by Erica Cardinal
Throughout the winter, Pigeon Forge glistens with millions of gorgeous lights that create an air of Christmas magic unmatched by any other location in the south. The lights are part of their season-long Winterfest celebration, which brings the holidays to life all throughout the Smokies.
All of the Winterfest light displays are free to see and most can be viewed right from the comfort of your car. These Pigeon Forge Christmas lights are sure to delight adults and children alike!
Before you hit the road, you can stop at one of the area’s many bakeries or cafes to grab a deliciously steamy cup of hot chocolate and some tasty treats. Food makes all the things to do in Pigeon Forge this holiday season just a little bit sweeter.
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Free Pigeon Forge Christmas Lights Displays and Winterfest
Below you’ll discover all the top spots for viewing the Winterfest lights in Pigeon Forge. The first 5 options are completely free. At the end of the article, there are also 2 premium options that will knock your socks off!
You May Also Like:
- 6 Incredible Gatlinburg Christmas Lights Displays That Will Leave You Awestruck (coming soon)
- 10 Amazing Pigeon Forge Christmas Shows That Will Rock Your Holiday
Patriot Park
- Dates:Friday before Thanksgiving through Presidents’ Day
- Cost:FREE
Patriot Park is home to one of the largest collection of light displays in all of Winterfest. Most of the lights at this location are very patriotic and pay homage to the various branches of the military. Displays include a fighter jet, tributes to each branch of the military, and a patriotic bald eagle flying over a picturesque river. There are also iconic American landmarks like the statue of liberty and the golden gate bridge.
The Parkway
- Dates:Friday before Thanksgiving through Presidents’ Day
- Cost:FREE
The main Pigeon Forge Parkway is lined with tons of light displays. As you drive along, you’ll be treated to iconic scenes from the classic Christmas song The 12 Days Of Christmas. There are also adorable Smoky Mountain themed displays including animals, log cabins, a waterfall, and forest foliage.
Teaster Lane
- Dates:Friday before Thanksgiving through Presidents’ Day
- Cost:FREE
Teaster Lane boasts over 6 different light displays, with it’s biggest feature being it’s large collection of twinkling Mother Goose rhymes.
The Island
- Dates:November – January
- Cost:Free to window shop + coupons available for shopping and restaurants
This outdoor family-fun center boasts amazing shops, restaurants, amusem*nts, and a free outdoor light show year round.
During the holiday season, The Island takes it to the next level with stunning holiday decor and lights, including a gigantic Christmas tree. There is even a tree lighting ceremony to kick off the season!
The Incredible Christmas Place
- Dates:Year-Round
- Cost:Free to window shop + tons of free coupon books for discounted purchases
If you want to be engulfed in the holiday spirit, The Incredible Christmas Place can make it happen. This place is dripping with Christmas magic year-round, but it ups the ante during the Christmas season with extra lights and decor. In addition to the stunning decorations there are great places to snap a few family pics, delicious goodies, and Christmas ornaments galore.
Paid Christmas Light Displays in Pigeon Forge
6. Shadrack’s Christmas Wonderland
- Dates:mid-November 2020 – early-January 2021
- Cost:$25 – $100 per car
Shadrack’s is a drive-thru animated light display set to festive holiday music. You can listen to the songs right on your radio. In addition to the fantastic light show, you can visit their family-fun zone with games, activities, and visits with Santa. Though technically in Sevierville, it’s just a short drive from Pigeon Forge.
7. Smoky Mountain Christmas
- Dates:mid-November 2020 – early January 2021
- Cost:starting at $79/adults, $69/kids ages 4-9 (includes full-day park admission)
At the annual theme park awards, Dollywood’s Smoky Mountain Christmas has won the title of “Best Christmas Event” 12 years in a row! So, you know it MUST be fantastic!
With hundreds of displays and millions of lights, guests will be treated to a variety of winter and Christmas themes, including penguins, polar bears, and a musical light show featuring a 50 foot Christmas tree with digital animations! You may even see some snow!
More East TN Family Fun
- Incredible Winter Hikes in the Smoky Mountains
- 50 Board Games That Make Amazing Christmas Gifts
- Winterfest Map (from the tourism board)
Erica Cardinal
Erica has lived in East TN for over 9 years. She enjoys exploring this gorgeous region with her husband and 3 lively children. As a former teacher turned homeschool mom, she loves finding fun and affordable activities the entire family will love, especially if they cultivate a love for learning!
