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Where to See the Best Christmas Lights in Pigeon Forge

Christmas lights in Pigeon Forge
December 3, 2024

The holiday season is a magical time to be in Pigeon Forge, TN! You can see millions of twinkling lights on display throughout the town. There are several great places you can visit to see these festive light displays. If you want to be filled with Christmas cheer, make sure you check out these top places to see the best Christmas lights in Pigeon Forge:

1. Pigeon Forge Parkway

One of the easiest ways to see some of the best Christmas lights in Pigeon Forge is simply driving along the main Pigeon Forge Parkway. During Winterfest, the Parkway transforms into a magical winter wonderland with millions of twinkling lights on display. A great place to start your driving tour is at the north end of the Parkway, then make your way past light displays of Smoky Mountain critters, falling snowflakes, nursery rhymes, and even the 12 Days of Christmas!

2. Dollywood’s Smoky Mountain Christmas

Dollywood Christmas sign

Another one of the best places to see Christmas lights in Pigeon Forge is Dollywood’s Smoky Mountain Christmas. At this award-winning seasonal festival, you’ll get to see more than 6 million holiday lights, decorated Christmas trees, and other stunning holiday displays. You can also see heartwarming holiday shows and musical performances, taste seasonal foods, explore a variety of shops, and experience fun rides. On select nights, a festive fireworks display lights up the night in time to your favorite holiday tunes!

3. Winterfest Wonders of Light Walking Trail

The Winterfest Wonders of Light Walking Trail can be found along the Riverwalk Greenway in Pigeon Forge. This paved walking trail is lined with fun and unique Christmas light displays that showcase the beauty of the Smokies. These displays include illuminated Christmas trees, Smoky Mountain wildlife, giant flowers, dancing snowflakes, and many more! Some of the pieces stand more than 25 feet tall! You can access the Riverwalk Greenway from the parking lot near The Island in Pigeon Forge and the LeConte Center.

4. The Island in Pigeon Forge

The Island with christmas decorations and lights

If you want to see some of the best Christmas lights in Pigeon Forge, make sure you visit The Island in Pigeon Forge. This massive complex features a variety of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options. During the holiday season, The Island is fully decked out with giant ornaments, decorated trees, sparkling lights, and other festive decor. The Great Smoky Mountain Wheel is also lit up for the season with red, green, blue, and white lights. Take a ride on this 200-foot-tall wheel to get a bird’s-eye view of all the Christmas lights at The Island and throughout Pigeon Forge.

Stay in the Heart of Pigeon Forge This Holiday Season

If you want to fully enjoy all the Christmas lights and displays this holiday season, stay in the heart of Pigeon Forge at The Inn on the River. Our Pigeon Forge hotel is located right on the main Parkway and is within walking distance and short driving distance to all that the town has to offer this time of year. Take a look at our selection of Pigeon Forge hotel rooms to find the perfect place to stay for your vacation!