Gatlinburg Winterfest 2025-2026
Cabin Rentals

Experience the magic of millions of holiday lights and cozy up in a luxury mountain cabin. Winterfest transforms Gatlinburg into a winter wonderland from November through February!

✨ Millions of Lights šŸŽ„ Holiday Magic šŸ”„ Cozy Fireplace ā™Øļø Hot Tub
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ā„ļø Winterfest 2025-2026 Dates

November 7, 2025 – February 15, 2026

Lights stay on nightly through the entire season!

What is Gatlinburg Winterfest?

Gatlinburg Winterfest is one of the largest light displays in the Southeast. Each year, the city transforms with over 3 million lights spread across downtown, the parkway, and surrounding areas. Combined with festive events, holiday shopping, and Dollywood's Smoky Mountain Christmas, it's the most magical time to visit the Smokies!

šŸŽ„ Winterfest Highlights

  • Millions of Lights - Over 3 million LEDs illuminate downtown
  • Trolley Ride of Lights - Kick-off celebration in November
  • Fantasy of Lights Parade - First Friday in December
  • New Year's Eve Ball Drop - Gatlinburg's famous Space Needle celebration
  • Dollywood's Smoky Mountain Christmas - Award-winning theme park event
  • Ober Gatlinburg - Ice skating and snow tubing
  • Live Entertainment - Holiday music throughout downtown

šŸ  Why a Cabin is Perfect for Winterfest

After walking through the twinkling lights and holiday festivities, return to your cozy mountain cabin. Our cabins offer:

  • Warm fireplaces for cozy evenings
  • Hot tubs to soak in while snow falls (if you're lucky!)
  • Full kitchens for holiday meals together
  • Theater rooms for classic holiday movies
  • Game rooms for family fun on cold evenings
  • Mountain views of potential winter wonderlands
Book Early for Best Dates!

Winterfest Cabin Rentals

Cozy cabins with fireplaces, hot tubs, and all the amenities for your winter escape

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Winterfest 2025-2026 Planning Tips

šŸ“… When to Visit

  • Early November: Lights just turned on, fewer crowds, great weather
  • Thanksgiving Week: Full holiday atmosphere, book months ahead
  • Early December: Fantasy of Lights parade (first Friday), holiday events begin
  • Christmas Week: Peak season, most festive, book very early!
  • New Year's Eve: Ball drop celebration at Space Needle
  • January-February: Lights still up, fewer crowds, potential snow!

šŸŒ”ļø Winter Weather

Gatlinburg winters are generally mild (40s-50s°F), but mountain weather can bring surprise snow! Pack layers and check the forecast. Our cabins have heated interiors, so you'll be cozy regardless of outside temps.

šŸŽ Bonus Winter Activities

  • Ice skating at Ober Gatlinburg
  • Snow tubing (when conditions permit)
  • Dollywood's Smoky Mountain Christmas (through early January)
  • Hot cocoa crawl at downtown shops
  • Scenic drives through Smoky Mountains (possible snow!)

Winterfest FAQ

Winterfest 2025-2026 runs from November 7, 2025 through February 15, 2026. The millions of holiday lights stay on nightly through the entire season!

Yes! Winterfest is one of Gatlinburg's most popular seasons. Book 2-3 months in advance for the best selection, especially around Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's.

Gatlinburg can see snow, especially January and February, but it's not guaranteed. Higher elevations (like in the national park) see more snow than downtown. Our cabins are equipped for winter weather with heated interiors!

Don't Miss Winterfest 2025-2026!

Book your cozy cabin for the most magical season in the Smokies. Holiday lights, festive events, and mountain memories await!

Book Your Winterfest Cabin