The holiday season in Tennessee is a wonderland of Christmas lights, holiday traditions, and many festive events for the whole family.
If you are seeking information on the best Christmas events in Tennessee, look no further! Here are 21 of the best things to do across the state to put you in the Christmas spirit and a few other fun things worth checking out while you are here.
Christmas Fun
1. 10th Annual Holiday LIGHTS at Cheekwood Estate & Gardens
Address: 1200 Forrest Park Dr, Nashville, TN 37205
Pricing: Adult tickets begin at $26
Dates: November 22, 2024 - January 5, 2025
The 10th Annual Holiday LIGHTS at Cheekwood Estate & Gardens offers a truly enchanting holiday experience in Nashville. From late November to early January, guests can enjoy a magical one-mile walk through beautifully illuminated gardens featuring over a million lights.
Highlights include s’mores, seasonal drinks, and a festive Holiday Marketplace. The Historic Mansion, elegantly decorated by former White House florist Laura Dowling, adds a touch of grandeur to the event.
For those looking to save, discounted “Late Night LIGHTS” tickets are available Monday through Thursday at 8:30 PM for just $20 per person, providing a budget-friendly way to enjoy this beloved tradition.
Address: 2700 Dollywood Parks Blvd, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863
Pricing: Ranges between $82 - $99 per Adult for a 1-Day Ticket
Dates: November 1, 2024 - January 5, 2025
Step into the enchanting world of Dollywood's Smoky Mountain Christmas, where the magic of the holiday season comes alive at this Pigeon Forge theme park.
From early November to early January, the park radiates with over 6 million lights and numerous Christmas trees, creating a dazzling spectacle that embraces the holiday spirit.
Indulge in the joyous ambiance with captivating Christmas-themed shows, festive live music, and the park's renowned roller coasters and attractions, including the new Big Bear Mountain.
On the weekends, as the evening descends, witness the winter sky aglow with dazzling fireworks synchronized to classic holiday music, adding an extra layer of wonder to this cherished celebration. Set against the backdrop of the Great Smoky Mountains, Dollywood promises an unforgettable holiday experience for the entire family!
For more details, check out my blog post, Your Guide to Dollywood's Smoky Mountain Christmas.
3. Winterfest Driving Tour Of Lights
Address: Pigeon Forge Parkway
Pricing: Free
Dates: November 7, 2024 - February 16, 2025
The Winterfest Driving Tour of Lights in Pigeon Forge transforms the Smoky Mountains into a dazzling holiday wonderland. From early November through mid-February, millions of twinkling lights illuminate the streets, bridges, and displays, offering a magical journey for all ages.
Highlights include the beloved 12 Days of Christmas display, where each verse of the classic carol comes to life, and the enchanting Fairytale Fantasy scenes featuring illuminated characters from timeless nursery rhymes like Humpty Dumpty and Hickory Dickory Dock.
Moreover, light-covered bridges over the Little Pigeon River shimmer with colorful lights reflecting off the water, creating a tranquil and magical holiday scene. So, bundle up, grab some hot chocolate, and roll down the windows to soak in the joy of winter's festive cheer!
4. Christmas at Ober Gatlinburg
Address: 1339 Ski Mountain Rd, Gatlinburg, TN 37738
Pricing: Starts at $29 per person
Dates: November 30 - December 23, 2024
Christmas at Ober Mountain brings the holiday spirit to life with a festive blend of activities and snowy fun.
This mountaintop adventure park and ski area transforms into a winter wonderland, featuring daily appearances by Santa, a free kids’ craft area, and outdoor Christmas movies.
Families can enjoy snow tubing, skiing, and snowboarding or explore the Family Snow Zone, complete with a giant igloo and icy slide.
For a special treat, join the Cereal with Santa holiday breakfast on December 14 and 21, where guests can savor cereals, pastries, and holiday goodies while meeting Santa and Mrs. Claus. Reservations are required for this magical event, which includes a gift, sing-alongs, and photo opportunities.
5. The Pinnacle Speedway In Lights
Address: 106 Thunder Valley Dr, Bristol, TN 37620
Pricing: $25 - $30 per car with up to 8 passengers
Dates: November 15, 2024 - January 4, 2025
Experience the magic of The Pinnacle Speedway In Lights, a breathtaking holiday spectacle at Bristol Motor Speedway and Dragway.
Embark on a 4-mile journey through a dazzling display of 3 million lights, with the opportunity to drive around "The World's Fastest Half-Mile" track, creating a festive drive like no other.
Make a pit stop at the Christmas Village, nestled in the popular infield location, adding to the enchanting atmosphere of this extraordinary light show experience.
6. Christmas at the Gaylord Opryland Resort
Address: 2800 Opryland Dr, Nashville, TN 37214
Pricing: Price varies per attraction and packages
Dates: November 8, 2024 – January 4, 2025
Experience the enchantment of Christmas at Gaylord Opryland featuring ICE! showcasing beloved scenes from Frosty the Snowman intricately sculpted from over 2 million pounds of ice.
Whether as an overnight guest or day visitor, revel in live shows, dazzling displays, and festive activities for all ages. Glide across the 9,000-square-foot outdoor ice skating rink or feel the thrill of zooming down the 15-foot-high ice tubing hill.
Join the Snowman Scramble Scavenger Hunt to find scattered clothing and accessories meant for decorating Christmas snowmen and design your very own snowman!
Enjoy a live ice skating show with champion skaters soaring through the air with jaw-dropping jumps, spins, and lifts at the Merry and Bright Skating Spectacular.
Hop aboard the Delta Riverboat Christmas Cruise, explore the outdoor Nativity, and enjoy bumper cars, snowball build & blast, and much more in this holiday extravaganza at Gaylord Opryland Resort!
For more details about ICE! and celebrating Christmas at a Gaylord Hotel, check out my blog post, ICE! is back at the Gaylord Texan and The Grinch is here too.
7. SkyLand’s Festival Of Lights at the Ranch
Address: 1620 Parkway Sevierville, TN 37862
Pricing: Adult tickets start at $18.99
Dates: November 1, 2024 - January 20, 2025
SkyLand’s Festival of Lights at the Ranch is a dazzling holiday event filled with over half a million lights and festive attractions. Begin your experience with a scenic chairlift ride to the top of the ranch, where extravagant light displays await.
At the top, the walkthrough portion features illuminated tunnels, larger-than-life displays, and photo-worthy spots like Antler Falls and the life-sized Nativity.
Visitors can gather around campfires, play yard games, and enjoy Christmas movies while soaking in the festive ambiance. For even more excitement, do not miss the dazzling light show in front of the towering 25-foot Christmas tree or the immersive projection display on a 35-foot barn.
Indulge in holiday treats at the North Pole Gingerbread Bakery, offering everything from gourmet hot chocolate to homemade cupcakes and cookies. New additions for the 2024-2025 season include even more lights and a 60-foot climbing net structure. SkyLand’s Festival of Lights promises a magical night of Western charm and holiday cheer.
8. Polar Express Train Ride at Great Smoky Mountains Railroad
Address: 45 Mitchell St. Bryson City, NC 28713 - South of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Pricing: Adult tickets begin at $44
Dates: November 7 - December 31, 2024
Embark on a magical journey aboard THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride by the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad, departing from Bryson City Depot. This 1¼-hour round-trip journey carries passengers through serene wilderness to the enchanting North Pole.
Inspired by the motion picture, the experience includes warm cocoa and a sweet treat while listening and reading along to the beloved story.
Upon arrival at the North Pole, children light up with joy as Santa Claus boards the train to greet each child and gift them the first present of the season - a silver sleigh bell. The trip concludes with festive Christmas music and carols on the return to Bryson City.
9. Enchanted Christmas at Anakeesta
Address: 576 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN 37738
Pricing: Adult tickets begin at $34.99
Dates: November 15, 2024 - January 5, 2025
Enchanted Christmas at Anakeesta transforms the mountaintop into a sparkling winter wonderland, illuminated by over a million twinkling lights.
Visitors can enjoy festive treats such as Beef and Salmon Wellingtons, spiral ham, and sweets like Candlelight Cannoli and dulce de leche churros, all while exploring seasonal activities.
The Hot Cocoa Crawl offers a chance to sample a variety of cocoa flavors, with a complimentary souvenir mug ornament for completing the adventure.
Guests can also gather around cozy fire pits, listen to the enchanting Anakeesta Carolers, and enjoy live performances like the Holiday Hijinx show with Holly and Jolly or the playful Toy Land Tales featuring Santa’s cheerful elves.
10. Christmas at Dolly Parton's Stampede
Address: 3849 Parkway, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863
Pricing: Tickets start at $59.99
Dates: October 30, 2024 - January 4, 2025
Christmas at Dolly Parton’s Stampede in Pigeon Forge is a dazzling holiday experience blending festive entertainment and a hearty feast. The Christmas show features an enchanting North Pole vs. South Pole rivalry brought to life by a talented cast and 32 magnificent horses.
Highlights include the magical Sugar Plum Fairy transforming toys into lively performers and a breathtaking live nativity scene complete with three kings on camels.
New this year, “Elegance on Ice” transforms the arena into a glistening wonderland, showcasing graceful ice skaters. Santa Claus himself makes a grand entrance in a horse-drawn sleigh, adding to the holiday cheer. Guests can enjoy this spectacular show while savoring a delicious four-course holiday meal.
The menu features creamy vegetable soup, a buttery biscuit, a whole rotisserie chicken, hickory-smoked pulled pork, corn on the cob, homestyle mashed potatoes, a specialty dessert, and unlimited beverages. Dolly Parton’s Stampede offers an unforgettable holiday celebration for the entire family.
11. Pigeon Forge Snow
Address: 2533 Teaster Ln, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863
Pricing: Prices start at $9.99, but vary based on the day and type of activities
Dates: Year Long
Experience the thrill of year-round snow tubing at Pigeon Forge Snow, America’s premier indoor snow park. With options for one hour of tubing and 30 minutes of snow play, it is the perfect destination for family fun, catering to all ages under any weather conditions.
Not participating? Watch your loved ones enjoy the slopes from the second level, designed for observation, relaxation, and convenient access to the snack bar, ensuring an unforgettable snowy adventure for everyone.
12. Music City Christmas Evening Cruise
Address: 2812 Opryland Dr, Nashville, TN 37214
Pricing: Adult ticket prices begin at $100
Dates: Select Dates between November 14 - December 23, 2024
Immerse yourself in the elegance of Music City Christmas aboard the General Jackson Showboat in Nashville for a holiday experience like no other.
From timeless classics by Bing Crosby and Nat King Cole to modern favorites by Mariah Carey and Michael Bublé, enjoy a spectacular production featuring Nashville's top vocalists, dancers, and an all-star live band, now enhanced with a dynamic horn section.
Be enchanted by Broadway-style dance numbers, stunning costumes, and a captivating multimedia display that embodies the true spirit and magic of Christmas.
Prepare for a night to cherish and mark a new annual tradition by donning your holiday best and joining the unforgettable Music City Christmas celebration!
13. Tennessee Christmas Midday Cruise
Address: 2812 Opryland Dr, Nashville, TN 37214
Pricing: Adult ticket is $72
Dates: Select Dates between November 15 - December 25, 2024
Embark on an authentic Tennessee Christmas journey aboard the Tennessee Christmas Midday Cruise, filled with a dazzling holiday set and stunning costumes.
This energetic show and musical delight showcases holiday classics by iconic Tennessee artists like Reba McEntire, Blake Shelton, Garth Brooks, and Elvis Presley, blending bluegrass from the Great Smoky Mountains and rhythm and blues from Memphis.
Culminating in a heartfelt celebration of the true meaning of the season, immerse yourself in this musical tribute as you cruise down an authentic Tennessee riverway and make unforgettable holiday memories.
14. FrankTown Festival of Lights
Address: 4215 Long Lane Franklin, TN 37064
Pricing: $34.69 per car with up to 8 passengers
Dates: November 22 - December 31, 2024
The FrankTown Festival of Lights offers a festive drive-through holiday experience at the Williamson County Ag Expo Center, perfect for family fun.
Spanning a mile and a half, the dazzling display features over 200 synchronized light installations set to holiday music you can tune into on your car radio.
Highlights include photo opportunities by the grand Christmas tree, s’mores by cozy fire pits, and tasty treats from food trucks.
For a special twist, on select Wednesdays, November 27 and December 4, 11, and 18, you can stroll the illuminated path on foot from 5:00 to 6:30 pm before the route opens for vehicles at 7:00 pm.
Whether driving or walking, the ticket price remains the same, making it an excellent opportunity to gather friends and family for a memorable holiday outing.
15. Truist Zoo Lights at Memphis Zoo
Address: 2000 Prentiss Place, Memphis, TN 38112
Pricing: $20 per person for Non-members ($16 per person for Members)
Dates: Select nights from November 29, 2024, to January 4, 2025
Truist Zoo Lights at the Memphis Zoo transforms the grounds into a festive wonderland on select nights during the holiday season. Visitors can stroll through the dazzling Truist Courtyard Winter Wonderland, capture the perfect photo in the popular Light Tunnel, and meet Santa at Santa’s Workshop.
The fun continues with possible surprise visits from the zoo’s ambassador animals and opportunities to ride the Holiday Express Train or China Carousel, both included with admission. With twinkling lights and holiday cheer around every corner, it is an enchanting experience for the whole family.
Other Fun Things
16. Waterfall Hunting
Explore Tennessee's stunning waterfalls during the Christmas season for an unforgettable adventure. Start at Falling Water Falls State Natural Area for picturesque streams and distant waterfall views atop the mountain.
Rainbow Lake Wilderness Park offers a thrilling bridge over a stream, while the uphill trek to Laurel Falls Trail leads to a breathtaking, sizable waterfall, though for a novice, the trek might test your endurance.
Each location promises unique experiences, from goofy stream-side photos to the challenge of uphill climbs and the awe-inspiring sight of cascading waters, making it a memorable holiday waterfall-hunting expedition. These are just a few of the breathtaking waterfalls in Tennessee, so the state is your oyster!
17. Ruby Falls
Address: 1720 South Scenic Hwy, Chattanooga, TN 37409
Pricing: Cave Walk to Ruby Falls Adult Ticket - $26.95
Explore the mesmerizing depths of Lookout Mountain at Ruby Falls, where a guided Cave Walk unveils the awe-inspiring 145-foot underground waterfall, the tallest accessible to the public in the United States.
On your exploration, you will descend 260 feet via a glass-front elevator and traverse the cavern trail, witnessing ancient formations and hearing the captivating story of the cavern's accidental discovery.
This unique adventure boasts a one-mile round trip exploration, showcasing stunning rock formations and the thundering spectacle of Ruby Falls during an approximately 1 to 1-hour 20-minute tour.
18. Lookout Mountain Incline Railway
Address: 3917 St Elmo Ave, Chattanooga, TN 37409
Pricing: $20 per Adult
Ascend Lookout Mountain with a thrilling ride on the Lookout Mountain Incline Railway, a funicular train with stations both at the mountain's summit and its base.
This gravity-defying railway boasts a 72.7% grade, earning its title as the world's steepest passenger train and affectionately known as "America's most amazing mile."
While seemingly intimidating, the steady ascent and descent provide a safe and exhilarating experience, offering passengers a breathtaking journey up and down the mountain's precipitous incline.
19. Downtown Nashville
Downtown Nashville offers a dynamic experience, from exploring the city by Segway Tours for a faster way to see the sights to enjoying a thrilling Monster Truck Tour through iconic spots like Nissan Stadium and Honky Tonk Highway.
The area is vibrant, hosting attractions like the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, making it a prime destination for music enthusiasts and a lively hub for restaurants and Honky Tonks along its iconic strip.
20. Opry Mills Mall
Address: 433 Opry Mills Dr, Nashville, TN 37214
Pricing: It depends on the activities, but entrance to the mall is free
Opry Mills Mall provides a typical shopping experience with numerous stores and a bustling food court featuring a carousel for added entertainment.
Moreover, the mall boasts various engaging attractions such as Madame Tussauds, where visitors can interact with lifelike wax figures of famous country singers and perform on a replica Grand Ole Opry Stage.
The mall is also home to the lively Great Big Game Show, offering contestants rounds of trivia and interactive mini-games, ensuring a day filled with entertainment beyond the typical shopping experience.
Additionally, during the Christmas season, guests can meet and take pictures with Santa Claus, adding to the festive atmosphere of the mall.
21. The Island at Pigeon Forge
Address: 131 The Island Dr, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863
Pricing: Free Admission and Parking
The Island at Pigeon Forge is a vibrant entertainment complex nestled alongside the Little Pigeon River, offering over 60 unique shops, plenty of dining options, including Paula Deen's Family Kitchen, and a lively atmosphere with live music, games, and rides.
At the heart of the Island stands the impressive 200-foot Great Smoky Mountain Wheel, dominating the skyline and offering stunning views of the surroundings.
Visitors can also enjoy the captivating Island Show Fountains, the Margaritaville Island Hotel, the Ole Smoky Distillery's stage, and an enchanting nightly water show that adds to the festive ambiance.
Happy Howdy-days!
Are you ready to immerse yourself in the holiday spirit in Tennessee? With an array of holiday events, dazzling lights, festive shows, and heartwarming holiday activities, Tennessee is a great place to enjoy your Christmas vacation!
Have you been to any of these Christmas events in Tennessee? Let me know in the comments below!
Share this article with the person or people you want to go on your next adventure with! Also, be sure to SUBSCRIBE below to learn about other places you should add to your "To Visit" List! Ready? Okay, vamos. Time to have fun!
Did you enjoy and find this blog post helpful?
If yes, subscribe at the end of this page to "Join the Fun 🥳" and receive our weekly newsletter so you do not miss out on a blog post!
You can also show your support and rep Dale, Let's Travel! by purchasing our 3x3 inch glossy sticker for $5! Free shipping within the United States. Are you interested in purchasing a sticker or two?
Email us at contactus@daleletstravel.com with the subject line "DLT! Sticker" or "Blog Sticker," we can finalize your payment method and grab your mailing address there! Thank you for supporting my small business! 😊
Comments