Things to do in November in Pigeon Forge and Surrounding Areas
In November 2025, Pigeon Forge will kick off its annual Winterfest and Dollywood’s Smoky Mountain Christmas, both of which are highlighted by spectacular displays of holiday cheer. Dollywood’s event will feature millions of lights, festive shows, and stunning holiday decorations. The Winterfest celebration will officially begin with a kickoff event on Saturday, November 22, 2025, featuring a free concert and the lighting of a giant Christmas tree at The Island in Pigeon Forge. Visitors can look forward to enchanting light displays, holiday-themed shows, and various attractions throughout the area, creating a magical winter wonderland experience.
Pigeon Forge Winterfest
When - The season officially begins on November 22, 2025, with events extending through the holiday season.
What - The festival showcases millions of lights across Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg, featuring elaborate light displays, animated exhibits, and holiday-themed attractions.
Highlights
Winterfest Kickoff Event - A celebration on November 22, 2025, at The Island, featuring a free concert and the lighting of a 40-foot Christmas tree.
The Island Show Fountain - A choreographed light and fountain show that occurs nightly at 6 pm, 7 pm, 8 pm, and 9 pm.
Festival of Lights - Thousands of lights illuminate SkyLand Ranch.
Light Tours - Explore the holiday light displays throughout the towns via self-guided or guided tours.
Dollywood’s Smoky Mountain Christmas
When - The festival begins in November and continues through the holiday season.
What - This award-winning festival features millions of lights, dozens of Christmas trees, and special holiday-themed shows and rides.
Highlights
Lights - Over six million twinkling lights on display.
Shows - Award-winning rides and attractions, with special shows and fireworks displays on weekends.
Snow in the Grove - A winter wonderland experience featuring music, lights, and artificial snow.
Grand American Opry Dinner Show
November 3 to November 28, 2025
Experience the Grand American Opry in Pigeon Forge this November, surrounded by vibrant fall foliage. Enjoy cozy musical performances indoors, perfect for chilly evenings, and relish the relaxed atmosphere with fewer crowds.
The King Comes Home Dinner Show
November 4 to November 29, 2025
November is ideal for “The King Comes Home,” a tribute to Elvis. Enjoy a cozy evening filled with timeless hits in a beautiful autumn setting as the tourist crowd diminishes.
Country Tonite Show
November 4 to November 30, 2025
Visit the Country Tonite show for a heartwarming Christmas edition. Experience vibrant lights, festive music, and a magical atmosphere that blends fall colors with holiday cheer.
Rocky Top Mountain Coaster
November 3 to November 30, 2025
Experience the Rocky Top Mountain Coaster with stunning autumn scenery. Enjoy comfortable rides in cooler weather and shorter wait times than in summer—truly an exhilarating adventure!
The Redneck Comedy Bus Tour
November 3 to November 30, 2025
Join The Redneck Comedy Bus Tour this November for laughter and breathtaking views of fall foliage. This family-friendly tour blends humor with local history and Appalachian culture.
Steven Best’s Unbelievable Magic Shows
November 4 to November 30, 2025
Experience the Magic Spectacular, featuring mesmerizing illusions and performances set against beautiful November foliage. The festive atmosphere adds to the enchantment of the show.
Christmas at Dolly Parton’s Stampede
October 30, 2025 - January 3, 2026
During November and December, Dolly Parton’s Stampede hosts a festive experience featuring the house band, Mountain Ruckus, and a holiday show with 32 horses, a live nativity scene, and a visit from Santa. Enjoy a four-course meal that includes creamy vegetable soup, rotisserie chicken, pork loin, and dessert, along with unlimited drinks.
Dollywood’s Smoky Mountain Christmas
November 1, 2025 - January 4, 2026
Experience the magic of Dollywood’s Smoky Mountain Christmas, recognized as America’s Best Christmas Event. Enjoy over six million sparkling lights, festive shows like *Christmas in the Smokies*, and a spectacular drone show illuminating the winter sky.
Explore the park’s vibrant holiday decorations and savor hearty dishes and sweet treats. It’s a delightful holiday experience for the whole family!
Christmas Disaster Dinner Show at Hatfield & McCoy Dinner Fued
November 1, 2025 - January 3, 2026
Join Pa Hatfield and Ma McCoy this holiday season as they bring their feuding families together for a night of fun, food, and entertainment! Enjoy singing, dancing, stunts, and comedy for everyone.
Granny’s serving up fried chicken, pulled pork, smashed taters, cole slaw, biscuits, corn, and her special dessert. It’s the best dinner in town!
Christmas at Country Tonite Theatre
November 1 - December 31, 2025
Visit Country Tonite Theatre this Christmas season for a magical experience featuring holiday favorites, stunning choreography, and festive sets. Enjoy guest appearances from Frosty the Snowman, Santa Claus, and the Sugar Plum Fairy. Don’t miss the enchanting moment when the toys come alive during “Where Are You Christmas?” Showtimes are at 3:00 pm and 8:00 pm daily, with an exceptional performance of The Nutcracker on Friday, December 12, 2025.
Titanic Christmas & Winter Celebration
November 2, 2025 - January 1, 2026
Experience the holiday magic on the Titanic from November to December! Admire the festive decorations and join our crew in honoring those who sailed in 1912. Reservations are required, as many dates sell out.
Christmas At Array
November 4, 2025 - January 3, 2026
Celebrate Christmas at the Array Variety Show! Join us for an unforgettable two-hour performance featuring festive lights, timeless music, and dazzling costumes. Enjoy world-class vocalists, talented dancers, and amazing musicians as they bring you your favorite Christmas classics and new favorites. Don’t miss “The Most Wonderful Time of the Year!”
Christmas Never Ends Drive-Thru Light Show
November 5, 2025 - February 15, 2026
Enjoy a festive drive-through Christmas light display! Use code LIGHTS for $2 off admission. Hot chocolate and cookies are available for purchase. Vehicles over 9.5 feet tall or 22 feet long cannot enter.
Open nightly from November 5, 2025.
Location: 1644 Old Newport Hwy, Newport, TN 37821.
Pigeon Forge Winterfest Kickoff 2025
Thu, November 6, 2025 • 3:00 pm - 9:00 pm
Pigeon Forge’s Winterfest Kickoff Celebration is on November 6, 2025, at Patriot Park, starting at 3:00 pm. Enjoy free entertainment, food trucks, and a fireworks display. Admission is free, with parking available. The lights will be up until February 15, 2026.
Gatlinburg Winter Magic
November 6, 2025 - February 15, 2026
Gatlinburg’s Winter Magic features millions of lights and festive displays. Enjoy the Winter Magic Lights Tour and join the Snowpeople Scavenger Hunt by finding 43 unique snowpeople with the Visit Gatlinburg app. Share your selfies using #GatlinburgWinter!
Winterfest Night Flights with Scenic Helicopter Tours
November 6, 2025 - February 15, 2026
Experience the magic of Winterfest from above with Scenic Helicopter Tours’ nighttime flight over Pigeon Forge. Enjoy sparkling views of Sevierville and Pigeon Forge as your pilot highlights iconic spots, including The Island, the Great Smoky Mountain Wheel, and Dollywood. It’s the perfect way to create lasting memories this holiday season. All tours depart from 1949 Winfield Dunn Parkway, Sevierville, with an information office at 1965 Parkway in Pigeon Forge.
Wonders Of Light Christmas Village
The Wonders of Light Christmas Village happens on the first three weekends of November. It features many booths with artisans selling
- November 6-9, 2025
- November 14-16, 2025
- November 21-23, 2025
Winterfest Lights In Pigeon Forge
November 6, 2025 - February 15, 2026
Adorned with over 12 million lights, Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg transform into a magical winter landscape for both residents and visitors to experience during the yearly Winterfest celebration. The Winterfest lights sparkle from early November until the conclusion of February.
Great Smoky Mountains Railroad
Polar Express Train
November 6 - December 31, 2025
Enjoy warm cocoa and treats while listening to the soundtrack on the train to the North Pole, where Santa greets children with silver sleigh bells.
Purchase tickets online or by calling (800) 872-4681. Please book in advance, as many dates sell out. Arrive one hour before departure at Bryson City Depot, NC.
Gatlinburg Chili Cookoff
Thu, November 6, 2025 • 5:00 pm - 9:00 pm
Gatlinburg’s Annual Chili Cookoff and Winter Magic Celebration is on November 6, 2025, on the Parkway. This free event features a variety of chili from local restaurants and kicks off the Winter Magic with over 1 million LED lights. Enjoy festive activities, music, and more. Wristbands for chili sampling are $10 for individuals aged five and above.
SkyLand’s Festival Of Lights
November 7, 2025 - January 3, 2026
Celebrate the holiday season at SkyLand’s Festival of Lights at The Ranch, presented by Food City! Enjoy over half a million lights, spectacular displays, a chairlift ride, and a variety of festive activities. Visit our North Pole Gingerbread Bakery for delicious holiday treats. Join us for a magical night of lights and fun!
Paula Deen’s Lumberjack Feud Christmas Show
November 7, 2025 - January 4, 2026
Choose between naughty and nice and boost your holiday spirit with original tunes and festive activities like log rolling. Cheer for the Dawsons and McGraws in a Christmas competition at Santa’s logging camp! Enjoy winter beer, special mugs, and a giant Christmas tree!
Redneck Comedy Bus Christmas Lights Tour
November 7 - December 30, 2025
Join the Redneck Comedy Bus Tour for a fun Smoky Mountain Christmas Lights Tour in Pigeon Forge! Wear your tacky sweaters and enjoy the festivities at Cooter’s Place on select dates this holiday season.
Appalachian Renaissance Faire
Nov 8-9, 2025 • 10:00 am - 5:00 pm
Join the Appalachian Renaissance Faire on November 8 & 9, from 10 am to 5 pm at 722 E. Dumplin Valley Rd, Kodak, TN. Enjoy live performances, jousts, and a marketplace of handcrafted goods. Fun for all ages!
Cades Cove Loop Lope
Sun, November 9, 2025
The Cades Cove Loop Lope is a footrace in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, benefiting Friends of the Smokies. Choose between a 5K or 10-mile loop. Virtual race options are available for those who are unable to attend. Carpooling is encouraged, and limited vehicle passes are available for purchase.
Snowy Mountain Village at Soaky Mountain Waterpark
November 14 - December 30, 2025 • 6:00 pm - 10:00 pm
Join the fun at Snowy Mountain Village with bounce houses, food, games, and visits with Santa! Open until December 30. Photos with Santa are available on select nights: November 29-30, December 1, 6-8, 13-15, and 20-23, from 7:00 to 10:00 pm.
Wonders Of Light Christmas Village at Patriot Park
The Wonders of Light Christmas Village occurs over the first three weekends in November. This event will showcase numerous booths where artisans and crafters will offer a variety of enjoyable, seasonal items that make excellent gifts. Entry is complimentary.
Schedule Details
November 6-9, 2025
November 14-16, 2025
November 21-23, 2025
Enchanted Christmas at Anakeesta
November 14, 2025 - January 4, 2026
Experience Anakeesta’s Enchanted Christmas in Gatlinburg, a winter wonderland with over a million lights. Enjoy the Hot Cocoa Crawl, festive food, and live entertainment. Explore the TreeTop SkyWalk, meet Santa, and enjoy the magical displays. Don’t miss Breakfast with Santa for a special holiday experience!
Shadrack’s Christmas Wonderland
November 14, 2025 - January 4, 2026
Shadrack’s Christmas Wonderland has moved to Soaky Mountain Waterpark! Enjoy a magical drive-thru light show with a NEW THEME for 2025. Afterward, visit Snowy Mountain Village for more fun. Create unforgettable holiday memories!
Color Me Mutt 5K Color Run at NASCAR SpeedPark
Sat, November 15, 2025 • 8:30 am
Join the Color Me Mutt® 5K & 1-Mile Fun Run/Walk on November 15, 2025, at NASCAR SpeedPark in Sevierville! This pet-friendly event supports the PARC Foundation’s initiatives. The race starts at 8:30 am. Dogs welcome!
Holiday Handcrafters Fair
Sat, November 15, 2025
Join the Great Smoky Mountains Heritage Center for the Holiday Handcrafters Festival! Enjoy free entry and explore a unique selection of crafts and gifts. Celebrate the joy of handmade creations with us!
Christmas at The Comedy Barn
November 17 - December 31, 2025
Celebrate Christmas at The Comedy Barn®! Enjoy a hilarious holiday show featuring festive music, costumes, and lively acts for the ultimate fun experience in the Smokies. Join us for laughter and fun this season!
Friendsgiving Dinner at Ancient Lore Village
Thu, November 20, 2025
Celebrate gratitude at the Friendsgiving Dinner in Ancient Lore Village with a communal feast and seasonal dishes in a cozy setting. Enjoy good company and create lasting connections.
Pancakes and Penguins
Thu, November 20, 2025
Join Ripley’s Aquarium for a special breakfast with penguins! Enjoy pancakes, eggs, and bacon, plus keeper chats and photo ops. Doors open at 8:00 am, with aquarium access at 9:00 am. A portion of the proceeds supports SANCCOB.
Thursday, November 20, 2025 • 8:00 am - 9:00 am
Tuesday, December 23, 2025 • 8:00 am - 9:00 am
Tuesday, December 30, 2025 • 8:00 am - 9:00 am
Bluegrass Christmas In The Smokies Music Festival
Nov 20-22, 2025
Each year, thousands of fans gather at the Gatlinburg Convention Center for the Christmas In The Smokies Bluegrass Festival. Located in the heart of Pigeon Forge, the city sparkles with Christmas decorations. Enjoy shopping, dining, and fun while celebrating at the festival!
Picnic With Paula at Lumberjack Feud Supper Show
Fri, November 21, 2025 • 2:00 pm - 5:00 pm
Experience an exclusive Thanksgiving event with a mouthwatering feast and lots of entertainment alongside Paula herself. The Thanksgiving buffet will feature smoked turkey, cornbread stuffing, sweet potato casserole, cranberry sauce, and many other delightful dishes! Availability is limited, so please call to reserve your tickets.
Wonders Of Light Christmas Village at Patriot Park
Nov 21-23, 2025
The Wonders of Light Christmas Village occurs over the first three weekends in November. This event will feature numerous booths showcasing artisans and crafters offering a diverse range of festive items that make wonderful gifts. Entry is free of charge.
Smoky Mountain Christmas Market
Nov 22-23, 2025 • 10:00 am - 4:00 pm
Join the Smoky Mountain Market on November 22–23, 2025, at the Sevierville Convention Center. Shop unique handmade gifts.
Saturday: 10 am – 5 pm
Sunday: 10 am – 4 pm
Pints & Penguins
Sat, November 22, 2025
Join Pints & Penguins, an adult-only sleepover at Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies! Enjoy appetizers, drinks, a behind-the-scenes tour, and sleep with the African penguins. The event includes a penguin encounter and breakfast. Limited capacity—book in advance! Check in by 7:20 pm; the event ends at 8:30 am the next morning.
Saturday, November 22, 2025
Friday, December 12, 2025
The Island Tree Lighting
Sat, November 22, 2025
Join us for Winterfest at The Island in Pigeon Forge! Enjoy millions of lights, a free concert at 7 pm, and the tree lighting with Paula Deen at 8 pm. Photos with Santa start at 5 pm. Free parking and fun for all!
Great Smoky Holiday Arts & Crafts Show
November 25 - December 7, 2025
Join the Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community at the Gatlinburg Convention Center for their holiday shows:
Thanksgiving Show - November 25 – 30, 2025
Christmas Show - December 1 – 7, 2025
Open daily from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm (4:00 pm on Sundays), explore a unique selection of handcrafted gifts, including quilts, pottery, and jewelry. Experience the artistry of local artisans in a beautiful setting!
Friendsgiving Dinner at Ancient Lore Village
Wed, November 26, 2025
Join the Friendsgiving Dinner at Ancient Lore Village! Enjoy a cozy communal feast with seasonal dishes and heartfelt conversations in a charming storybook setting. Celebrate gratitude and connection with friends, family, and neighbors.
- Thursday, November 20, 2025 • 6:00 pm
- Wednesday, November 26, 2025 • 6:00 pm
Gatlinburg’s Festival of Trees
Nov 26-30, 2025
The 2025 Gatlinburg Festival of Trees at the W.L. Mills Conference Center features children’s activities, photos with Santa, and beautifully decorated trees. It benefits local youth programs.
Dates: November 26-29, from 10 am to 7 pm, and November 30, from 10 am to 5 pm.
A preview event, “Candy Canes and Cocktails,” is scheduled for November 25 at 6 pm. Tickets are $50 and available online.
Thanksgiving Lunch at Ancient Lore Village
Thu, November 27, 2025 • 1:00 pm
Celebrate the holiday at Ancient Lore Village on Thursday, November 27, 2025, at 1:00 pm. Enjoy a festive lunch with turkey, ham, sides, and desserts in a beautiful setting. It’s an excellent opportunity to gather with loved ones and express gratitude. Reserve your limited seats today!
Thanksgiving Feast At Ober Mountain
Thu, November 27, 2025 • 11:00 am - 3:00 pm
Celebrate Thanksgiving at Ober Mountain with a feast, live music, and a FREE souvenir cup! Reserve your spot by calling 865-436-5423 (8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. EDT).
Thanksgiving at Dancing Bear Appalachian Bistro
Thu, November 27, 2025 • 12:00 pm - 5:00 pm
Join the Dancing Bear Appalachian Bistro for a fantastic Thanksgiving Dinner! On Thursday, November 27, we’ll have special hours and a delicious buffet to celebrate the holiday.
Winter Smoky Mountain Tunes & Tales
Nov 28-29, 2025
During the holiday season, Gatlinburg hosts the Winter Magic Tunes & Tales event, featuring caroling, characters, and holiday music every Friday and Saturday. Enjoy the festive atmosphere with millions of lights!
November 28-29, 2025 • 5:00 pm - 9:00 pm
December 5-6, 2025 • 5:00 pm - 9:00 pm
December 12-13, 2025 • 5:00 pm - 9:00 pm
December 19-20, 2025 • 5:00 pm - 9:00 pm