While the Smoky Mountains are a prime destination for outdoor activities during the warmer months, there is no shortage of fun happenings in the winter. In November, the region turns into a winter wonderland and haven for holiday-themed activities and events. From couples looking for a romantic getaway, to families who want fun activities for the kids — or people who just need a vacation — the Smokies are the perfect place. Here are some of our favorite events that occur in November:
- Christmas at Dixie Stampede: November 1st – December 31st
The Dixie Stampede is a wildly popular attraction in Pigeon Forge — but the Christmas Show that takes place from the beginning of November to the end of December is something special. Lights, breathtaking scenes, and holiday music transform the Dixie Stampede Arena into a winter wonderland. Enjoy a live nativity scene, 32 magnificent horses, and a delicious four-course meal while participating in a friendly rivalry between the North and South Poles. You might even get chosen to be a part of the show!
- Dollywood’s Smoky Mountain Christmas: November 5th – January 1st
From November to January, Dollywood is brought to life by four million holiday lights and entertaining holiday performances. The park is renowned for its outstanding holiday-themed shows, including It’s a Wonderful Life, A Christmas Carol, and Appalachian Christmas — but there are several other spectacular events that you won’t want to miss at Dollywood’s Smoky Mountain Christmas. This season, Dollywood is introducing a new holiday tradition, The Parade of Many Colors, that highlights the values and principles of Dolly and her family. Between the vibrant, colorful floats and interactive characters like Santa and Rudolph, the parade will be a hit with the whole family. While you’re at the park, don’t forget to visit the Timber Canyon Festival of Lights and Santa Land to complete your magical holiday experience.
- Annual Veterans Day Celebrations: November 11th
Remember and honor the service and sacrifices made by or veterans at one of three Veterans Day Celebrations in Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, and Sevierville. Each is unique and feature different patriotic activities. In Gatlinburg, veterans will be recognized and celebrated at these annual events with music, a military flyover, an American Bald Eagle Presentation, and many more. At the Pigeon Forge celebration, there will be a Salute to Veterans Parade, complete with live music and themed floats. In Sevierville, members of both the local and state government, including Sevier County Mayor Larry Waters and State Senator Doug Overbey, will honor veterans with speeches. After the ceremony, the celebration will continue with a flyover by the Warbirds of America. All three events take place on November 11th and are free to the public.
November in the Smoky Mountains
Although many outdoorsy activities in the area are now out of season (including tubing in the Smoky Mountains), there are numerous reasons to visit the region in November — and the events listed above are only three of them! There’s the 27th annual Winter Magic Kickoff on November 9th, the Titanic Family Camp on November 10th, the 5th annual “Light the Way 5K” on November 11th, and many more! Stay tuned on the blog for more events happening in December!
