Everyone knows that Gatlinburg is a great city to visit at any time of the year! Even so, if you plan to visit in late fall or winter, you’ll get to experience a very fun event called Winterfest. It is a festival that takes place in Gatlinburg and the rest of the Smoky Mountain area from early November through mid-January, with many unique winter activities to enjoy. Here is a list of 3 great things to do during the Gatlinburg TN Winterfest celebration:
1. See Stunning Christmas Light Displays From Your Car
One of the great things to do during the Gatlinburg TN Winterfest is see the Christmas light displays at night. They are located at many of Gatlinburg’s popular attractions, such as Anakeesta and the Gatlinburg Space Needle. As you’re admiring these stunning lights, see if you can spot the life-size three-dimensional snowpeople. There are 43 unique figures in total. Another perk of seeing these light displays is that you can do so from the comfort of your own vehicle. This means you don’t have to worry about bringing the right clothes to stay warm.
2. Experience Lights Up Close at Gatlinburg SkyPark and Anakeesta
If you want to see the stunning Christmas lights up close, one place you can go at night is the Gatlinburg SkyPark. The attraction has a fun event called Lights Over Gatlinburg. Ride the Gatlinburg SkyLift up to the SkyPark. It is home to the SkyBridge, which is the longest pedestrian footbridge in North America at 700 feet. During Winterfest, the long bridge is adorned with a 300-foot tunnel of lights. There is also a 38-foot Christmas tree with lights that are synced to music. Another place to see Christmas lights is Anakeesta. This is another attraction that is high above Gatlinburg. Admire the lights as they illuminate the already beautiful mountaintop. If you get hungry, regain your energy with seasonal food. Make sure to bring your camera, as there will be many great photo opportunities wherever you decide to go!
3. Shop for Unique Christmas Gifts
The many stores and shops along the downtown strip offer great places for holiday shopping in Gatlinburg and have lots of one-of-a-kind Christmas gifts. You’ll be able to find something for everyone on your list! One place to go is The Village in Gatlinburg. The area is located in downtown Gatlinburg. It gets the unique name because it is modeled after an old-time European village. The Spice and Tea Exchange is just one of the unique shops, where you can pick up some handmade seasonings for the person who loves to cook. Another great place to shop is the Great Smoky Arts and Crafts Community. This is the largest independent group of artisans in the United States, and their various art pieces will make wonderful gifts! For example, go to Santa Claus-et and get all things Christmas. They have a great selection of ornaments for the tree along with other decorations. You can also get some delicious treats, such as candy canes. Kids will love seeing Santa and telling him what they want for Christmas.
Now you know of some great things to do at the Gatlinburg TN Winterfest celebration! Need more help with your holiday itinerary? Explore all the other fun things to do in Gatlinburg!
