By admin 
Introduction: Christmas Things to Do in Pigeon Forge
Pigeon Forge lights up with holiday magic during Christmas. Visitors often look for Christmas things to do in Pigeon Forge to celebrate joyfully. From enchanting light displays to exciting holiday shows, this town creates unforgettable memories for families, couples, and solo travelers alike. Nestled in the Smoky Mountains, Pigeon Forge offers endless holiday cheer.
While many towns offer Christmas events, this mountain destination goes all out during the festive season. You’ll enjoy vibrant parades, scenic drives, live performances, and delicious seasonal treats. Moreover, the charming atmosphere adds warmth even on the coldest days.
Whether you visit for the day or stay the week, you’ll find joy everywhere. Let’s explore the best attractions and holiday events to make your trip magical.
1. Visit Dollywood’s Smoky Mountain Christmas Festival
Dollywood hosts one of the most spectacular holiday festivals in the region. This event showcases over six million dazzling lights throughout the park. Music fills the air, and cheerful decor sets a festive tone in every corner.
Every evening, Dollywood transforms into a winter wonderland. Enjoy classic shows like “Christmas in the Smokies” or explore Glacier Ridge’s glowing light tunnels. Furthermore, the seasonal rides give visitors thrilling memories under a canopy of lights.
Don’t forget to grab hot cocoa and warm cinnamon bread. These holiday treats make the experience even sweeter. Kids can meet Santa Claus and write their Christmas wishes at Santa’s Village.
2. Drive Through Shadrack’s Christmas Wonderland
Shadrack’s Christmas Wonderland offers a drive-through light experience like no other. Set at Smokies Stadium, this attraction features synchronized lights and music. You’ll drive slowly through animated displays while holiday tunes play through your car’s radio.
Although designed for all ages, kids especially love the dancing lights and animated snowmen. The entire route lasts about 20 minutes, depending on traffic. Remember to visit early, as weekends can get crowded quickly.
Since the show uses millions of LED lights, you’ll see unique themes and colorful characters along the path. Make it a tradition every holiday season with your loved ones.
3. Enjoy the Christmas Show at the Comedy Barn
The Comedy Barn hosts a family-friendly Christmas show packed with laughter and surprises. Featuring live animals, talented musicians, and skilled performers, the show combines humor and holiday spirit.
Unlike other theaters, this show invites crowd interaction. That makes each performance feel personal and exciting. Besides comedy, you’ll hear classic carols and enjoy fun skits that highlight the joy of Christmas.
Parents appreciate that the jokes remain clean and appropriate. Kids laugh along without missing a beat. Bring your whole family and enjoy two hours of pure Christmas entertainment.
4. Walk Through the Winterfest Wonders of Light Trail
Pigeon Forge introduced the Winterfest Wonders of Light Walking Trail as a new attraction. This immersive trail stretches over a mile and features over twenty vibrant displays.
Unlike driving tours, the walking trail lets you slow down and enjoy each light display. You can take selfies, admire the glowing creatures, and enjoy hot beverages from nearby vendors.
This trail runs through the Riverwalk Greenway and continues into Patriot Park. The city places benches throughout the route, offering resting spots for tired feet.
5. Ride the Great Smoky Mountain Wheel at Night
The Great Smoky Mountain Wheel offers panoramic views of Pigeon Forge’s glittering Christmas landscape. This 200-foot-tall observation wheel sits at The Island, a popular entertainment complex.
Each gondola is climate-controlled, so you stay warm while enjoying aerial views. At night, thousands of Christmas lights glow across the town, creating a stunning display beneath your feet.
Many visitors pair their ride with dinner at nearby restaurants or enjoy a walk through the Island’s holiday decorations. The fountains dance to holiday music, adding to the festive experience.
6. Attend a Holiday Show at Hatfield & McCoy Christmas Disaster Dinner Feud
This dinner show delivers food and entertainment in equal measure. The Hatfield & McCoy Christmas Disaster Show adds a holiday twist to the famous family feud.
You’ll enjoy a Southern-style feast while the cast entertains with singing, dancing, and slapstick humor. The Christmas edition brings new scenes, colorful costumes, and lots of seasonal cheer.
Guests cheer, laugh, and clap as chaos unfolds on stage. You won’t leave hungry, and you’ll likely leave with sore cheeks from smiling so much.
7. Explore The Incredible Christmas Place
The Incredible Christmas Place is the South’s largest Christmas store and a must-visit spot. This Bavarian-style shopping village offers everything from ornaments to tree toppers.
Even if you don’t plan to shop, the store alone provides hours of holiday joy. Life-sized nutcrackers greet visitors, and carolers sometimes sing outside on weekends.
Kids love the animated window displays. Meanwhile, adults can sip holiday coffee blends or customize Christmas decor with their names.
Moreover, the location features a year-round Christmas-themed hotel just across the street. Staying there adds extra magic to your holiday adventure.
8. Visit Old Mill Square for Holiday Shopping and Treats
Old Mill Square combines holiday shopping with local charm. This historic area glows with festive lights and garlands during December.
You’ll find handmade pottery, artisan crafts, and local food products perfect for gifting. The Old Mill Creamery offers seasonal ice cream flavors, and the Candy Kitchen tempts visitors with homemade fudge.
Dine at the Old Mill Restaurant, where you’ll enjoy comfort food in a cozy holiday setting. Walk along the nearby Little Pigeon River for a peaceful winter stroll after shopping.
9. See the Festival of Trees in Gatlinburg
Though located in nearby Gatlinburg, the Festival of Trees deserves mention. This charitable event features dozens of decorated trees, each uniquely themed.
Proceeds benefit local nonprofits, adding goodwill to your visit. Visitors stroll through the tree displays, buy handmade crafts, and meet Santa Claus.
If you’re traveling from Pigeon Forge, the scenic drive between towns adds to the fun. Gatlinburg itself also sparkles with Christmas magic and festive decorations.
10. Experience Snow at Pigeon Forge Snow
Pigeon Forge Snow offers indoor snow tubing and snow play all year long. However, it feels extra special during the holidays.
Kids and adults ride down snow-covered hills or build snowmen in the play area. Since the facility uses real snow, the experience feels authentic without freezing temperatures.
Christmas lights decorate the space, and holiday music fills the air. After your snowy fun, relax with a warm drink and enjoy watching others tube down the hills.
11. Take a Scenic Winter Drive Through the Smokies
Although Christmas things to do in Pigeon Forge mostly happen in town, many visitors also enjoy scenic winter drives.
Cades Cove and Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail remain popular even in colder months. With bare trees, you’ll see hidden cabins, wildlife, and mountain vistas more clearly.
Pack hot drinks and snacks for the road. Along the way, take photos of snow-dusted landscapes and rustic holiday wreaths on old wooden fences.
12. Attend the Christmas Parade in Sevierville
Each December, nearby Sevierville hosts a spectacular Christmas parade filled with lights, floats, and music. Families line the streets to watch performers and cheer for Santa.
You’ll see marching bands, dancers, fire trucks, and costumed characters. Children catch candy tossed by smiling participants while parents enjoy the small-town charm.
Though technically outside Pigeon Forge, the short drive makes it an easy addition to your holiday itinerary. Arrive early to grab good seats along the parade route.
13. Warm Up with Hot Chocolate and Local Treats
You’ll find rich hot chocolate nearly everywhere in Pigeon Forge during December. Cafes, bakeries, and diners all offer their take on this holiday favorite.
Try a peppermint version at The Old Mill Creamery or a spiced option at Espresso Yourself. Pair your drink with warm gingerbread cookies or homemade pie.
Many eateries decorate festively, creating a cozy atmosphere perfect for cold evenings. Take time to sit down, warm up, and savor the tastes of the season.
14. Capture Holiday Memories at Santa’s Haus
Santa’s Haus offers photo opportunities with Santa in a beautifully decorated cabin. Located in The Island, it delights children and adults alike.
You’ll find professional photographers, festive backdrops, and even elves helping Santa greet each visitor. The atmosphere feels welcoming, warm, and magical.
Parents love taking home keepsake photos to remember their holiday visit. Children can whisper gift requests and receive candy canes after each photo session.
15. Watch the Snowfall at Anakeesta in Nearby Gatlinburg
Anakeesta, a mountaintop park in Gatlinburg, becomes a snowy retreat during winter months. You’ll ride a scenic gondola to reach the summit.
There, Christmas lights twinkle across the trees, and fire pits invite guests to roast marshmallows. Kids can visit a themed village while adults shop or sip mulled cider.
Though not inside Pigeon Forge, this nearby attraction provides stunning views and peaceful surroundings. Snowfall at the summit creates picture-perfect holiday moments.
Conclusion: Celebrate Christmas the Smoky Mountain Way
Pigeon Forge knows how to deliver unforgettable holiday experiences. From magical light displays to family-friendly shows, this town never runs out of Christmas cheer. Although the options seem endless, each activity offers something unique and heartwarming.
So pack your scarves, bring your camera, and head to the mountains this December. The Christmas things to do in Pigeon Forge will fill your days with joy, warmth, and lasting memories.
Enjoy every twinkling light, sweet treat, and jolly laugh during your mountain holiday adventure.