Event transforms the park into a winter wonderland: more than 6 million twinkling lights, award-winning holiday shows, and seasonal treats beneath star-lit Smoky Mountain skies.

  • More than 6 million Christmas lights across the park
  • Award-winning shows: Christmas in the Smokies, 'Twas the Night Before Christmas & more
  • Snow in the Grove nighttime experience in Wildwood Grove
  • Festive fireworks on select weekends

How far is this event from you?

Included with regular park admission. One of the busiest times of the year — book lodging and tickets early.

Event Details & Tickets Plan a Weekend Getaway Ends in 58d 19h 19m
Santa hugging children aboard the decorated Polar Express train car
Great Smoky Mountains Railroad · Bryson City, North Carolina Nov 5, 2026 – Jan 3, 2027 · select evenings

THE POLAR EXPRESS™ — Great Smoky Mountains Railroad

Climb aboard at the Bryson City Depot for a magical 1¼-hour journey to the North Pole — hot chocolate and sweet treats onboard, then Santa joins the return trip and presents each child with the first gift of Christmas: a silver sleigh bell.

  • Hot chocolate & sweet treats served onboard
  • Storytelling, music & dancing chefs along the way
  • Santa visits every child with a silver sleigh bell
  • Pajamas encouraged — a perfect Christmas surprise

How far is this event from you?

Advance reservations strongly recommended — popular departures sell out. Arrive one hour before your scheduled departure.

Tickets & departures Ends in 58d 19h 19m
The Holidays on Ice rink in Market Square, Knoxville
Market Square · Knoxville, Tennessee November 27, 2026 – January 3, 2027

Holidays on Ice

An open-air ice skating rink in the heart of downtown Knoxville's Market Square — skate under the twinkling lights all season long, with hot cocoa and festive fun around every corner.

  • Outdoor rink in historic Market Square
  • Skate rental included with admission
  • Special holiday hours — closed Christmas Day

How far is this event from you?

Check current season hours and ticket prices before you go — the organizer's site is still showing last season's schedule as of early fall.

Event Details & Tickets Ends in 58d 19h 19m
Families walking through a holiday light tunnel at Light the Park in Farragut
Founders Park at Campbell Station · Farragut, Tennessee November 24, 2026 – January 3, 2027 · nightly, dusk–10 PM

Light the Park

Farragut's dazzling holiday tradition: more than 100,000 sparkling lights along Campbell Station Road, glowing nightly from dusk to 10 PM — a free, stroll-and-enjoy evening out.

  • Free kickoff: "Countdown to Light the Park" — Monday, Nov 23
  • More than 100,000 lights, nightly dusk–10 PM
  • Letter-to-Santa mailbox & festive photo spots

How far is this event from you?

Verify event details on the organizer's site before you go.

Event Details & Tickets Ends in 58d 19h 19m
Zoo at night glowing with animal-shaped lantern displays and a towering illuminated Christmas tree
Nashville Zoo · Nashville, Tennessee Nov 13, 2026 – Jan 3, 2027 · nightly 5 – 9 PM

Glow Wild at the Nashville Zoo

Brand-new for 2026: glowing wildlife lantern displays, an 85-ft Christmas tree with a synchronized light show, select animal exhibits open after dark, Santa nightly Nov 24–Dec 24, and an outdoor ice rink.

  • All-new 2026 holiday light experience
  • 85-ft tree with synchronized light show
  • Tigers, bears & flamingos after dark
  • Outdoor ice rink ($12 incl. rental)

How far is this event from you?

Ticketed event. About 3 hours from Oneida — a great new reason for a Nashville holiday trip.

Tickets & details Ends in 58d 19h 19m
Historic mansion and gardens dressed in a million Christmas lights at night
Cheekwood Estate & Gardens · Nashville, Tennessee Nov 20, 2026 – Jan 3, 2027

Holiday LIGHTS at Cheekwood

More than a million lights along a one-mile garden path — 2026 adds a French-inspired mansion transformation by a former White House floral designer, a 28-foot Pixel Pine, heated igloos, and Santa visits.

  • 1M+ lights on a one-mile garden route
  • French-inspired mansion transformation by former White House floral designer Laura Dowling
  • 28-ft Pixel Pine, heated igloos & Santa visits

How far is this event from you?

Timed-entry tickets; advance purchase recommended.

Event details Ends in 58d 19h 19m
Mountaintop park at night with a million twinkling Christmas lights over the Smokies
Anakeesta · Gatlinburg, Tennessee Nov 13, 2026 – Jan 3, 2027

Enchanted Christmas at Anakeesta

Christmas on top of the Smokies — a mountaintop celebration with a million twinkling lights overlooking the mountains.

  • 1M+ twinkling lights over the Smokies
  • Mountaintop Christmas celebration

How far is this event from you?

Included with Anakeesta admission; check the park calendar before you go.

Event details Ends in 58d 19h 19m
Botanical garden path glowing with holiday lights at night
The North Carolina Arboretum · Asheville, North Carolina Nov 13, 2026 – Jan 3, 2027

Winter Lights at The North Carolina Arboretum

An after-dark walk-through holiday light experience in the Blue Ridge botanical gardens — a perfect pairing with a Biltmore Christmas trip.

  • After-dark walk-through holiday light experience
  • Set in Blue Ridge botanical gardens

How far is this event from you?

Timed-entry tickets; advance purchase recommended.

Event details Ends in 58d 19h 19m
Elaborate gingerbread house display in a grand historic hotel lobby
Omni Grove Park Inn · Asheville, North Carolina Nov 16, 2026 – Jan 3, 2027

National Gingerbread House Competition

The annual display of elaborate competition gingerbread houses at the historic Grove Park Inn — one of Asheville’s signature holiday draws.

  • Elaborate competition gingerbread houses on display
  • Historic Omni Grove Park Inn setting
  • A major Asheville holiday draw

How far is this event from you?

Display viewing is free; the inn books up early for the holidays.

Event details Ends in 58d 19h 19m
Seven-mile drive-through of millions of Christmas lights in garden grounds
Callaway Resort & Gardens · Pine Mountain, Georgia Nov 15, 2026 – Jan 3, 2027

Fantasy in Lights

A drive-market classic: 8–10 million lights over a 7-mile drive-through (or ride the Jolly Trolley), plus Christmas Village, Bike Night, and a new 2026 Run Callaway race weekend Dec 4–6.

  • 8–10M lights over a 7-mile drive-through (or Jolly Trolley)
  • Christmas Village & Bike Night
  • New 2026 Run Callaway race weekend Dec 4–6

How far is this event from you?

Drive-through tickets per vehicle; opening weekend sells out.

Event details Ends in 58d 19h 19m
Zoo at night glowing with millions of LED holiday lights and animal lanterns
Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden · Cincinnati, Ohio Nov 19, 2026 – Jan 3, 2027

PNC Festival of Lights

44th annual: 5 million LED lights, animal lanterns, a Wild Lights Show, and Santa’s Village — repeatedly ranked among the nation’s top zoo light displays.

  • 44th annual · 5M LED lights
  • Animal lanterns, Wild Lights Show & Santa’s Village
  • Ranked among the nation’s top zoo light displays

How far is this event from you?

Timed-entry tickets; advance purchase recommended.

Event details Ends in 58d 19h 19m
Theme park street at Christmas with a giant decorated tree and holiday parade
Universal Orlando Resort · Orlando, Florida Nov 14, 2026 – Jan 3, 2027

Holidays at Universal Orlando

Grinchmas and the Who-liday Spectacular, the Holiday Parade featuring Macy’s, Christmas in the Wizarding World — including Epic Universe for the first time — most entertainment included with admission.

  • Grinchmas & the Who-liday Spectacular
  • Holiday Parade featuring Macy’s · Christmas in the Wizarding World
  • Epic Universe joins the holidays for the first time

How far is this event from you?

Most holiday entertainment included with park admission.

Event details Ends in 58d 19h 19m
The LeConte Center at Pigeon Forge at dusk, home of Wilderness Wildlife Week
LeConte Center at Pigeon Forge · Pigeon Forge, Tennessee Jan 4–7, 2027

Wilderness Wildlife Week

Four free days celebrating the nature, creatures and culture of the Great Smoky Mountains — classes, seminars and expert-led hikes for everyone from first-time visitors to seasoned Smokies lovers.

  • Dozens of free classes, seminars and demonstrations
  • Guided hikes in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, easy to challenging
  • Smokies photography contest plus local art and handmade goods
  • Programs for kids and adults; beginners welcome

How far is this event from you?

Free and open to the public. The detailed 2027 class and hike schedule will post on the official page as the event gets closer — check before you plan your days.

Event Details Plan a Weekend Getaway Ends in 62d 19h 19m
Biltmore's Grand Staircase dressed in Christmas garland and lights
Biltmore Estate · Asheville, North Carolina Nov 3, 2026 – Jan 9, 2027

Christmas at Biltmore & Candlelight Evenings

America's largest home at its most enchanting: daytime Christmas tours amid towering trees and fragrant garlands, plus Candlelight Christmas Evenings when the house glows by candlelight and firelight.

  • Daytime Christmas at Biltmore house tours
  • Candlelight Christmas Evenings — the estate after dark
  • Antler Hill Village & Winery included, with complimentary wine tasting

How far is this event from you?

The estate's most popular season — holiday dates sell out early, reserve ahead.

See holiday tickets Ends in 64d 19h 19m
Families ice skating together under festive lights at an outdoor rink at night
Wilderness at the Smokies Resort · Sevierville, Tennessee Nov 6, 2026 – Jan 10, 2027

Ice Skating at Wilderness at the Smokies

For the holidays, the resort transforms 3,200 square feet of its outdoor wave pool into a real ice rink. Lace up and glide under the lights, then head inside to warm up at Tennessee's largest indoor waterpark complex.

  • A real ice rink built right into the outdoor wave pool
  • Live DJ nights every Friday and Saturday
  • Santa on Ice visits and Ice Chalet performances on select dates
  • Beginner-friendly youth skate sessions on Saturday mornings

How far is this event from you?

Open Nov 6–8, then daily Nov 13–Jan 3, plus a bonus weekend Jan 8–10. Public admission is $18.99 + tax including skate rental; skating is included free with select direct-booked stays.

Event Details & Tickets Plan a Weekend Getaway Ends in 65d 19h 19m
Winterfest fountain light show at The Island in Pigeon Forge at night
Pigeon Forge · Pigeon Forge, Tennessee November 6, 2026 – January 31, 2027

Pigeon Forge Winterfest

The Smokies' signature winter festival: millions of sparkling lights, dazzling displays, shows, and special events all across Pigeon Forge — free to enjoy.

  • Millions of sparkling holiday lights
  • Dazzling displays across the Parkway — free to enjoy
  • Winter shows, events & seasonal shopping

How far is this event from you?

One of the Smokies' busiest seasons — book lodging early.

Event Details & Tickets Plan a Weekend Getaway Ends in 86d 19h 19m
Winterfest lights over the fountain at The Island in Pigeon Forge
The Island in Pigeon Forge · Pigeon Forge, Tennessee November 21, 2026 – January 31, 2027

Winterfest at The Island

The Island's 23-acre entertainment destination glows with millions of holiday lights — the iconic Great Smoky Mountain Wheel lit for the season, festive decorations, shops, dining, and attractions.

  • Kickoff festivities Saturday, November 21
  • Millions of lights across the 23-acre destination
  • Great Smoky Mountain Wheel lit for the season

How far is this event from you?

One of the Smokies' busiest seasons — book lodging early.

Event Details & Tickets Plan a Weekend Getaway Ends in 86d 19h 19m
Grand Gardens and home exhibitors inside the Knoxville Convention Center during the House & Garden Show
Knoxville Convention Center · Knoxville, Tennessee Feb 5–7, 2027

Dogwood Arts House & Garden Show

Knoxville's perennial preview of spring fills the convention center with more than 10,000 square feet of Grand Gardens, hundreds of home and garden exhibitors, and a Maker Market of regional artists.

  • 10,000+ square feet of Grand Gardens by landscape design firms
  • How-To Stage with DIY demos and expert talks all weekend
  • Maker Market: art, jewelry and handmade goods from local artists
  • The largest annual fundraiser for Dogwood Arts

How far is this event from you?

Friday and Saturday 10 AM–6 PM, Sunday 10 AM–4 PM. Admission is $10 for adults, $8 for seniors and veterans, and free for kids 12 and under.

Event Details & Tickets Plan a Weekend Getaway Ends in 93d 19h 19m
Downtown Gatlinburg glowing with Winter Magic holiday lights
Downtown Gatlinburg · Gatlinburg, Tennessee Nov 5, 2026 – Feb 15, 2027

Gatlinburg Winter Magic

The Smoky Mountain winter season glows with millions of LED lights across downtown Gatlinburg — walk the magical tunnel of lights on River Road and stroll the Parkway displays, all free to enjoy.

  • Millions of LED holiday lights, nightly
  • Tunnel of lights on River Road
  • Kickoff Nov 6: 36th Annual Chili Cookoff & ceremonial lighting
  • Free to enjoy — pairs with shopping, dining & a cozy stay

How far is this event from you?

Kickoff street festival Nov 6, 5–9 PM; chili tasting wristbands $10, first-come first-served. Peak holiday weeks book lodging early.

Event details Ends in 101d 19h 19m
Performers in vibrant Caribbean carnival costumes celebrating at a festival
Private venues in Gatlinburg (shared with pass holders) · Gatlinburg, Tennessee Feb 19–21, 2027

Caribbean Mountain Fest 2027

Caribbean energy meets a Tennessee winter: three days and five curated events — soca, reggae, island food and networking — plus a snow day in the Smokies.

  • One pass covers all five events: parties, a gala and a Caribbean brunch
  • Saturday choice: Ober Mountain snow day or cabin games day
  • Caribbean food, drinks and music all weekend long
  • Hotel packages with admission to all five events available

Weekend passes start at $125; individual event tickets are not sold. Exact venues are shared with ticketed guests before the weekend, and food, drinks and resort activities cost extra unless your package includes them.

Event Details & Tickets Plan a Weekend Getaway Ends in 107d 19h 19m
A singer performing on an outdoor stage for a crowd at the Rossini Festival in downtown Knoxville
Downtown Knoxville · Knoxville, Tennessee Apr 17–18, 2027

Rossini Festival International Street Fair

Knoxville Opera's beloved free street fair takes over downtown with four stages of non-stop performance, global food and more than 75 artisans.

  • Four stages: opera, jazz, gospel, ballet, world music and more
  • International food vendors, from tacos to baklava
  • More than 75 artisan booths and a Kids & Family Fun Zone
  • Journey Around the World scavenger hunt for all ages

How far is this event from you?

Always free. Saturday 10 AM–10 PM and Sunday 12–7 PM in downtown Knoxville.

Event Details Plan a Weekend Getaway Ends in 163d 19h 19m
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