We’ve spent a lot of time around the state of Tennessee, but there is something just very magical around the Holiday Season in Tennessee.
We’ve rounded up the best Holiday events that you should mark on your calendar as you ring in the merry season!
Pigeon Forge Winterfest
Starting on November 10th and going through February 19th.
From the website: “A drive down the Pigeon Forge parkway will treat you to a view of the 12 Days of Christmas in lights. Head to Gatlinburg to see intricate displays of animals native to the Smoky Mountains. Pigeon Forge Winterfest takes the bite out of winter frost and transforms the area into a metropolis of winter fun. Join winter-minded folks and enjoy activities in Pigeon Forge, Gatlinburg, Sevierville, and small towns nestled near the Smoky Mountains.”
From night time helicopter tours of the light displays taking off from Sevierville and flying over the area including Dollywood. The tour is $139 per person.
The famous Pink Jeep tours also are getting into the holiday spirit. You won’t be cold and you’ll hear the stories of the area and you’ll get to see the 20 different light displays. Adult tickets for the Pink Jeep Tours are $48
The Wonders of Light Walking Trail is new for 2022 and has over a million lights to ohh and ahh over.
There is so much more to know about Winterfest that you can find more about here.
Smoky Mountain Christmas in Dollywood – Pigeon Forge
Smoky Mountain Christmas at Dollywood runs early November – January 1st.
Just like everything else that Dollywood does, this is an absolutely spectacular event. There are over 6 million Christmas lights through out the different lands within Dollywood, each land telling a different story.
A new addition for this season is the Dollywood Express Lights experience. Travel from one land to the next in the comfort of the train all while listening to Christmas music.
Rock City’s Enchanted Garden of Lights – Chattanooga
This event runs November 18th – January 1st and is best enjoyed at night.
From their website: “This magical Christmas lights experience is one of Chattanooga’s memorable winter events. Take a stroll down the lighted Grand Corridor in Yule Town, experience the twinkle of icy lights in the Arctic Kingdom, and the Magic Forest comes alive to reveal exciting enchantments!”
Read more about Rock City’s Enchanted Garden of Lights. Tickets start at $19.95 for certain value nights.
Candy Land Christmas – Johnson City
Starting on November 26th there is a lighting of the Christmas trees at Kings Commons which is in downtown Johnson City. The Christmas trees say on display through January 8th.
In addition to the tree lighting there are other events that take place during the holiday season like: Small Business Saturday, Sip, Shop and Stroll and a Holiday Market.
I was fortunate enough to visit Johnson City and I fell in love with the hospitality and the people, so I am certain that this event is nothing short of spectacular.
Learn more about Candy Land Christmas
Christmas at Gaylord Opryland
My family and I were fortunate enough to visit the Gaylord Opryland at Christmas several years ago and it was so incredible.
The signature event across all Gaylord properties is ICE!, guests are given blue parkas to navigate a chilly space that houses ice sculptures (these are incredibly intricate) and so very impressive.
But there is so much more than just ICE!, like ice tubing, ice skating, gingerbread decorating area, breakfast with Rudolph and more.
There is so much to do while visiting the Gaylord Opryland for Christmas!
Zoo Lights at Memphis Zoo
Zoo Lights at the Memphis Zoo from November 18th – January 1st on select nights. Tickets are $14 for members and $19 for non members.
From the website: “We’re decking the halls with gorgeous displays and some of your favorite Zoo Light features including the Twinkle Tunnel, Ice Rink, Ferris Wheel, Magic Mr. Nick, Animal Meet and Greets, the Arctic Outpost Adventure, and so much more! This year we are also adding some brand-new decorations, including beautiful Chinese lanterns. Take a snack break at one of our S’more stations or sip on some delicious hot cocoa from Ancient Grounds.”
Clarksville Speedway’s Drive – Thru Christmas Lights
Starting November 22 and going through January 1st.
From their website: “Start a new holiday tradition with your family while enjoying over one mile, and over a three million lights, from the comfort of your car.”
The cost is $30 a car and a very unique Christmas Experience!
Which event do you think your family would enjoy the most?
