Top 10 Reasons to Visit the Smoky Mountains During Winterfest
1️⃣ Millions of Lights and Magical Displays
Over five million sparkling lights illuminate the Smokies during Winterfest. From drive-through light tours to glowing walk-through experiences like the Wonders of Light Walking Trail, every night feels like stepping into a holiday storybook.
2️⃣ Award-Winning Christmas Shows
The stage comes alive during Winterfest! Enjoy holiday favorites at Dolly Parton’s Stampede, Country Tonite, Hatfield & McCoy, and Comedy Barn - each packed with music, laughter, and festive spirit that will have the whole family smiling.
3️⃣ Dollywood’s Smoky Mountain Christmas
No Winterfest visit is complete without a trip to Dollywood’s Smoky Mountain Christmas. With more than six million lights, larger-than-life displays, heartwarming shows, and the glow of the park’s famous Christmas tree, it’s a holiday celebration unlike any other. From festive rides to candlelight carols, it’s pure Smoky Mountain magic around every corner.
4️⃣ Unique Ways to See the Lights
Experience the glow from every angle - stroll the Wonders of Light Walking Trail, hop aboard a trolley for a guided tour, or take your holiday sightseeing to new heights with a Winterfest Night Flight from Scenic Helicopter Tours.
5️⃣ Cozy Homes and Warm Gatherings
There’s nothing better than ending your day curled up by the fire, cocoa in hand, surrounded by the people who matter most. Our homes are made for moments like these - where holiday lights glimmer through the windows and laughter fills the air.
6️⃣ Small-Town Charm and Mountain Spirit
Winterfest brings out the very best of our mountain communities. You’ll find charming local shops, tree lightings, parades, and smiling faces everywhere you go - proof that the holiday spirit truly lives here in the Smokies.
7️⃣ Festive Attractions and Family Fun
From the Rocky Top Mountain Coaster to Candy Christmas at Crave Golf, the Smokies are packed with ways to make memories. Add in holiday music, glowing lights, and a backdrop of mountain magic, and you’ve got fun for every age.
8️⃣ The Perfect Place for Holiday Shopping
Skip the crowds and find something special for everyone on your list! Explore The Island, The Mountain Mile, and the Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community for one-of-a-kind gifts that come with a little Smoky Mountain charm.
9️⃣ A Chance to See Snow (and Play in It!)
From snow tubing at Rowdy Bear’s Smoky Mountain Snowpark to indoor snow fun at Pigeon Forge Snow, there’s no shortage of frosty adventure. You might even spot real snow dusting the peaks at Ober Mountain - the perfect finishing touch to your Winterfest getaway.
🔟 Memories That Last a Lifetime
The lights fade, the decorations come down, but the memories linger - cozy nights by the fire, shared laughter, and moments that make you say, “We have to do this again next year.”
🎁 Bonus: Free Attraction Tickets With Your Stay
Your Winterfest getaway comes with even more to celebrate! Guests who book with Thomas Rentals receive complimentary tickets to some of the area’s most popular attractions - including Dollywood’s Smoky Mountain Christmas, Dolly Parton’s Stampede, Country Tonite, SkyLand’s Festival of Lights, and more.
💫 Plan Your Winterfest Getaway
The lights, the laughter, and the mountain magic - Winterfest is a season that truly has it all. Whether you’re chasing sparkling views, cozying up by the fire, or making memories that will last far beyond the holidays, there’s no better time to experience the Smokies.