Christmas in the Smokies is a magical time. There is so much to see and do. Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge and Sevierville all turn into a winter wonderland inviting visitors and locals alike to experience the warmth and joy of the holiday season.
Sevierville kicks off the celebration on November 7, 2011 with their annual Winterfest Party that includes free food, entertainment, fireworks and followed by the official town lighting ceremony. Pigeon Forge follows the next night and Gatlinburg illuminates their winter display on the 8th.
Millions of lights between the three towns combine to make this one of the largest and most beautiful Christmas displays in the country, and the display continues until after Valentine’s Day.
While it cost nothing to drive through Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge and Sevierville to view the lights, the best way for the entire family to enjoy the lights is to board the Winterfest Trolley in Pigeon Forge or the Winter Magic Trolley in Gatlinburg.
Pigeon Forge lights up with over five million lights. Be sure to stop by the Sevierville Visitors Center on Highway 66 to pick up a pair of 3D glasses to wear on the tour. The 3D glasses turn the lights into snowflakes and are fun for the kids.
Pigeon Forge’s Winterfest Trolley Tour leaves Patriot Park, Monday through Friday evenings at 6:30, 7:45 and 9:00p.m. The cost is $5.00 per person. The tour last approximately 1 hour. For further information or to make a reservation (a good idea as Christmas approaches), call 865-453-6444.
Gatlinburg’s Winter Magic Trolley Tour leaves the Trolley Stand at Ripley’s Aquarium at 6:30, &:30, and 8:30 evenings, seven nights a week. The price is also $5.00 and the tour last 45 minutes.
Returning this year is the Shadrack’s Christmas Wonderland at the Tennessee Smokie’s Baseball Stadium. According to Shadrack’s this is the world’s largest drive through synchronizes to music, LED Christmas light display in the country. Shadrack’s Christmas Wonderland runs from November 11 until January 8, from dusk until 10 p.m. Tickets are $15.00 for cars and family vans Monday through Thursday, and $20.00 on weekends, holidays and Christmas week. www.shadrackchristmas.com