With Christmas lasting all December long in the spectacular Smoky Mountains, Gatlinburg welcomes you with one month of countless celebrations, great family-friendly entertainment, holiday shopping experiences, and breathtaking Christmas displays, all beautifully combined with the natural charm of the surroundings.
If you want to get into the Christmas spirit and spread the joys of the winter season while exploring the gateway to the beautiful Great Smoky Mountains National Park, continue reading this article and find out all about spending our Christmas time in Gatlinburg.
Rent Cozy Smoky Mountains Cabin
We’re all dreaming of spending our winter holidays in a warm place with spectacular views of snow-covered mountains in the distance and plenty of things to do and see available. Luckily, if Gatlinburg is this year’s Christmas destination, you’ll find plenty of homey cabins with lovely amenities in the Smoky Mountains.
The welcoming mountains cabins offer you a relaxing stay, promising to keep you warm during the cold weather. Also, many of them include fireplaces, private hot tubs, and other special surprises, giving visitors the chance to pamper themselves while getting into the Christmas spirit.
Explore the National Park in Winter
While certain areas do close for the winter, there are plenty of areas perfect for a scenic drive through the Smoky Mountains. The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is open even on Christmas Day when most attractions have their doors closed. And, if you are lucky, you might be visiting it just in time to experience a fun snow shower.
Because of the high elevations in the mountains, much of the national park receives more snowfall than Gatlinburg, and December is known for the often snow showers. If snow is your cup of tea, consider taking trips to high elevation areas in the park, such as Newfound Gap, a spot also known for its breathtaking views. Other areas of the park you can enjoy in winter are Frozen Waterfalls on the Roaring Fork, as well as the Historic Cabins in Cades Cove.
Enjoy the Christmas Lights and Holiday Attractions
During December, Gatlinburg is a heavenly destination for all Christmas aficionados who can’t get enough of superb lights, fun winter activities, and cool events, like the Fantasy of Lights Christmas Parade, known for bringing more joyful moments to the Smokies. Also, the fantastic display of Christmas lights at Gatlinburg’s Winter Magic Festival can bring the holiday spirit even to the most skeptical visitors.
For those who travel with excited kids or want to enjoy the snow themselves, Ober Gatlinburg and the snow-making machines promise to create a beautiful winter wonderland. Whether you prefer spending your days skiing or snowboarding, you’ll love the snow experience. And if these winter sports are not your cup of tea, the snow tubing offers an exhilarating ride.
In addition, Dollywood welcomes the whole family to celebrate the true meaning of the holidays, with wonderful light displays and fantastic live Christmas shows. Whether you plan to meet Rudolph and his friends with your kids, see the Parade of Many Colors, or enjoy an incredible performance, Dollywood has something to offer to every member of the family.
See A Christmas Show in Pigeon Forge
Located close to Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge is a great spot if you want to explore the theater scene or enjoy one of its many dinner shows. Some of the major venues are The Hatfield & McCoy Dinner Show, the Smoky Mountain Opry, and the Dixie Stampede. All of these bring Christmas to life with fabulous performances.
And if you don’t feel the need to leave Gatlinburg, the town’s local theater, known for its whimsical acts, welcomes you with the Sweet Fanny Adam’s Christmas shows.
Indulge in Relaxing Christmas Shopping Sessions
If shopping is your passion, Gatlinburg awaits you with a few cool spots, like the Christmas Place, where you can find gifts for everyone, decorations, and everything you need to celebrate Christmas in style.
Beautifully decorated, especially during Christmas, the Village Shops in Gatlinburg is also a great place for shopping enthusiasts, who can explore numerous shops, eateries, and boutiques. Whether you’re up for some last-minute Christmas shopping or you need a cup of coffee while visiting the Smokey Mountains in winter, stop by The Village.
And, since you are planning a winter holiday escape, add The Christmas and Candles Shop to your must-visit list. Its gorgeous decorations, twinkling lights, and smell of freshly poured candles are exactly the things you need to find the Christmas spirit.
Your shopping experience at the Candle Shop will be enhanced by the Christmas, Gospel, and Country music, softly playing in the background while you’re catching glimpses of the cool merchandise available.