December 2015 in Gatlinburg, Tennessee, was a magical time where the town's unique blend of natural beauty, festive events, and holiday spirit transformed it into a winter wonderland that left a lasting impression. Here are the five key reasons why Gatlinburg sparkled during that memorable month:
1. Winterfest Lights and Decorations
Gatlinburg’s Winterfest, an annual event, reached its peak in December 2015. The town was adorned with millions of twinkling lights, creating a mesmerizing spectacle:
- The Parkway: A 2.1-mile scenic drive lined with Christmas trees, light tunnels, and themed light displays showcasing biblical scenes, nature, and local culture.
- Local Attractions: Even attractions like Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies had special holiday light shows reflecting on the water, creating a dazzling effect.
- Smoky Mountain Winter Wonderland: This event featured an ice skating rink, where the lights of Gatlinburg set the perfect backdrop for a romantic skate.
⭐ Note: Winterfest typically lasts from November to February, ensuring months of festive fun.
2. Smoky Mountain Christmas at Dollywood
Just a short drive from Gatlinburg, Dollywood’s Smoky Mountain Christmas was in full swing:
- Over 5 Million Lights: The entire park was illuminated, with new displays each year showcasing traditional holiday scenes and southern charm.
- Parades: The nighttime Christmas parades featured handcrafted floats, elaborate costumes, and thousands of lights.
- Christmas Carolers: Performances by local choirs and musicians added to the festive atmosphere.
- Food and Drink: Holiday treats like eggnog and gingerbread were available, with special dining options for a unique holiday experience.
🎄 Note: Dollywood’s Christmas event runs from mid-November to early January, offering a long season of holiday cheer.
3. Great Smoky Mountains National Park Activities
Although winter brings cooler temperatures, the park offers a serene and snow-dusted backdrop for various activities:
- Wildlife Watching: Deer, black bears preparing for hibernation, and perhaps even the elusive bald eagle could be spotted.
- Hiking: Trails like Alum Cave Bluffs Trail or Trillium Gap Trail to Grotto Falls are less crowded, providing a peaceful winter hike.
- Sledding: While the park itself doesn’t allow for commercial sledding, nearby areas like Ober Gatlinburg offer sledding opportunities.
- Snowy Photo Ops: The snow-covered mountains create picturesque landscapes perfect for photography.
⛄ Note: Always check weather conditions before heading out as the park can be affected by sudden weather changes.
4. Festive Events and Shows
Gatlinburg in December hosts an array of holiday events and performances:
- Christmas Parade: Featuring Santa Claus, high school bands, and floats decked out in lights, the parade was a highlight of the holiday season.
- Winter Magic Tunes and Tales: Local theaters and restaurants held special holiday shows, from Christmas carols to dramatic productions.
- New Year’s Eve: The event in the parkway where people gathered to welcome the New Year with a spectacular ball drop and fireworks.
- Tree Lighting Ceremony: Held at the beginning of December, marking the official start of the holiday season.
🎉 Note: Early December is a great time to visit Gatlinburg to catch both the beginning of Winterfest and holiday events.
5. Food and Shopping
Holiday time in Gatlinburg wasn’t just about the sights but also the tastes and shopping experiences:
- Themed Menus: Restaurants offered special holiday menus, with items like peppermint hot chocolate, gingerbread lattes, and Christmas dinner options.
- Artisan Shops: Local crafts like handmade ornaments, quilts, and pottery made perfect gifts or mementos.
- Holiday Markets: Outdoor markets and pop-up shops sold everything from holiday treats to festive decorations.
- Farmers Markets: While less abundant in winter, they still offered locally grown produce and holiday-themed food products.
🍽 Note: Don’t miss out on trying the famous moonshine or local spirits as part of your holiday experience.
As the curtains closed on December 2015, Gatlinburg stood as a beacon of holiday cheer and winter beauty. The enchanting Winterfest lights, the cultural festivities at Dollywood, the serene national park, the vibrant local events, and the rich local food and shopping scene all painted a picture of a town that truly sparkled during the holiday season. Visiting Gatlinburg in December isn't just about witnessing the transformation of the town into a festive wonderland; it's about experiencing the warmth and community spirit that defines this magical destination in the heart of the Smoky Mountains.
What time does Winterfest start and end?
+
Winterfest typically starts in late November and runs until early February, with the lights being lit from dusk until 10 p.m.
Are the Smoky Mountains safe to visit in winter?
+
Yes, but it’s important to be prepared for weather changes. Dress warmly, and check road and trail conditions before venturing out.
What kind of accommodations are available in Gatlinburg?
+
Gatlinburg offers a range of accommodations from cozy cabins to hotels, bed and breakfasts, and luxury resorts, catering to all types of travelers.
