Ever wonder why the Smoky Mountains are such a popular destination year-round? A big part of the magic comes from the incredible calendar of events, festivals, and live music that keep this scenic region buzzing. Each season brings its unique charm and activities, but since we’re talking about the Smoky Mountains, fall brings an extra layer of charm: extremely pleasant weather and spectacular autumn scenery serving as a backdrop for the most unique events of the year.
To help you find the best autumn festivities in the Smoky Mountains, this blog is your guide to the top fall annual events in the Smoky Mountains.
At Smoky Mountain Holiday, we offer a variety of cabins with amenities like hot tubs, full kitchens, fireplaces, cinema and game rooms, and even pet-friendly options. Check out our website to find the perfect cabin for your stay. For more tips on what to do during your visit to Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge, head over to our destination blog. We’ve got tons of local spots and insider tips just waiting for you!
Now, let’s dive into those exciting events!
Fall Events in Pigeon Forge, TN
1. Harvest Festival at Dollywood (September – October)
The Harvest Festival at Dollywood is an enchanting fall celebration running from early September through late October. This event turns Dollywood into a vibrant autumn wonderland filled with the sights, sounds, smells, and tastes of fall. The atmosphere is a delightful blend of traditional harvest festivities and Southern charm, set against the Smoky Mountains’ stunning fall foliage.
Visitors can enjoy live performances of gospel and bluegrass music, stroll through displays of handcrafted goods from artisans nationwide, and savor seasonal food. This festival is incredibly family-friendly, with highlights like the Great Pumpkin LumiNights featuring thousands of creatively carved pumpkins and illuminated displays.
A particularly captivating feature is Hoot Owl Hollow, featuring hundreds of pumpkins in Dollywood’s Craftsman’s Valley. The highlight is the massive version of the nocturnal creature created with more than 150 carved white pumpkins.
2. Pigeon Forge Fall Rod Run (September)
The Pigeon Forge Fall Rod Run is a premier automotive event held every September, drawing car enthusiasts from all over the country. This three-day event features thousands of classic cars and trucks, making it a paradise for automotive aficionados. The atmosphere is buzzing with excitement as attendees marvel at the beautifully restored vehicles, swap stories, and enjoy the cooler autumn weather.
Activities include a massive swap meet, hundreds of show cars, a car corral, and competitions with top awards and cash giveaways. This event is a fantastic way to kick off the fall season with a unique blend of nostalgia and automotive excellence.
3. Pigeon Forge Bluegrass Festival (September)
The Pigeon Forge Bluegrass Festival is an end-of-September event that brings together some of the best bluegrass talent in the country. Held at the LeConte Center, this festival offers an evening of soul-stirring bluegrass music that resonates with the heart of Americana. The atmosphere is electric, with the audience tapping their toes and swaying to the rhythms of the banjos and fiddles.
Besides the captivating performances, visitors can enjoy a variety of food vendors and craft booths, adding to the festive spirit. This event is perfect for music lovers and families alike, providing a great way to experience the rich musical heritage of the region. The festival’s lineup includes top-notch bands like Rhonda Vincent and the Po’ Ramblin Boys. Whether you’re a die-hard bluegrass fan or just looking for a night of great music and fun, the Pigeon Forge Bluegrass Festival is a must-attend event.
Fall Events in Gatlinburg, TN
4. Gatlinburg Harvest Festival (September – November)
The Gatlinburg Harvest Festival is a vibrant celebration that runs from late September through early November, transforming the town into a picturesque autumn paradise. The atmosphere is festive, with streets adorned with colorful fall decorations, including hay bales, scarecrows, and pumpkins. Activities abound, from the Scarecrow Scavenger Hunt, where visitors locate unique scarecrows throughout downtown, to voting for the Best Harvest Decorations.
This festival is ideal for families, offering a blend of fun and educational experiences amidst the stunning fall foliage. Visitors can also enjoy live music and various themed events that capture the essence of the season. The Gatlinburg Harvest Festival is not just a visual delight but also an immersive experience that allows visitors to engage with the community and enjoy the best of fall in the Smoky Mountains.
7. Ripley’s Trick or Treat Kick-Off Karnival (October)
Ripley’s Trick or Treat Kick-Off Karnival in Gatlinburg is a family-friendly Halloween event held on October 31st at Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies Plaza.
You can enjoy a fun and festive atmosphere with costumed characters, lots of candy, and a variety of contests, such as a costume contest. The event has several trick-or-treating stations, live entertainment, and numerous games for children and families to have fun together. While you soak in the spooky season vibe, make sure to grab some seasonal delicacies offered by food vendors.
The Karnival provides a memorable Halloween experience and also the opportunity to support a good cause, as proceeds benefit Heartland Services in Sevierville.
8. Pigeon Forge Winterfest Kickoff (November)
The Pigeon Forge Winterfest Kickoff in early November marks the beginning of the holiday season, transforming the town into a winter wonderland. The event kicks off at Patriot Park with festivities that include a special tribute to veterans, followed by the lighting of over six million holiday lights and a spectacular fireworks show. The atmosphere is magical, filled with holiday cheer, twinkling lights, and the warmth of community spirit.
Other attractions include food trucks, holiday vendors, and various themed events that continue throughout the season. The event is free to the public, making it an accessible and delightful way to start the holiday celebrations in the Smoky Mountains.
9. Gatlinburg’s Winter Magic & Chili Cook Off (November)
Another beloved annual event in early November is Gatlinburg’s Winter Magic & Chili Cook Off, bringing a spicy touch to chilly autumn days.
The event’s highlight is the chili cookoff, where local chefs and businesses compete to create the best chili, offering samples to attendees who can vote for their favorites. You can try various chili recipes, enjoy music performances, and meet Bush’s Beans’ “Duke the Dog.”
The Chili Cook Off not only offers a culinary delight but also signals the beginning of Gatlinburg’s Winter Magic, a season filled with holiday lights and celebrations.
10. Arts & Crafts Thanksgiving Show (November – December)
The Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community Thanksgiving Show is a delightful event running from late November to early December at the Gatlinburg Convention Center. This show features unique handcrafted gifts made by members of the Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community, the nation’s largest organization of independent artisans.
Visitors can watch live demonstrations and find incredible creations spanning pottery, jewelry, woodwork, painting, and much more. There’s also a great selection of food vendors offering traditional holiday treats.
Fall Events in Sevierville, TN
11. Kyker Farms Corn Maze (October)
Kyker Farms Corn Maze in Sevierville is an annual fall event open throughout October, offering a range of classic autumn activities. There are five different corn mazes to explore, hayrides, pumpkin patch picking, a petting zoo, cornhole, and bonfires, along with tasty fall snacks.
At night, the farm hosts a haunted trail and Zombie Blasterz Paintball for some spooky Halloween fun. Owned and operated by the Kyker family for nine generations, Kyker Farms is rich in history and tradition. The farm also features beautiful photo opportunities and a shop with handmade goods for you to take home.
Where to stay in Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg?
Our short-term rental cabins provide the ideal blend of privacy, stunning mountain views, and a cozy atmosphere, ensuring a truly relaxing escape in the Smokies.
At Smoky Mountain Holiday, we offer cabins of various sizes and amenities, including hot tubs, full kitchens, fireplaces, cinema and game rooms, and even pet-friendly options. Explore our website to discover our fantastic range of cabin choices.
We’re dedicated to ensuring you and your family have the best possible experience in the Smokies. With Smoky Mountain Holiday, your vacation memories are guaranteed to be unforgettable.