Winterfest Lights And Events In The Smokies 2026

Gatlinburg Craftsmens Fair For Fall 2026

October 12, 2026

Published by Smoky Mountain Guide on November 1, 2026

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A Halloween post on chili and Winterfest lights when it’s still in the mid-70s? Yep, that’s the Smoky Mountains about this time of the year for you! Don’t let the holiday mood whiplash distract you from all the fun you can have, you definitely should already be planning to visit Pigeon Forge and/or Gatlinburg (and definitely “and”, there) when we start the big switch from Autumn Fest to Winter Fest.

In Pigeon Forge, we will be starting Winterfest and turning on the lights on November 6th for 2026. In Gatlinburg, we will be turning on the lights during the Gatlinburg Winter Chili Cookoff on November 12th for 2026. Below, we have official descriptions from their official tourism sites. Take a look:

Annual Pigeon Forge Winterfest Celebration
Draped in more than 6 million winter lights, the annual Pigeon Forge Winterfest celebration creates a winter wonderland for locals and guests alike to enjoy. The lights of Winterfest shine bright from early November until January 31st.

From winter light displays to captivating holiday shows and so much more, here are just a few of the fun ways you can experience the delightful Pigeon Forge Winterfest celebration.

Wonders of Light Walking Trail
Experience one of the nation’s largest free outdoor light festivals along the Winterfest Wonders of Light Walking Trail. This pet- and wheelchair-friendly Riverwalk path glows with over six million dazzling lights, more than 45 nature-themed displays, and unforgettable whimsical scenes.

Winterfest Driving Tour of Lights
Experience the magic of Winterfest from your car on the Winterfest Driving Tour of Lights. Journey down the Parkway to see sparkling displays of Smoky Mountain wildlife, towering trees, giant ornaments, and the Great Smoky Mountain Wheel glowing in festive holiday colors.

Gatlinburg Winter Chili Cookoff
Get ready to bundle up, sip something warm, and feel the magic in the mountain air because the Annual Gatlinburg Winter Festival & Chili Cook-off is back and on the Parkway for a celebration that’s as heartwarming as it is dazzling!

As twilight falls, downtown Gatlinburg transforms into a sparkling wonderland, glowing with over one million twinkling LED lights that dance across the night sky.

Take a stroll along the Parkway from Mountain Mall to Gatlinburg SkyPark and take in the sights, sounds, and scents of the season. This street-style festival brings live music and entertainment, where the rhythms of the holidays echo through the crisp mountain air. Let your inner child run free at the ice skating rink, show off your skills at the axe throwing booth, and warm your heart with the carolers spreading cheer along the way.

Don’t miss the Christmas Tree Farm and Photos with Santa, where twinkling lights and merry smiles make memories you’ll cherish forever. All along the Parkway, you’ll find carnival games, festive photo ops, and even a giant inflatable snow globe that feels straight out of a storybook.