A Look at Tennessee Events to Wrap Up the Year

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.

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.