Events

Fun Ways to Celebrate Christmas 2019 in the Smokies

December 4, 2019 By Summer Orr

Since it’s the most “wonderful time of the year” we’re bringing you some wonderful ways to have fun in the Smoky Mountains this Christmas! These activities are guaranteed to get you in a holly, jolly good mood!

SEE THE LIGHTS

It wouldn’t be Christmas time without Christmas lights! One of the best places to go see them is at Dollywood’s Smoky Mountain Christmas Festival which runs from November 9 – January 4. Guests can explore the park and see more than four million holiday lights! Just bring a jacket and be sure to bundle up!

Maybe the cold isn’t your thing? That’s okay! You can still see the lights thanks to Shadrack’s Christmas Wonderland. This is a drive-through Christmas light display that’s been synchronized to music for a truly mesmerizing show of color and sound. So load up the car and plan your trip! This Christmas Wonderland runs from November 15 – January 5.

TAKE IN THE SHOWS

These Christmas-themed shows will help you get into the spirit of the season! If you’re looking for food and fun, try one of these family-friendly dinner shows! We recommend Christmas at Dolly Parton’s Stampede or the Hatfield & McCoy Christmas Dinner Disaster for good food and good laughs.

Or if that’s not your cup of tea, there’s always Christmas at the Smoky Mountain Opry! At this show you can expect to see flying sugar plum fairies, an appearance from Jolly ol’ Saint Nick, and the area’s largest living nativity.

ENJOY THE SNOW

If it doesn’t feel like Christmas without snow, then visiting Ober Gatlinburg will make you oh-so-happy! They offer skiing, snowboarding, snow tubing, and ice skating! Ski and snowboard season starts in early-mid December and can last into March. If snow tubing is more your thing, then you’re in luck! It’s available starting the Saturday before Thanksgiving and goes through March 31.

With so many fun activities, you’re sure to find something for everyone. So start planning your trip to the Smokies today to enjoy this Christmas season!

Links:

Dollywood: https://www.dollywood.com/themepark/Festivals/Smoky-Mountain-Christmas

Shadrack’s: http://shadrackchristmas.com/sevierville

Stampede: https://dpstampede.com/pigeon-forge/christmas-show

Hatfield & McCoy: https://hatfieldmccoydinnerfeud.com/hatfields-mccoys-christmas-dinner-show/

Christmas at the Smoky Mountain Opry: https://smokymtnopry.com/

Ober Gatlinburg: https://obergatlinburg.com/winter/

Fall Fun in the Smoky Mountains! 2019 dates

September 30, 2019 By Summer Orr

Welcome to October in the Smoky Mountains! A beautiful time of changing colors, scarecrows and pumpkins, family festivals, and fun for all ages! Here are a few of our favorite events happening in the Smoky Mountain area this month.

October 1,2,4,5,6, Sevierville. “Love Loud” Corn Maze & Hayride. If you are visiting early this month, this is a FREE event hosted by FBC, Sevierville. Visit the website for hours and enjoy quality family fun to kick off the month!
October 4-6, Sevierville. Robert A. Tino’s Smoky Mountain Homecoming. One of our favorite local artists puts on a fabulous fall event at his gallery. There are plenty of kid-friendly activities here, and adults will love perusing the vendors, hearing the bluegrass, and remembering a simpler time.
October 10-27, Gatlinburg. Gatlinburg Craftsmen’s Fair. Showcasing over 180 craftspeople from around the US, you’re sure to find a unique souvenir from your trip to the mountains!
October 18-20, Wears Valley. Wears Valley Fall Fest. I can only remember how good the kettle corn is! With an abundance of festival foods, local color, art booths, and family activities, this is another one you’re sure to love! Arrive early to avoid the heaviest traffic.
Now thru October 31. Sevierville. Kyker Farms Corn Maze. Whether you’re looking for an innocent night of fun or a terrifying maze of zombies, you’ll have a good time on this family farm!
Now thru November 2, Pigeon Forge. Dollywood’s Harvest Festival & Great Pumpkin LumiNights. Enjoy Southern Gospel music concerts and pumpkin displays during the day, then be delighted with thousands of illuminated pumpkins after sundown. This event stays packed! Plan several hours and bring your patience as your family enjoys all the spooky fun of Dollywood’s LumiNights!
Now thru November 2, Gatlinburg. Anakeesta’s Hallow Mountain. Visit during the daytime for autumn fun for all ages, but beware- on select nights, Anakeesta is ready to add some fright to your night!
October 31, Pigeon Forge. Halloween at The Island. Enjoy a safe night of trick-or-treating at this Free event at The Island. Bonus for those in costume: Purchase a 48-hour unlimited ride pass for only $5!

Happy Fall, Y’all!

December 2018: Christmas Fun in the Smokies!

November 28, 2018 By Summer Orr

Hello Friends!
We hope you are planning a Winterfest trip to the Smoky Mountains. With dazzling light displays throughout the towns, Christmas ribbons around the lamp posts, and some rendition of “Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree” playing in every store, it almost feels like we’re living in a snow globe this month- we’ve even enjoyed a few flurries already! But with so much to see and do, it can be hard to narrow down the best shows and activities to fit in your schedule- not to mention something that all ages will enjoy together! We’ve narrowed down 10 of our favorite Christmas activities that have proven to fill every heart with cheer- even hearts that are two sizes too small! 😀
If you are planning a visit to Hidden Mountain this month, here are a few of our favorite things:

Dollywood’s Smoky Mountain Christmas– Until January 5, enjoy a wonderland of Christmas decorations, shows, and cheer at Dolly Parton’s theme park. Don’t miss “Glacier Ridge,” a new expansion of Christmas fun for the family! Dollywood is open every day in December, except Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. The park opens at 11 AM or 2 PM, depending on the day, and closes at 9 PM. To find business hours for the day of your visit, click here.
Christmas at The Island– With shopping, dining, dancing fountains, and rides, The Island is a wonderful place to soak up some Christmas cheer. From fried chicken and butter cake at Paula Deen’s to the oldest family-owned five and dime in the country, Emery’s 5 & 10, there’s a good time around every corner at The Island. Find business hours here.
The Smoky Mountain Opry– If this joyful show doesn’t delight your Christmas spirit, you may find yourself in danger of being labeled a Grinch. This Christmas variety show is headlined by Chris Blue, season 12 winner of The Voice, and features most genres of Christmas hits plus an appearance by the jolly old elf himself- Santa! Find showtimes and tickets here.
Shadrack’s Christmas Wonderland– If getting out of the car on a cold night just isn’t your thing, then crank up the heat, swing through Krispy Kreme, and head out to Shadrack’s Christmas Wonderland at the Smokies Stadium. Tune your radio to their station and drive through acres of enchanting Christmas lights. Cars or Passenger Vans with 8 passengers or less are $25. Be prepared to experience long car lines on the weekends or visit during the less crowded Monday-Thursday dates. For hours and additional activities available, visit here.
Gatlinburg Trolley Ride of Lights– For guests who want the full Winterfest experience without having to navigate the mountain traffic, hop on this Trolley ride and enjoy a heated tour of Gatlinburg. You won’t miss a Christmas light and you may even meet some new friends! We recommend purchasing tickets in advance here.
Fantasy of Lights Christmas Parade– December 7 only! Enjoy the 43rd annual Christmas tradition as it floats through downtown Gatlinburg with enough Christmas cheer to power Santa’s sleigh! Did you know Blake Shelton is opening a new business in Gatlinburg? Ole Red’s is sponsoring the Gatlinburg Christmas Parade this year! Will Blake be there? I’m not sure. Will you be there? Find out when to arrive and where to park here.
Christmas at Dolly Parton’s Stampede– Save your calories because you’ll enjoy a hearty meal while watching this riveting Christmas show with live horseback-riding feats and family friendly entertainment! Featuring a live nativity with sheep, goats, donkeys, & camels, Dolly Parton’s Stampede reminds us of the true meaning of Christmas. Find show times and tickets here.
Hatfield & McCoy’s Christmas Disaster– Because not every family likes spending time together. ha! But you can still have fun together while enjoying two other families feud it out this holiday season while you sit back and enjoy your dinner. Find showtimes and tickets here.
The Comedy Barn Christmas– While this is #9 on this list, it was my first show of the season. If you love to laugh- especially with kiddos- this is a fantastic show! Find tickets here.
Christmas Eve Candlelight Communion– If you’re in town for Christmas, we invite you to visit First Baptist Church in Sevierville on Christmas Eve as we honor and celebrate the gift of Christ Jesus.

Merry Christmas, friends!

Smoky Mountain Happenings- November 2018

November 1, 2018 By Summer Orr

I know we don’t know each other well, but I’m still comfortable telling you that November is my favorite month of the year! Thanksgiving is my favorite holiday. Fall is my favorite season. Turkeys aren’t my favorite animal, but my mama’s cornbread stuffing is my favorite food during this most wonderful time of the year. Wait what were we talking about?

Oh yes- November in the Smokies! So much goodness. But what’s in it for you, our guests?

Shoulder season! Especially during the first weeks leading up to Thanksgiving, you may find that it’s easier to get into restaurants and shows! Plus, shoulder season in the Smokies brings FALL-ing rates on most remaining Hidden Mountain cabins, cottages, and villas until November 15. (Call Front Desk for details 865-453-9850)
The local celebration called Winterfest officially kicks off this month. Winterfest spans November, December, and January. The 3 cities of Sevierville, Pigeon Forge, and Gatlinburg are festively lit so even a drive through town becomes an adventure for the whole family! And if you don’t feel like driving, enjoy a trolley tour of lights through Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg!
It’s November 1- are you already pulling out your Christmas decorations? You may enjoy adding a few Christmas shows to your plans- several begin this weekend! Christmas spirit arrives early in the Smokies!
Quality time with loved ones. Whether you’re here for the autumn scenery, the dazzling lights, the cozy fireplaces or just to get a head start on Christmas shopping, everyone can find something to be thankful for in November in the Smokies!

Calendar:

Opening November 1, 2018
Christmas at the Smoky Mountain Opry featuring live performances by The Voice winner Chris Blue!
(p.s. This is the last season for The Smoky Mountain Opry. The theater is transforming to host Pirate’s Revenge Dinner Show in 2019)

Opening November 1, 2018
Hatfield & McCoy Christmas Disaster Dinner Show

Opening November 1, 2018
Christmas at Dolly Parton’s Stampede

November 7, 2018
Gatlinburg Chili Cookoff , presented by Bush Beans

Opening November 9, 2018
Shadrack’s Christmas Wonderland, a drive-through display of lights set to music!

Opening November 10, 2018
Dollywood’s Smoky Mountain Christmas

Opening November 19, 2018
Comedy Barn Christmas

November 22, 2018
Titanic Museum’s Thanksgiving Day Fireworks Celebration
(PS- You can enjoy a beautiful view from Old Homeplace and the villas at Hidden Mountain East!)

November 22- 25, 2018
Great Smoky Thanksgiving Arts & Crafts Show

November 23, 2018
Black Friday at Tanger Outlets

We hope to see you at some of these Smoky Mountain attractions, shows, and events!

We are thankful for you!

Favorite Fall Festivals in the Smokies 2018

September 28, 2018 By Summer Orr

Hey y’all!

I hope this post finds you enjoying a wonderful fall season! There is so much good stuff happening in the Smoky Mountains this time of year! And I love taking a moment to remember that the autumn rainbow starting to appear outside our window, the festivals, the thousands of guests- none of it would be happening if not for God’s majestic and awe-inspiring creation surrounding us. We hope you have planned a trip to visit this fall, and we hope you find a few events and activities to enjoy while you’re here!

Festivals, in order by date:

September 28- November 3
Dollywood’s Great Pumpkin LumiNights
Dollywood is a family favorite, and it’s a fun way for kids to enjoy a spooky (not scary) October in the Smokies. They’ve doubled the size of the festival this year!

October 1,2,3,5
Love Loud Corn Maze
You don’t hear the word “FREE”very often, but this corn maze is FREE! There’s even a hay maze for the youngest visitors. Thank you FBC, Sevierville!

October 4-21
Gatlinburg Craftsmen’s Fair
Enjoy crafters from across the US and get a head start on your Christmas shopping at this 43rd annual fair!

October 5,6,7
Robert A. Tino’s Smoky Mountain Homecoming
Enjoy Appalachian fun just outside the farmhouse gallery door of local artist Robert A. Tino. Kids activities on Saturday and Sunday include a pick-and-paint pumpkin patch, old fashioned games, mule-pulled wagon rides and more. With plenty of mountain music, southern foods, and craft vendors, this is a great way to spend a weekend in the Smokies!

October 19-21
Wears Valley Fall Fest
From fair food to art vendors to a petting zoo and face painting, this festival packs it all into a wonderful weekend in the Valley. This festival is about 1/2 way between Pigeon Forge and Townsend. I recommend arriving early or there is a good chance you’ll be in traffic on this 2-lane road. The good news is you’ll be in the mountains and the kettle corn is amazing!

Favorite Autumn Activities, in no particular order:

Cades Cove Ranger-Led Evening Hayrides
Call for details and for the schedule 865-448-9009.
These are loaded on a first come, first served basis, so plan to arrive early. The stables are about an hour from Hidden Mountain, and may be a bit longer depending on traffic. Pack a jacket, blankets, and maybe even a snack for the 1.5-2 hour journey around the cove.
Daytime rides are offered as well, but I like the evening visit. Dusk is a good time for wildlife to be out and about also!

Picnic in the Park
Pack a basket or stop by Publix for a sandwich, chips, and drink, and enjoy a picnic surrounded by autumn’s beauty!
Some of my favorite picnic areas are Chimneys Picnic Area, Metcalf Bottoms, and Greenbrier, but you can see the full list at the link above.
Metcalf Bottoms is the closest to Hidden Mountain. Many picnic sites are on the river, so pack some water shoes, towels, maybe a change of clothes in case you find a slick rock and fall in…)

Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail
Sometimes you just want to enjoy the scenery from your car, and that’s okay, too! Spend some time on this nature trail for cars, and you’ll get to experience the views of a hike without all the footwork. 😉

Horseback Riding at Waldens Creek Stables
Located about 10 minutes from Hidden Mountain West, this family-owned stable company has a great selection of guided horseback rides. Meander up and down mountain trails, splash through creeks, enjoy some local lore, and imagine a time when horseback riding was a way of life for everyone.

Autumn Shopping Favorites:

Apple Barn & Cider Mill
Of course! But not just because we consider them neighbors. It’s apple season in the Smokies, y’all! Enjoy fresh cider, warm fried pies, and plenty of apple and autumn decor, gifts, and more! In addition to the Barn & Cider Mill, visit the Candy Shop, Creamery, Winery, Christmas Shop and Applewood Farmhouse Restaurants!

Tanger Outlets at Five Oaks
This is another obvious shopping choice, but for the month of October, if you visit the website or the mall office, you can buy a PINK card for $10 and save 25% off one item at a large selection of shops! It’s a great deal supporting Breast Cancer Research Foundation.

Stages West, Pigeon Forge
If all that time in the saddle- or just in the mountains- connected you with your inner cowgirl or cowboy, mosey on over to Stages West. Not only is the store itself a sight to see, but they have a tremendous selection of boots, hats, and clothing for all ages!

Well this should fill up a weekend or two, so I’ll stop. We are so blessed to be able to welcome guests to share in this spectacular season in the Great Smoky Mountains! We hope you find as much delight, warmth, and family fun in this season as we do! Now go make some memories!

Summer

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