6 Things to Do in Gatlinburg at Christmas That Your Family Will Love

November 3, 2022

If you’re planning a holiday getaway to the mountains with your family, you’re in luck! There is so much to do in the Smokies during this time of year that you may have a hard time creating an itinerary. Don’t worry, we have a few suggestions on activities that you can’t miss while vacationing in this area. Here are 6 things to do in Gatlinburg at Christmas that your family will love:

1. See the Winterfest Lights

It’ll be pretty much impossible to miss the Winterfest lights, as you’ll find 5 million LED lights strung all throughout Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge. This twinkling display of lights signals the arrival of winter and the holiday season. You will see lit displays of black bears, country cabins, storybook characters and more! The whole family will love taking a drive through Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge to enjoy these gorgeous, one-of-a-kind displays. Taking some time to appreciate these lights is definitely one of the best things to do in Gatlinburg at Christmas!

2. Go Christmas Shopping

If you’re in the market for a few last-minute Christmas gifts, you’ve come to the right place! Downtown Gatlinburg is filled with great stores and shops that visitors of all ages love. Check out any of the diverse stores within The Village Shops, located just beside the Pancake Pantry. Here, you can pick up camping gear, candles, candies, Smoky Mountain attire and more. Both locals and visitors alike love shopping at The Village, and we guarantee you’ll find just what you’re looking for at any of these unique stores.

3. Enjoy Holiday Events

During the holiday season, some of Gatlinburg’s most popular attractions offer special Christmas events. Head to Anakeesta for its Enchanted Christmas Celebration ! You can enjoy holiday lights and decorations on the mountaintop, hot chocolate by the fire, Christmas shopping, and even breakfast with Santa. You can also visit Gatlinburg SkyLift Park for its Lights Over Gatlinburg event! The park, including the popular SkyBridge, is decorated with twinkling lights, and you’ll also have gorgeous views of downtown Gatlinburg.

4. Chow Down on a Christmas Meal

Gatlinburg is filled with amazing restaurants that are preparing fantastic holiday dishes just for you! You don’t have to be at home to enjoy a traditional Christmas dinner! The Smokies are known for the wonderful Appalachian cuisine that you can find all throughout the area. We suggest checking out The Park Grill, Cherokee Grill and Steakhouse, as well as Calhoun’s for some mouth watering foods that’ll have you coming back for seconds.

5. Snow Tube at Ober Mountain

A winter getaway wouldn’t be complete without a little bit of snow! Spending a day at Ober Mountain is one of the best things to do in Gatlinburg at Christmas! There are so many fun winter sports and activities that your whole group will love! If you’re looking for fun for all ages, we suggest you check out the snow tubing hill at Ober! Make sure you buy tickets in advance in order to secure your tube!

6. Stay in a Cozy Cabin

Now that you know a few of the best things to do in Gatlinburg at Christmas, you can begin planning your holiday trip to the Smoky Mountains! Looking for something a little different? Check out all of the other upcoming area events and decide which activities sound best to you! We look forward to seeing you!