Christmas Fun In Pigeon Forge

The magic of the holiday season sparkles in this eastern Tennessee town

- Virginia Brown

With enchanting snow-capped mountains all around, twinkling lights by the millions, and entertainment for days, the magic of Christmas shines bright in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. Just under four-hours from Charlotte, and hugged all around by the peaks and hills of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park (the most-visited of all the national parks), Pigeon Forge is as thrilling or relaxed as its visitors make it.

From November through February, during the town’s annual Winterfest celebration, Pigeon Forge is covered in millions of lights that transform its streets into a sparkling wonderland. Hop on the charming trolley and catch oversized ornaments and trees, plus bear, deer, fox and other area natives — all aglow. Shining with lights, the Great Smoky Mountain Wheel is a show in itself.