Gatlinburg Hosts the Only Thanksgiving Fireworks Show in the Country

The Smoky Mountains don’t just feel like a magical place, they really are a mystical destination. The phrase “old as the hills” rings true when you really dive into the old lore of the mountains. When you come to visit, take this otherworldly tour and investigate for yourself. Here are six of the Smokies’ best kept secrets.

1. Elkmont Trollbridge

Escape to a place that really feels like a glimpse into a mythical land. The Elkmont Trollbridge is a true hidden gem that only locals know about. Hike along the Little River Trail until you reach this spot. Covered in moss and mushrooms, the Trollbridge is perfect for capturing pictures or looking for hidden fantastical creatures.

2. House Of The Fairies

This whimsical spot is only a mile from downtown Gatlinburg yet it feels like you’ve been transported into another realm. Map to this magical place, then go out and explore. Here, you’ll find towering trees and moss covered logs and boulders. Then at the end of the trail you’ll see it...an arched doorway, that looks like it’s almost cut into the side of the hill, sits with a wooden ladder leaning against the frame. Step inside and find a cool spring, filled with water that tinkles like bells.

3. Synchronous Fireflies

The synchronized fireflies that come out every year like clockwork might be more science than magic but when you’re sitting among the trees and they begin to spark in unison, flickering in and out of sight, it feels like something otherworldly. This rare phenomenon is only seen in a few places in the world and The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is one of them.

4. Elkmont Ghost Town

Once a thriving vacation spot for the Knoxville elite, the Elkmont Ghost Town looks like a legend brought back to life. Recently restored, explore inside the homes and hike trails where you will find the remains of homes once occupied by Appalachian locals who would serve, supply and work in the town. This piece of history is frozen in time and feels like stepping back into the past.

There are many magical places in the Smokies and these are only four of them. Don’t stop here, continue to search for more mystical creatures and sprites living in the trees and hollows. To discover more, stay overnight in the mountains in a log cabin. This cabin is even called Magical Moments, which is exactly what you’ll find when you visit the Smoky Mountains.

Thanksgiving is a time to spend time with the ones you love, enjoy a delicious home cooked meal, and…watch a fireworks display? Although it might sound a bit unusual, fireworks have become a beloved Thanksgiving tradition in the Great Smoky Mountains. Every year, the Titanic Museum Attraction in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee kicks off the holiday season with an unforgettable fireworks show. We’ve put together a convenient guide with everything you need to know about this one of a kind Thanksgiving event in Pigeon Forge.

Why does the Titanic Museum celebrate Thanksgiving with fireworks?

According to John Joslyn, the co-owner of the Titanic Museum, the Thanksgiving fireworks are “glowing tributes to the 2,208 passengers and crew who sailed on Titanic”. While the sinking of the Titanic was a great tragedy, there are also countless inspirational stories of passengers acting selflessly in the face of tremendous adversity. Joslyn considers fireworks to be the perfect way to “usher in a new Christmas season of hope and promise for all of us”.

Where and when will the Thanksgiving fireworks display take place?

The Thanksgiving fireworks will be held right at at the Titanic Museum Attraction, located at 2134 Parkway, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863. The show will begin at 7 p.m. on November 27, 2014.

What should I expect at the Titanic Museum’s fireworks show?

The Titanic Museum’s fireworks are the largest pyrotechnic display on the Parkway for the entire year! On Thanksgiving night, the sky will erupt with brilliant bursts of every color imaginable. This will be the third annual Thanksgiving show at the Titanic Museum, and each year, the fireworks get better and better.

In addition to the incredible fireworks, the Titanic Museum will also feature magical snow! Fresh powder will float down from the bow of the ship, transforming the attraction into a winter wonderland. In years past, Santa Claus has made a special appearance at the Thanksgiving evening festivities, so be sure to keep an eye open for Father Christmas.

What else is going on at the Titanic Museum during the holiday season?

From November 1 through December 31, 2014, the Titanic Museum will feature special holiday decorations! The entire ship will be decked out in authentic 1912 Christmas trimmings, including lights, trees, and more. The Titanic’s Grand Staircase is particularly breathtaking with its Edwardian period Christmas decorations.

John Joslyn, the museum’s co-owner, reflects “Every day, but especially during the holidays, we remember and honor the men, women and particularly children who sailed on the Titanic. At this special time, our guests truly experience what it was like onboard the ship in 1912, and how it might have looked on a Christmas voyage 102 years ago”.

To learn more about the Titanic Museum Attraction, visit its official website:www.titanicpigeonforge.com

Where should I stay close to this Thanksgiving event in Pigeon Forge?

Bear Camp offers a huge selection of excellent cabin rentals minutes away from the Titanic Museum. Our cabins have everything you need for a fantastic Thanksgiving, including fully furnished kitchens, toasty fireplaces, and spectacular mountain views. Check out our collection of two bedroom cabins in Pigeon Forge to start planning your holiday getaway!

Photo Credit: Epic Fireworks