Updated: June 27, 2025
Planning a trip to the Smokies? This guide rounds up the top annual events in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge—from fireworks and chili cook-offs to classic car shows and mountain music festivals—so you can time your visit around the region's most unforgettable celebrations.
Ever wonder what makes the Smoky Mountains a top destination all year long? A huge part of the charm lies in the vibrant calendar of events, festivals, and live music that bring this scenic region to life.
In this blog, we've curated a list of the best annual events in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge to help you plan your trip around these incredible festivities and enjoy a vibrant display of local culture, friendly faces, and a delightful festive atmosphere in the Smokies.
At Stony Brook, we're all about making your vacation unforgettable. We offer an amazing selection of vacation cabins and chalets in Pigeon Forge, Gatlinburg, Sevierville, and Cosby, all set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Smoky Mountains. For amazing local tips, dive into our destination blog. Whether you're looking to savor delicious local cuisine or indulge in some great shopping, we've got the scoop on all the top spots in the region.
Now let's jump into a calendar of great annual events!
Contents
1. The Best Annual Events in Pigeon Forge
2. Summer Events in Pigeon Forge
3. Fall Events in Pigeon Forge
4. Winter Events in Pigeon Forge
5. Spring Events in Pigeon Forge
6. The Best Annual Events in Gatlinburg
7. Summer Events in Gatlinburg
9. Winter Events in Gatlinburg
10. Spring Events in Gatlinburg
11. Wondering where to stay in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge?
The Best Annual Events in Pigeon Forge
Summer Events in Pigeon Forge
Dollywood's Summer Celebration
From June through early August, Dollywood hosts one of the biggest summer events in Pigeon Forge, featuring extended park hours, nightly fireworks, and special performances. The park is transformed into a summer wonderland with spectacular shows, rides, and music.
The summer before last, my family and I experienced this magical celebration firsthand during our July visit. We arrived in the afternoon planning to stay just a few hours, but the extended park hours meant we could take our time and really soak everything in. My kids were mesmerized by the live bluegrass performances on the outdoor stages, and we found ourselves lingering much longer than expected just listening to the music echoing through the park.
The highlight came around 9:30 PM when we grabbed spots on the lawn for the nightly fireworks show. Watching those colorful bursts light up the Tennessee sky while surrounded by families on blankets, with the distant sound of roller coasters and laughter in the background, felt like the perfect summer evening. We ended up staying until the park closed at 10 PM, completely enchanted by the atmosphere that only Dollywood's summer celebration can create.
Pontiacs in Pigeon Forge
Early June brings a Pontiac extravaganza to Pigeon Forge. The Main Parkway transforms into an incredible display of classic and modern Pontiacs, from GTOs and Firebirds to Trans Ams and other models. The event draws Pontiac owners and car enthusiasts from all over the country and also features a variety of vendors offering Pontiac-related products, from parts and accessories to clothing and collectibles, as well as a swap meet.
Summer Concert Series at the Island
Throughout the summer at The Island in Pigeon Forge, you can enjoy free outdoor concerts featuring various local and national bands playing a range of music genres. This event is perfect for relaxing and enjoying great music under the stars, while also exploring The Island's shops, restaurants, and attractions.
Fall Events in Pigeon Forge
Harvest Festival at Dollywood
Running from early September through late October, the Harvest Festival at Dollywood is a must-attend fall celebration in town.This event transforms Dollywood into a vibrant autumn wonderland, filled with the sights, sounds, smells, and tastes of fall. You can enjoy live performances of gospel and bluegrass music, stroll through displays of handcrafted goods from artisans across the country, and savor seasonal dishes. A major highlight is the Great Pumpkin LumiNights, featuring thousands of creatively carved pumpkins and illuminated displays.
Pigeon Forge Fall Rod Run
This is another great event for car lovers! Taking place over three days in September, Pigeon Forge Fall Rod Run showcases thousands of classic cars and trucks, making it a haven for automotive enthusiasts. Activities range from a massive swap meet and hundreds of show cars to a car corral and contests with top prizes and cash giveaways. This event offers a fun way to kick off the fall, celebrating the best in automotive excellence and nostalgia.
Pigeon Forge Bluegrass Festival
End-of-September is all about celebrating the best bluegrass talent in the country. Hosted at the LeConte Center, this festival delivers an evening of soulful bluegrass music that captures the essence of Americana. In addition to the mesmerizing performances, attendees can explore a wide array of food vendors and craft booths, enhancing the festival's lively atmosphere.
Winter Events in Pigeon Forge
Pigeon Forge Winterfest
November through February Winterfest transforms the entire city with over five million sparkling lights and elaborate light displays. The event features everything from holiday-themed shows and activities to the incredible Winterfest Driving Tour of Lights, making it one of the most magical winter events in the Smokies.
Dollywood's Smoky Mountain Christmas
Every season at Dollywood brings special celebrations, and Christmas is no exception. From early November through early January, Dollywood is adorned with millions of lights for this award-winning event. You and your family can enjoy festive shows, parades, the nightly "Christmas in the Smokies" performance, and visits with Santa. The Glacier Ridge section of the park is a highlight, offering a magical winter wonderland experience.
We visited Dollywood during their Christmas celebration three years ago, and I'll never forget walking through the gates that first evening in December. The sheer number of twinkling lights was overwhelming in the best possible way – everywhere you looked, trees, buildings, and pathways sparkled like something out of a fairy tale. The whole experience felt so genuinely magical that we've made it an annual tradition.
Spring Events in Pigeon Forge
Music in the Mountains Spring Parade
This lively parade celebrates Pigeon Forge's rich musical heritage with floats, live performers, and marching bands in early May. It's a fun sight to see the floats carrying live bands or performers playing traditional mountain music, including bluegrass, country, and gospel. This is another family-friendly event that brings together locals and visitors for a day of fun and music along the Parkway.
Chuck Wagon Cook Off
This unique event showcases authentic chuck wagons preparing traditional cowboy meals over open fires. It features tastings, live music, and opportunities to learn about the history of chuck wagons and the cowboy way of life. The event takes place at Clabough's Campground in early March.
Spring Wildflower Pilgrimage
Spring Wildflower Pilgrimage is a week-long event focused on the natural beauty of the Smoky Mountains in the spring. In late April you can participate in guided hikes, workshops, and educational programs led by botanists, wildlife experts, and park rangers. It's a fantastic opportunity to see the region's famous wildflowers in full bloom in one of the most beautiful National Parks in the country.
The Best Annual Events in Gatlinburg
Summer Events in Gatlinburg
Gatlinburg 4th of July Midnight Parade
Gatlinburg kicks off Independence Day with the nation's first 4th of July parade, starting right at midnight. The parade in Downtown Gatlinburg features patriotic floats, marching bands, and live entertainment, drawing large crowds to celebrate the holiday.
Gatlinburg River Raft Regatta
The Gatlinburg River Raft Regatta is a family-friendly race featuring unmanned, floatable objects (from rafts to rubber ducks) competing down the Little Pigeon River. Open to both locals and visitors, it's a fun and quirky way to celebrate the 4th of July in Gatlinburg.
Smoky Mountain Tunes & Tales
This popular summer event brings Downtown Gatlinburg to life from June to early August with costumed storytellers, musicians, and artisans. It's a wonderful opportunity to dance and enjoy high-quality live performances of Appalachian music and folklore along the streets, experience the region's vibrant culture, and connect with the locals.
Smoky Mountain Songwriters Festival
Happening in late August across various venues in the city, the Smoky Mountain Songwriters Festival celebrates the craft of songwriting, featuring performances by talented local and national songwriters. Workshops, showcases, and concerts offer music lovers the chance to connect with the creators behind their favorite tunes in an intimate setting.
Fall Events in Gatlinburg
Gatlinburg Harvest Festival
Running from late September to early November, the Gatlinburg Harvest Festival transforms the town into a vibrant autumn retreat. The streets are festively decorated with seasonal touches like hay bales, scarecrows, and pumpkins. Highlights include the Scarecrow Scavenger Hunt and voting for the Best Harvest Decorations.
Anakeesta's Bear-Varian Fall Festival
The Bear-Varian Fall Festival at Anakeesta is a must-visit event in Gatlinburg for anyone who loves the magic of fall combined with a fun, Bavarian twist. With its unique mix of food, live entertainment, and stunning scenery, it's the perfect way to celebrate the season in the heart of the Smoky Mountains.
Ripley's Trick or Treat Kick-Off Karnival
Join the fun on October 31st at Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies Plaza for Ripley's Trick or Treat Kick-Off Karnival, an exciting event perfect for Halloween lovers of all ages. With trick-or-treat stations, costumed characters, and contests like the costume competition, there's something for everyone. Kids and families can enjoy live entertainment and games, while seasonal food from local vendors completes the Halloween celebration.
Gatlinburg's Chili Cook Off
A favorite annual event in early November, Gatlinburg's Chili Cook Off adds some heat to the cool autumn air. The main attraction is the chili cookoff, where local chefs and businesses compete for the top spot, offering samples for attendees to taste and vote on. Come prepared to savor a variety of chili recipes, enjoy live music, and even meet Bush's Beans' mascot, Duke the Dog.
Winter Events in Gatlinburg
Gatlinburg Winter Magic
Gatlinburg transforms into a winter wonderland with over 3 million LED lights decorating the town during the holiday season. The Winter Magic lights feature animated displays, whimsical holiday scenes, and sparkling decorations along the Parkway, creating a magical atmosphere throughout the season. If you visit between November and February, you can't miss the enchanting sights and festive spirit of Winter Magic.
Fantasy of Lights Christmas Parade
This award-winning parade in early December is a holiday season highlight, featuring illuminated floats, marching bands, giant balloons, and performances throughout Downtown Gatlinburg. It attracts large crowds and spreads holiday cheer, with Santa Claus making a special appearance at the end. It's undoubtedly a favorite event for kids in Gatlinburg.
Spring Events in Gatlinburg
Ober Gatlinburg MayFest
Ober Gatlinburg MayFest in early May celebrates Bavarian heritage in full swing, showcasing vibrant German culture with music, traditional dances, and festive foods. The event includes Maypole dances, crafts, and plenty of family-friendly activities, all set in the beautiful alpine setting of Ober Gatlinburg Ski Resort. Last May, I stumbled upon the bratwurst booth and ended up staying for the entire Maypole dance. It was a beautiful experience, to say the least.
Wondering where to stay in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge?
Why not enhance your vacation with the stunning backdrop of the Smoky Mountains in a great rental property?
At Stony Brook, we offer an exceptional array of cabins and chalets in Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, Sevierville, and Cosby, ranging from one to 16 bedrooms. As a family-owned service, we guarantee you'll have the best experience in the Smokies!
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