Welcome to the holiday glow of the Smoky Mountain Winterfest season in Sevier County, Tennessee. From downtown Pigeon Forge and quaint Sevierville to festive Gatlinburg, this time of year offers a spectacular blend of lights, entertainment, local culture and real-estate charm.
As your local real-estate resource and mountain-lifestyle guide, I’m excited to bring you the kickoff dates and top activities for each city so you can plan content, visits or your next move with full festive flair.

Pigeon Forge – Thursday, Nov 6, 2025 (3:00 PM)

Kickoff Location: Patriot Park, 186 Old Mill Ave., Pigeon Forge.
Featured Activities:

• Family-friendly entertainment begins at 3:00 PM with live music and holiday vendors.
• A special tribute to veterans and live performances from the Pigeon Forge High School Choir and the U.S. Army 101st Airborne (Air Assault) band.
• At dusk: the illumination of over six million lights throughout the city and a grand fireworks display to officially launch the winter season.
  Why it matters: Pigeon Forge sets the tone for the season. If you’re a buyer or seller, this is a great time to highlight the town’s move-in-ready charm or investment potential during peak visitor season.

Gatlinburg – Thursday, Nov 6, 2025

Kickoff Location: Downtown Gatlinburg, Shade Tree Parking Lot/Convention Center area.
Featured Activities:

• The annual Winter Magic Kickoff & Chili Cook‑off: local restaurants and organizations serve up dozens of chili recipes in a festive sampling event.
• Live music performances and the ceremonial lighting of millions of holiday lights all through downtown.
  Why it matters: Gatlinburg offers both the festive event vibe and the natural beauty of the Smokies. Great storyline for relocation clients who want both tourism energy and mountain serenity.

Sevierville – Friday, Nov 7, 2025

Kickoff Location: Sevierville Municipal Complex, 110 Gary Wade Blvd.
Featured Activities:

• The “Music, Lights & Magic” event. Free admission, starts at 3:00 PM, with kids’ games, balloon show, live music, larger-than-life characters and a fireworks finale.
• The broader Winterfest lights and activities run from November 7, 2025 through February 16, 2026 across Sevierville’s Parkway and surrounding areas.
  Why it matters: Sevierville presents the more relaxed hometown-festive feel. Ideal for clients seeking a residential or investment home outside the busier resort corridor.

Contact Penny Cowell at Monarch Realty, Pigeon Forge