Smoky Mountains event guide
Dollywood Smoky Mountain Christmas Trip
Dollywood's Smoky Mountain Christmas runs November 6, 2026, to January 3, 2027, with more than six million lights and holiday shows. Pick a weekend and book one group home for everyone.
By Cameron HergetEvent dates checked against the official source
- Pick your weekend
- Groups of up to 116
- Nov 6, 2026 – Jan 3, 2027
Where to stay for Smoky Mountain Christmas
All Smoky Mountains staysSuggested plan, day by day
These are suggestions, not a package. AvantStay doesn’t book, sell, or arrange any of these activities. Check hours, tickets, and reservations directly with each place.
Day 1 · Fri: Arrive & Winterfest
Settle in, then Pigeon Forge's Winterfest lights.
Lights · Evening
Pigeon Forge's Winterfest runs to January 31, 2027. Check the Winterfest map for the light displays and driving tour.
Day 2 · Sat: Dollywood
A full day at the park, staying for the lights after dark.
Event · All day
Holiday shows, rides and more than six million lights. Tickets required; check the park calendar for hours.
Day 3 · Sun: The Old Mill & the Island
Brunch by the river, then shops before heading home.
Restaurant · Brunch
Southern cooking beside a working grist mill.
Shopping · Afternoon
Shops, restaurants and rides in the middle of Pigeon Forge.
Good to know
Getting in
Fly into Knoxville (TYS), about an hour and 20 minutes from Pigeon Forge outside traffic.
Operating days
Check the Dollywood calendar for operating days and hours before you buy tickets.
Optional extras
Through AvantStay concierge you can add fridge stocking or a private chef, booked and paid separately.
Frequently asked questions
November 6, 2026, to January 3, 2027, per Pigeon Forge's official visitor site.
In Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, at 2700 Dollywood Parks Blvd.
Pigeon Forge and Sevierville keep the drive to Dollywood short. Set your dates and group size above to see the stays that fit.
About an hour and 20 minutes from Knoxville (TYS) outside traffic.