A Look at Tennessee Events to Wrap Up the Year

There’s nothing quite like a cozy cabin getaway in November. The air is crisp, the trees are bursting with color, and the Smoky Mountains make the perfect backdrop for a relaxing retreat. Whether you’re planning a romantic weekend or a quiet escape with friends, here’s how to make the most of your cozy cabin stay this fall.

1. Settle In and Get Cozy

Start by creating that classic cabin atmosphere. Light a fire in the fireplace, curl up with a blanket, and enjoy a good book or conversation by the glow. Make use of the cabin’s amenities, play a round of pool or board games, watch a movie on the big screen, or soak in the private hot tub while taking in the cool autumn air. With a fully equipped kitchen and outdoor grill, you can cook up a hearty dinner and enjoy your meal on the deck surrounded by the beauty of fall.

2. Explore the Great Outdoors

When you’re ready to venture outside, take advantage of the season’s stunning scenery. Drive along scenic routes like Cades Cove Loop Road or the Blue Ridge Parkway for breathtaking views of fall foliage. Go for a hike in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, just start early to avoid crowds. You can also visit a local pumpkin patch, explore Gatlinburg’s charming downtown, or stop by the Smoky Mountain Harvest Festival for crafts and seasonal fun.

3. Plan Ahead for a Perfect Trip

November is a busy month in the Smokies, so book your cabin and activities early. For a quieter experience, try visiting midweek instead of the weekend. And don’t forget to plan your meals and stock up on groceries before you arrive so you can focus on relaxing and enjoying your autumn escape.

If you're ready to take the plunge or are just interested in where you should stay this fall click here for the best autumn cabins around.

There’s never a bad time to book a getaway with Bear Camp Cabin Rentals. Our Smoky Mountain cabins have served as a home base for countless family vacations and romantic getaways for years. If you’re trying to figure out when to book your Gatlinburg or Pigeon Forge cabin rental, look at the lineup of memorable Tennessee events still on the horizon.

A Guide to Entertaining Events and Festivals

Taking place the Thursday before Halloween, Halloween Spooktacular in Pigeon Forge is a must-visit if you’re on a family vacation. Head to the Pigeon Forge Community Center for trick or treating.
Plan a visit to Dollywood to check out Great Pumpkin LumiNights. Running from the end of September through October, this annual event features thousands of jack-o-lanterns and massive pumpkin displays.
Another fun fall event at Dollywood is the Harvest Festival. Taking place until Oct. 28, this annual event features talented musicians, fall treats, and more.
During the Gatlinburg Harvest Festival, the town of Gatlinburg becomes decked out in fall decor. Local businesses compete for Best Harvest Decorations, while visitors can go on a scarecrow scavenger hunt for unique figurines scattered throughout downtown.
Purchase tickets for the Gatlinburg Winter Magic & Chili Cookoff. Taking place at the beginning of November, this celebration gives you a chance to sample mouth-watering homemade chili while listening to live music.
Pigeon Forge’s Winterfest Driving Tour of Lights is one of the most anticipated events of the holiday season. From November to mid-February, drive along the Pigeon Forge Parkway to view millions of holiday lights.
For over five decades, Gatlinburg’s Festival of Trees has taken over the W.L. Mills Conference Center in November. View festive trees and wreaths, let your kids play in the craft area, or have their picture taken with Santa.
There’s nothing like Christmas at Dollywood. Smoky Mountain Christmas, which runs from November through the beginning of January, adds a bit of holiday sparkle to the park’s rides and attractions.
Gatlinburg Winter Magic offers you another chance to view magical light displays between November and mid-Februry. In addition to holiday lights, this annual event includes a snowpeople scavenger hunt.
Taking place at the beginning of December, the Fantasy of Lights Christmas Parade in Gatlinburg is a can’t-miss event. Find your spot along the route to watch the festive lineup of marching bands, floats, and holiday balloons.
Go for a stroll through illuminated displays at Skyland Ranch during the Festival of Lights. Running through mid-January, your journey starts with a scenic chairlift ride to the top of the ranch.
Say goodbye and hello to the new with Gatlinburg’s New Year’s Eve Fireworks & Ball Drop. Witness a colorful display and countdown to the ball drop that marks the closing of another year.
The Island in Pigeon Forge is known for its own New Year’s Eve Celebration. The free event includes a concert and fireworks display the whole family will love.

Find Your Perfect Smoky Mountain Cabin Rental

Timing your Smoky Mountains vacation around any of the local Tennessee events listed above is an excellent way to add a bit of extra fun to your getaway. Before purchasing tickets to any of the events listed above, be sure to take a look at our list of Xplorie partners for ways to save. Be close to the festivities while having a peaceful oasis to call home by renting a cabin from Bear Camp Cabin Rentals. Our selection of well-appointed vacation rentals includes unique treehouses, pet-friendly cabins, rentals with mountain views, and more. Call 1-800-705-6346 for help reserving your year-end escape.