The weather is turning colder, and the days are growing shorter. In Sevierville, Tennessee we celebrate winter with millions of lights and family fun around every corner during Smoky Mountain Winterfest (Nov. 13 through Feb. 22).
While the 15 million lights stretched along the Parkway in Sevierville, Pigeon Forge, and Gatlinburg are certainly the main attraction, Winterfest also offers countless ways for families to have fun day and night. Here are five great Winterfest activities the whole family is sure to enjoy.
Ice Skating (and Waterpark Fun) at Wilderness at the Smokies
Wilderness at the Smokies Waterpark Resort gets all gussied up for the Christmas season. With a towering Christmas tree in the lobby and occasional appearances by Santa and Mrs. Claus, this is a fun place to stay or visit during the holidays. The outdoor ice rink (Nov. 13 – Jan. 10) is a favorite activity for guests and is also open to the public with daily tickets available. Pack the swimsuits, too! Those staying at Wilderness at the Smokies can also enjoy the 66,000 square foot indoor, year-round waterpark with thrilling waterslides, a wave pool, and a surf simulator.
Shadrack’s Christmas Wonderland
Make plans to be amazed at Shadrack’s Christmas Wonderland (November 13 – January 3). Billed as one of the most immersive light shows on Earth, this 1.5 mile LED light show is perfectly synchronized to music played on your car stereo. New for 2020, drive through the 300-foot long kaleidoscope light tunnel and marvel at the show’s newest centerpiece, a 70-foot tall RGB light tree. Every year Shadrack’s introduces a different light display theme for one section of the show. This year’s theme is Santa’s Beach Party, which gives a glimpse of how the North Pole gang spent their summer vacation. Shadrack’s Christmas Wonderland designs and builds every display in-house, from conception to on-site construction – ensuring their light shows are one of a kind!
Christmas Shopping
Sevierville is known for shopping – and during the holidays shopping is an attraction all by itself. Explore over 100 high end outlet stores at Tanger Outlets Sevierville and find great savings on designer products. Then browse Sevierville’s collection of antique stores, boutiques, and galleries for interesting gift ideas. Shop for outdoor gear at stores like Bass Pro and Orvis or browse unique stores in town for handmade items crafted locally. No matter what you’re looking for, you’re sure to find it in Sevierville’s wide variety of retail stores.
Dollywood’s Smoky Mountain Christmas
What’s a visit to Dolly Parton’s hometown of Sevierville without enjoying some time at Dollywood? The theme park’s Smoky Mountain Christmas event runs November 7 through the holiday season and features millions of twinkling lights, entertaining holiday shows, and thrilling rides.
Ober Gatlinburg
Ober Gatlinburg is snow fun – with opportunities to ski, snowboard, snow tube, ice skate, or play in Cubby’s Snow Zone. On average, the ski and snowboard season begins in mid-December and can last as late as mid-March, depending on the weather. Snow tubing opens the Saturday before Thanksgiving and goes through March 31 while ice skating is indoor and year-round, so you can enjoy a spin around the rink any time of year. Ride the aerial tram to the top of the mountain and enjoy a day filled with winter fun and fantastic views of the Smokies.