As you start to plan your 2023 vacations, be sure to check out the schedule for special events in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge.
Perhaps you aren't interested in any of these events... No worries, you might want to know so that you can plan around the larger events like Rod Run.
Or perhaps you are interested in activities like hiking, zip lining, white-water rafting or the synchronous firefly natural event. Stay tuned for more info on those activities or contact me with any questions.
Gatlinburg:
Now through January 31st: Lights Over Gatlinburg at SkyLift Park
Running daily, the SkyLift Park will be lit up at night with over 40,000 lights including a 300-foot tunnel of lights on the SkyBridge, a 30-foot Christmas tree structure with lights animated to music and much more.
Now through February 28th: Gatlinburg Winter Magic
For more than 30 years, Gatlinburg has celebrated Winterfest with millions of twinkling lights on festive holiday displays throughout the city. Soak up the spirit of the season from the comfort of your own vehicle and take a memorable journey on the exciting Gatlinburg Winter Magic Lights Tour.
Now through March 3rd: Astra Lumina at Anakeesta
Experience Anakeesta’s brand-new attraction Astra Lumina for the very first time in the US! Set off across mysterious observatory grounds to discover a celestial pathway of lustrous light, cosmic visions, and astral song. Immerse yourself in illuminating encounters and connect with the stars before they return to the sky above.
April 1st-2nd: Smoky Mountain Trout Tournament
The annual trout tournament is open to adults or children and equally challenging for both visitors and locals, with multiple categories to be contested in this largest trout tournament in the Smokies.
July 4th: 4th of July Midnight Parade and Fireworks
This annual 4th of July celebration carries over into the night on July 4th as an incredible fireworks display fills the sky over the Space Needle around 11:00 pm. Come experience for yourself why this event is designated as a Top 20 event by the Southeast Tourism Society.
July 7th-16th: Gatlinburg Craftsmen’s Fair
This unique show features over 180 booths of the finest craftspeople from all over the United States. Watch as they demonstrate their skill, answer questions and offer their unique art for sale indoors at the Gatlinburg Convention Center.
Pigeon Forge:
Now through February 19th: Pigeon Forge Winterfest
Winterfest continues in Pigeon Forge with the lighting of more than five million lights throughout town.
March 10th: Dollywood Opening Day
Dollywood opens for the 2023 season! Click the above link for the 2023 schedule of open dates and hours including special events such as Summer Festival and Smoky Mountain Christmas.
March 24th-26th: Chevelles in the Smokies & Corvette Expo
See some of the finest Chevelles and Corvettes in the entire country at these popular car shows in the Smokies!
April 13th-15th: Pigeon Forge Spring Rod Run
The Pigeon Forge Spring Rod Run is one of the biggest car shows in the country featuring thousands of classic cars and trucks.
May 18th-20th: Grand National F-100 Show
The world’s largest classic Ford Truck Show.
June 2nd-4th: Pontiacs in Pigeon Forge Classic Car Show
If you want to see the most gorgeous Pontiacs around, be sure to attend the 23rd Annual show of the Pontiacs at the Pigeon Forge Car Show & Swap Meet!
August 11th-12th: Smoky Mountain Fishing Expo
This new expo features seminars and NEW fishing gear.
August 24th-26th: Great Smoky Mountain Jeep Invasion
The Smoky Mountain Jeep Invasion is an Expo for all leading Jeep parts and their accessory vendors, including a Jeep Show where several trophies are awarded.
September 14th-16th: Pigeon Forge Fall Rod Run
The Pigeon Forge Fall Rod Run is one of the biggest car shows in the country featuring thousands of classic cars and trucks.