Winterfest Pigeon Forge at a Glance
It’s important to know when and where the festivities begin for seeing the lights up close – whether you’re strolling with family or looking for the perfect selfie backdrop.
2025–26 & Anticipated 2026–27 Dates, Times, and Cost
- 2025–26 Season:
- November 6, 2025 – February 15, 2026
- Lights on every evening from 5:00 p.m. to 1:00 a.m.
- Completely free – no tickets required for Parkway or Patriot Park lights!
- 2026–27 Season (anticipated):
- November 5, 2026 – February 15, 2027
- Same hours and price, following city tradition (official dates will post by August 2026).
Kickoff Party:
- Patriot Park, November 6, 2025, from 3:00 p.m.
- Live music, food trucks, and the ceremonial “flipping of the switch” – plus fireworks to start the season right.
The Scale:
- More than 12 million energy-efficient LED bulbs span across the Parkway, Patriot Park, The Island, and Old Mill Square.
- Holiday lights stretch from the city entrance (near Traffic Light #0) through downtown and on to the Sevierville border.
- The display is so bright it can be seen from the Gatlinburg Bypass overlook!
Walk-Thru Christmas Light Experiences
Once you’ve wandered through the glowing arches and riverside displays, it’s time to hop in the car and discover Pigeon Forge’s spectacular drive-thru Christmas lights tours—where the entire town becomes your holiday canvas
Wonders of Light Walking Trail (Patriot Park)
Launched in 2022 and expanded for 2025–26, the Wonders of Light Trail at Patriot Park is a family favorite. Here, you’ll wander along the Little Pigeon River, passing over 20 dazzling displays – from illuminated woodland animals to massive tunnels of animated butterflies and a larger-than-life Smoky Mountain black bear.
What to Expect:
- Over 1 million LED lights create glowing arches, dancing trees, and interactive features for children.
- Local food trucks and cocoa stands are parked along the trail, offering everything from hot cider and cookies to festive popcorn.
- Enjoy live acoustic music or holiday carolers most weekend evenings from late November through New Year’s Eve.
- Accessibility: Wide, paved walkways make the entire route stroller- and wheelchair-friendly.
Photo Tip: The “critter zone” at the riverfront is perfect for a family selfie, and the 15-foot ornament archway is a must for Instagram!
The Island’s Dancing Fountain & Walk-Thru Tree
The Island is an entertainment and shopping complex in the heart of Pigeon Forge, and during Winterfest, it transforms into a mesmerizing holiday hub.
Highlights:
- The 40-foot walk-thru Christmas tree, decked with thousands of animated lights, is a showstopper – step inside for magical family photos.
- The Island’s famous Dancing Fountain puts on free, synchronized shows every night at 6, 7, 8, and 9 p.m., set to classic holiday songs and pop favorites.
- Kids can ride the Great Smoky Mountain Wheel for panoramic views of the twinkling cityscape, while adults browse boutiques and warm up with local hot chocolate or spiced cider.
Pro Tip: Arrive before sunset for easy parking. Enjoy dinner at Paula Deen’s or Margaritaville, then stroll the lights as darkness falls.
Dollywood’s Smoky Mountain Christmas
Dollywood is renowned for its Smoky Mountain Christmas festival, running mid-November through early January. This is a ticketed experience, but for holiday light lovers, it’s worth every penny.
What’s Unique:
- Over 6 million bulbs blanket the park’s themed villages – like Glacier Ridge, Wildwood Grove, and Timber Canyon – each with their own color palette and signature displays.
- The “Northern Lights” walkthrough in Glacier Ridge features a canopy of shifting blues, purples, and sparkling stars.
- Every evening, a drone or fireworks show illuminates the night sky, set to festive music.
- Carolers and costumed performers stroll through the park, offering live holiday entertainment around every corner.
Insider Tip: Plan your Dollywood visit on a weekday evening for lighter crowds and the best photos of the twinkling lights.
Old Mill Historic Square
Old Mill Square glows with timeless, vintage charm. Stroll through the historic district to see warm white lights draped across bridges, trees, and the iconic Old Mill itself.
- Local shops stay open late on weekends, perfect for last-minute gifts or stocking stuffers.
- Sample cinnamon bread or fudge, warm your hands at a fire pit, and watch artisans craft pottery or candies by hand.
- The riverside café offers cozy seating for a mid-tour snack.
Photo Spot: The bridge over the Little Pigeon River is an ideal location for group shots with a backdrop of gently twinkling lights and reflections on the water.
Drive-Thru Christmas Lights Tours
Pigeon Forge Holiday Lights Driving Tour
The classic drive-thru option begins at Traffic Light #0 (near the city entrance). Roll down your windows, set your radio to a holiday playlist, and cruise along a five-mile route illuminated by over 25 themed lighting zones.
Highlights Along the Parkway:
- Snowflake Lane: Dazzling blue and white overhead arches.
- Winter’s Waterfall: Animated icicles cascading from trees.
- 12 Days of Christmas: Each day comes alive with whimsical, oversized characters.
- Patriotic Eagle: A tribute to America with a red, white, and blue spread near Patriot Park.
Drive at your own pace – stop at designated lay-bys for photos, but stay mindful of other cars. For the least traffic, drive after 8 p.m. on weeknights.
Shadrack’s Christmas Wonderland @ Soaky Mountain
For a fully immersive, music-synced experience, Shadrack’s Christmas Wonderland at Soaky Mountain Waterpark is a must-see. From November 15, 2025, through January 5, 2026, enjoy:
- 300-foot RGB “mega-trees”, tunnels, and digital animations all timed to classic and contemporary holiday tunes on your car radio.
- Santa’s Snowy Mountain village with crafts, snacks, and visits from Santa himself through December 30.
- Timed-entry tickets are recommended for Friday and Saturday nights due to popularity.
Pro Tip: Arrive right at opening or late evening to skip lines. The entire loop takes 20–30 minutes if you drive straight through – but plan to linger!
Smoky Mountain Speedway Lights
While smaller and sometimes only open select weekends, the Speedway’s drive-thru loop is a family favorite for locals. It’s shorter but features a fun FM-radio soundtrack and playful displays, often themed around racing or local wildlife.
- Check the city’s event page for 2025–26 dates and operating nights.
- Admission is usually by donation, making it a budget-friendly add-on.
Gatlinburg Bypass Overlook
Just outside Pigeon Forge, the Gatlinburg Bypass Overlook offers the best “big picture” view of the Smoky Mountain Christmas lights below. Pull off safely, step out, and see the shimmering glow stretching from Sevierville through Pigeon Forge and all the way to Gatlinburg.
Local Tip: Bring a thermos of cocoa, a camera with night settings, and enjoy a peaceful moment away from the crowds.
DIY Google Map Route Planner
Make the most of your night out with a custom DIY route planner:
- Open Google Maps and create a new list for “Pigeon Forge Christmas Lights 2025.”
- Add pins for:
- Wonders of Light Walking Trail (Patriot Park, 186 Old Mill Ave)
- The Island in Pigeon Forge (131 The Island Dr)
- Dollywood’s Main Entrance (2700 Dollywood Parks Blvd)
- Old Mill Square (175 Old Mill Ave)
- Shadrack’s @ Soaky Mountain (175 Gists Creek Rd, Sevierville)
- Smoky Mountain Speedway (2874 Parkway)
- Gatlinburg Bypass Overlook
- Use color codes:
- 🔴 Drive-Thru
- 🟢 Walk-Thru
- 🔵 Scenic Overlook
- Download your map for offline use (cell signal can be spotty in the Smokies).
- Plan your sequence: Start at Patriot Park or The Island, then cruise the Parkway, and add bonus stops based on your group’s mood and time.
Festival Add-Ons & Special Events
Wonders of Light Christmas Village
Nestled at the entrance to the Walking Trail in Patriot Park, this Christmas Village runs select weekends in November and December. Explore more than 35 artisan booths selling handcrafted ornaments, art, snacks, and hot beverages.
- Santa visits, live music, and photo booths are part of the fun.
- Most vendors accept credit cards, but bring cash for smaller purchases or games.
Pigeon Forge Trolley “See the Lights” Tour
Let someone else do the driving! The city’s trolley departs from Patriot Park at 6:30, 7:45, and 9:00 p.m. on select nights. For $6, you’ll enjoy a guided, open-air tour (heated on chilly nights) with stories about the history, design, and quirky surprises behind each display.
Sevierville Courthouse 3D Show
Just north of Pigeon Forge, Sevierville’s historic courthouse comes alive nightly with animated 3D projections – snowflakes, reindeer, and holiday messages. Shows run on the hour from dusk to 10 p.m., completely free.
Smoky Mountain Souvenirs & Warm-Up Spots
No Winterfest outing is complete without a snack or keepsake:
- Old Mill Café: Home of the warmest cinnamon bread in town, plus apple cider, coffee, and seasonal pies.
- Incredible Christmas Place: Tennessee’s largest Christmas store, open until 10 p.m. during Winterfest. Shop for collectible ornaments, hand-painted decor, and gifts to remember your trip.
- Patriot Park: Holiday food trucks and hot cocoa stands line the walkway on festival nights.
Pro Tip: Gift a locally made ornament to your kids each year – before you know it, your tree will be filled with Smoky Mountain memories!
Local Tips for the Best Winter Lights Experience
With these insider strategies, you’re perfectly prepped for a seamless Winterfest adventure. Now all that’s left is to gather your favorite people, cue up your holiday playlist, and set out for a night of glowing memories in the Smokies.
- Timing is everything:
- Weeknights after 7:30 p.m. are best for low traffic and easier parking.
- Saturday evenings are lively and festive but can be slow-moving in popular areas.
- Parking pointers:
- Patriot Park, The Island, and Old Mill offer free lots (first come, first served).
- If parking at Dollywood, plan for a 10–15 minute walk to the park entrance or use the tram.
- Dress for success:
- Bundle up – mountain nights are chilly, especially along the river and open parking lots.
- Bring gloves and hats for everyone, and stash a blanket in your car for drive-thru tours.
- Accessibility:
- All major walk-thru trails are stroller and wheelchair accessible.
- Trolley tours and drive-thru experiences are ideal for guests who prefer to stay cozy in their seats.
- For pet lovers:
- Leashed, well-behaved dogs are welcome at many outdoor walk-thru events. Double-check each event’s policy before bringing Fido.
- Get the shot:
- Nighttime photos can be tricky – use a phone with Night Mode or bring a small tripod.
- The best family photo ops are at the Wonders of Light critter tunnel, inside The Island’s tree, and on the Old Mill bridge.
Smoky Mountain Memories Await
When the Parkway flickers to life and music drifts from car windows and riverside trails, you’ll feel the magic that keeps families, couples, and friends coming back to Pigeon Forge every winter. Whether you’re marveling at a million twinkling LEDs on foot or soaking up the sparkle from behind your windshield, this is one tradition that glows brighter every year.
Mark your calendars this year, pack your camera and some cocoa, and start your own Smoky Mountain holiday story – because Pigeon Forge Christmas Lights are ready to dazzle you and yours.
Get in touch with us to plan a trip!
FAQs
The Winterfest lights in Pigeon Forge shine from early November through mid-February.
More than 12 million twinkling lights illuminate Pigeon Forge during Winterfest.
Yes, you can take a Winterfest Driving Tour of Lights along the Pigeon Forge Parkway, and there’s also a Redneck Comedy Bus Christmas Lights Tour.
Dollywood’s Smoky Mountain Christmas features over six million twinkling lights throughout the park, creating a winter wonderland.
Yes, the “Christmas Never Ends Drive-Thru Light Show” is available from November 1st to February 15th.
