Top 5 Things to Do in the Smoky Mountains in December
While our campground may be closed for the season, you’ll still find plenty of great reasons to visit the Smoky Mountains this December! With everything from festive holiday events to unique shopping experiences, there is truly something for all members of the family! Whether you’re planning to visit in early December or spend Christmas in the Smokies, you’ll love this magical time of year! Here are the top 5 things to do in the Smoky Mountains in December:
1. Enjoy Holiday Shopping
The Smoky Mountains are home to some of the most unique shopping destinations you will find, so take this opportunity to pick up a special gift for your loved ones back home! Some of the most popular shopping locations in the Smokies include The Island in Pigeon Forge and The Village Shops in downtown Gatlinburg, both of which have lots of fun specialty shops! There are plenty of other wonderful stores too, such as the Incredible Christmas Place, Three Bears General Store, and the Old Mill General Store!
2. Experience the Winterfest Celebration
Another one of the top things to do in the Smoky Mountains in December is Winterfest, where Pigeon Forge, Gatlinburg, and Sevierville are transformed into a winter wonderland with millions of twinkling lights! While driving through these charming mountain towns on the Parkway, you’ll see hundreds of elaborate displays that feature everything from traditional winter scenes to animals that are native to the Smokies!
3. Catch the Christmas Version of Your Favorite Show
If you’re familiar with all the fabulous entertainment in Pigeon Forge, just wait until you see the Christmas version of your favorite show! Whether you love traditional holiday music, dazzling dance routines, or side-splitting comedy, you’ll find it all available in the Smokies! Some of the shows that you won’t want to miss include the Country Tonite Christmas Show, Christmas at Hatfield & McCoy Dinner Feud, and Comedy Barn Christmas! These are family-friendly shows that are appropriate for all ages, so bring the whole gang along for the fun!
4. Attend Smoky Mountain Christmas at Dollywood
When it comes to the top things to do during the holiday season, definitely put Dollywood’s Smoky Mountain Christmas on your list! This delightful seasonal event features over 6 million twinkling lights, award-winning shows, thrilling amusement rides, tasty seasonal treats, and even the chance to see Santa in his workshop! If you’re lucky enough to visit on Friday and Saturday nights, you’ll also get to view a magnificent fireworks display that lights up the night sky!
5. Go Snow Tubing at Ober Mountain
You can still enjoy the great outdoors in December with the breathtaking snow tubing hill at Ober Mountain! This 350-foot tubing hill features a 50-foot drop, allowing you to race down the slopes with your family and friends! Unlike a traditional sledding hill, you don’t have to walk back to the top each time as the Magic Carpet transports you right back to the starting position! The snow tubing sessions are each 90 minutes long and sell out in advance during holiday periods, so make your reservations as soon as possible! December offers skiing and snowboarding sessions as well. e
We hope that you enjoy all of these wonderful things to do in the Smoky Mountains in December. For more ideas of things to do, check out these top activities during winter in the Smoky Mountains!
