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Travel The Best Events and Festivals in Gatlinburg and the Smoky Mountains
Annual events and festivals at a glance
From Gatlinburg’s vibrant streets to the Smoky Mountains’ serene beauty, this region is alive with incredible events all year. Whether you’re craving the toe-tapping melodies of the Smoky Mountain Bluegrass Festival, the sparkle of the Winter Magic Lights, or the adrenaline of NASCAR race weekend, Gatlinburg offers something for every kind of traveler. With festivals celebrating music, food, art, seasonal traditions, exciting car shows, and family-friendly competitions, there’s no shortage of reasons to plan your trip. Ready to make unforgettable memories? Dive into the heart of Gatlinburg’s lively event calendar and start planning your visit today!
Annual Celebrations with Fireworks
Gatlinburg’s July 4th Parade & Fireworks
July 4, 2025
Downtown Gatlinburg, TN
Attendance: Over 100,000 spectators
Why Attend: Celebrate Independence Day with the nation’s only midnight parade followed by a spectacular fireworks display.
Who Should Go: Families, couples, and patriotic revelers.
Gatlinburg Winter Magic
Nov 8, 2024 – Feb 12, 2025
Downtown Gatlinburg, TN
Attendance: Thousands daily
Why Attend: Marvel at millions of sparkling lights, holiday displays, and special events that transform Gatlinburg into a winter wonderland.
Who Should Go: Families, couples, and holiday enthusiasts.
Hot air balloon festivals
Great Smoky Mountain Hot Air Balloon Festival
August 16, 2025
Townsend, TN
Attendance: Over 8,000 visitors
Why Attend: Soar above the Smokies in a hot air balloon or enjoy tethered rides. Features live music, craft vendors, and local food trucks.
Who Should Go: Adventure seekers, families, and photography enthusiasts.
Car shows
Chevys in the Smokies
March 13-15, 2025
Sevierville Convention Center, TN
Attendance: Hundreds of Chevy enthusiasts
Why Attend: This event showcases classic and custom Chevy vehicles, with contests, awards, and vendor displays. A paradise for vintage car enthusiasts.
Who Should Go: Car buffs, families, and fans of American classics.
Pigeon Forge Spring Rod Run
April 10-12, 2025
LeConte Center, Pigeon Forge, TN
Attendance: Over 20,000 visitors
Why Attend: This is the most popular car show in the Smokies, featuring classic hot rods, vendor expos, and a cash giveaway for attendees.
Who Should Go: Classic car collectors, gearheads, and event-goers.
Pigeon Forge Fall Rod Run
Sep 11-13, 2025
Quiet Valley Living Historical Farm, Stroudsburg
Attendance: Thousands of car guys and gals
Why Attend: This fall showcase offers a dazzling lineup of vintage cars, exciting competitions, and swap meets in a lively atmosphere.
Who Should Go: Car enthusiasts, families, and vintage auto admirers.
Food and beverage festivals
Gatlinburg Chili Cookoff
November 6, 2025
Downtown Gatlinburg, TN
Attendance: Over 10,000 visitors
Why Attend: Sample a variety of chili recipes from local chefs and enjoy live music, festive lights, and seasonal cheer.
Who Should Go: Foodies, families, and anyone looking for a flavorful evening.
Smoky Mountain Wine Fest
April 12-13, 2025
Arrowmont School of Arts and Crafts
Attendance: 3,000 wine enthusiasts
Why Attend: This festival offers a weekend of wine tasting from regional wineries, gourmet food pairings, and live music, all set against the scenic backdrop of the Smoky Mountains.
Who Should Go: Couples wanting a date night, wine aficionados, and food lovers.
Gatlinburg Beans and Cornbread Festival
May 22, 2025
Downtown Gatlinburg, TN
Attendance: Over 5,000 visitors
Why Attend: Celebrate Appalachian culinary traditions with a variety of beans and cornbread recipes, live bluegrass music, and family-friendly activities.
Who Should Go: Food enthusiasts, families, and those interested in regional cuisine.
Smoky Mountain Harvest Festival
SEP 25 – OCT 31, 2025
Various locations in Gatlinburg, TN
Attendance: Tens of thousands over the festival period
Why Attend: This festival features seasonal foods, local craft beers, and autumn-themed events, including pumpkin carving and hayrides, celebrating the rich flavors of fall. This festival provides a delightful opportunity to experience Gatlinburg’s diverse culinary scene and cultural heritage.
Who Should Go: Families, couples, and anyone looking to enjoy the tastes and sights of autumn.
Music workshops and festivals
Gatlinburg Songwriters Festival Workshop
February 28 – March 2, 2025
Gatlinburg, TN
Attendance: Hundreds of aspiring and established songwriters
Why Attend: Learn from award-winning songwriters, attend live performances, and network with music industry professionals in a scenic mountain setting. The festival celebrates the stories behind the songs with intimate performances and workshops.
Who Should Go: Aspiring songwriters, music lovers, and fans of storytelling through music.
Smoky Mountain Tunes & Tales
June 14 – August 3, 2025
Downtown Gatlinburg, TN
Attendance: Thousands over the summer
Why Attend: Stroll the streets of Gatlinburg and enjoy nightly performances by local musicians, storytellers, and artisans celebrating Appalachian culture. This free event creates an immersive experience of traditional mountain music and folklore.
Who Should Go: Families, history enthusiasts, and fans of live folk and bluegrass music.
Frequently asked questions
Looking for a fun event to go to in the Smokey Mountains when you’re in Gatlinburg? Let’s get some answers to questions you might have as you plan your visit!
Some of the top events include the Gatlinburg Songwriters Festival Workshop (Feb 28-Mar 2, 2025), Smoky Mountain Bluegrass Festival (Oct 11, 2025), and the Gatlinburg’s July 4th Parade Celebration. For car enthusiasts, the Pigeon Forge Fall Rod Run (Sep 11-13, 2025) is a must-see.
Yes, many events are free, such as the Smoky Mountain Tunes & Tales (Jun 14-Aug 3, 2025) in downtown Gatlinburg and the Gatlinburg Winter Magic Driving Tour of Lights (Nov 7, 2024-Feb 16, 2025). These events allow families to enjoy live entertainment or dazzling displays at no cost.
The Pocono Mountains Fireworks Display (July 4th) and Enchanted Christmas at Anakeesta (Nov 10-Dec 31, 2024) are fantastic for kids with dazzling lights, family activities, and plenty of holiday cheer. Additionally, the Blues, Brews, & BBQ Festival (July 19-20, 2025) has a relaxed, family-friendly feel.
Yes, some outdoor festivals like the Smoky Mountain Bluegrass Festival (Oct 11, 2025) and the Harvest Festival at Anakeesta (Oct 11-12, 2025) allow leashed pets. However, always check specific event policies before attending.
The National Quartet Convention (Sep 21-27, 2025) in Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg’s July 4th Parade Celebration draw tens of thousands of visitors. For car enthusiasts, the Pigeon Forge Spring Rod Run (Apr 10-12, 2025) is one of the most attended car shows in the region.
Most major events and venues, such as the National Quartet Convention at the LeConte Center, provide wheelchair accessibility and ADA-compliant facilities. Outdoor events like the Smoky Mountain Tunes & Tales feature flat, walkable streets. Contact event organizers for specific accommodations.