Enjoy the Magic of Winterfest in the Great Smoky Mountains

By Shelia Ogle As the air begins to turn cold and the first tentative snow flurries dust the highest mountain peaks, Pigeon Forge, Gatlinburg, and Sevierville, TN are busy preparing for a magical event. Miles of twinkling lights are strung, streets are draped in red and green, and everywhere people are bustling about, getting ready for Winterfest. Beginning in early November, these quaint mountain villages are transformed into fairy kingdoms where everything glitters, music surrounds you, and treasured family memories are made. If you’re looking for a one-of-a-kind getaway this winter, this family friendly celebration has something to offer everyone. Getting in the Holiday Spirit The holiday shopping season may not officially begin until Thanksgiving, but you’ll discover plenty of unique treasures in Pigeon Forge during Winterfest. Hundreds of talented artisans call the Great Smoky Mountains home, creating and selling magnificent works of art in nearly any medium you can imagine. Colorful quilts, exquisite jewelry, hand-turned bowls, and beautiful wood carvings are just a few of the crafts on display. Spend a day browsing in the shops along the world-famous Arts & Crafts Community Trail, and you’ll find the perfect gift for nearly everyone on your shopping list. While any season is a good time to visit Pigeon Forge, Winterfest lets you see a side of the city you’ve never seen before. More than five million tiny lights turn the town into a fairytale kingdom. Hop aboard the Fun Time Trolley at dusk for a guided tour, and enjoy learning about the history while enjoying the sights. Everywhere you look, trees and storefronts are draped with glittering lights in celebration of the season. Grownups and kids alike will love the festive atmosphere and old-fashioned holiday spirit that blankets the town. Family Friendly Christmas Shows Kids of all ages will want to catch the spectacular Christmas show at Pigeon Forge’s Smoky Mountain Opry. A living nativity tells the story of the first Christmas, talented singers perform your favorite holiday music, and Santa makes an appearance with his reindeer. You can’t help but feel the spirit of Christmas after seeing this entertaining show. Everyone Loves a Parade Gatlinburg and Sevierville both kick off the season with their much-anticipated Christmas parades. Make plans to be in downtown Gatlinburg on December 7, 2012 for the Fantasy of Lights Parade. This spectacular event begins at 7:30pm and features a dozen marching bands, more than 100 floats, and giant helium balloons to delight the 80,000 spectators who will line the parade route. In Sevierville, Santa himself steals the show at the 50th annual Christmas Parade on December 1, 2012. Bands, baton twirlers, pageant winners, and plenty of floats take to the streets of this historic village to celebrate the season with a good old-fashioned hometown parade. Too often, the hustle and bustle of the season means we don’t take time to truly enjoy it with family and friends. This year, savor the hospitality and beauty of small-town holiday celebrations, and make some Christmas memories your kids will remember for a lifetime.