New Year’s Eve Ball Drop

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.

Celebrate the New Year in Gatlinburg!

Welcome to the New Year in Gatlinburg, Tennessee! Around this season, the snow is falling and the leaves are gone, but the holiday spirit is alive in the Smokies and is exciting everyone around. Join in the celebrations and bring your loved ones with you to enjoy the festivities. At the stroke of midnight on January 1st the ball in Gatlinburg drops for the thousands of visitors who come from all over. Since 1987 The Gatlinburg Winterfest’s Ball Drop has become one of the largest organized New Year's Eve events in the nation. With fireworks and live music to entertain everyone, this event is one you will never forget and will be a memory for you and your loved ones to forever enjoy together. 

A Few Tips

You will want to arrive several hours early as parking fills up quickly. But don’t worry, there is plenty to do in the meantime! Beginning at 11 p.m. the roads surrounding the ball drop will close, giving visitors enough space to enjoy the festivities. At 10 p.m. bands perform live to bring in the New Year along with plenty of other fun activities.

Enjoy Every Moment

The ball drop is not the only Winterfest festivity you should look forward to though. When you are coming up to celebrate the New Year, don’t forget to take a drive or a walk to see the beautiful Christmas lights that decorate Gatlinburg each year. Another fun activity is the Snowpeople Scavenger Hunt which you can participate in by downloading the Visit Gatlinburg app. With so much to participate in you will never be bored. Prepare to launch the New Year with your loved ones and with a joyful celebration in Gatlinburg!