By Shelia Ogle © 2012, All Rights Reserved
As the air begins to turn cold and the first tentative snow
flurries dust the highest mountain peaks, Pigeon Forge,
Gatlinburg, and Sevierville, TN are busy preparing for a magical
event. Miles of twinkling lights are strung, streets are draped
in red and green, and everywhere people are bustling about,
getting ready for Winterfest.
Beginning in early November, these quaint mountain villages are
transformed into fairy kingdoms where everything glitters, music
surrounds you, and treasured family memories are made. If you’re
looking for a one-of-a-kind getaway this winter, this family
friendly celebration has something to offer everyone.
Getting in the Holiday Spirit
The holiday shopping season may not officially begin until
Thanksgiving, but you’ll discover plenty of unique treasures in
Pigeon Forge during Winterfest. Hundreds of talented artisans
call the Great Smoky Mountains home, creating and selling
magnificent works of art in nearly any medium you can imagine.
Colorful quilts, exquisite jewelry, hand-turned bowls, and
beautiful wood carvings are just a few of the crafts on display.
Spend a day browsing in the shops along the world-famous Arts &
Crafts Community Trail, and you’ll find the perfect gift for
nearly everyone on your shopping list.
While any season is a good time to visit Pigeon Forge, Winterfest
lets you see a side of the city you’ve never seen before. More
than five million tiny lights turn the town into a fairytale
kingdom. Hop aboard the Fun Time Trolley at dusk for a guided
tour, and enjoy learning about the history while enjoying the
sights. Everywhere you look, trees and storefronts are draped
with glittering lights in celebration of the season. Grownups and
kids alike will love the festive atmosphere and old-fashioned
holiday spirit that blankets the town.
Family Friendly Christmas Shows
Kids of all ages will want to catch the spectacular Christmas
show at Pigeon Forge’s Smoky Mountain Opry. A living nativity
tells the story of the first Christmas, talented singers perform
your favorite holiday music, and Santa makes an appearance with
his reindeer. You can’t help but feel the spirit of Christmas
after seeing this entertaining show.
Everyone Loves a Parade
Gatlinburg and Sevierville both kick off the season with their
much-anticipated Christmas parades. Make plans to be in downtown
Gatlinburg on December 7, 2012 for the Fantasy of Lights Parade.
This spectacular event begins at 7:30pm and features a dozen
marching bands, more than 100 floats, and giant helium balloons
to delight the 80,000 spectators who will line the parade route.
In Sevierville, Santa himself steals the show at the 50th annual
Christmas Parade on December 1, 2012. Bands, baton twirlers,
pageant winners, and plenty of floats take to the streets of this
historic village to celebrate the season with a good
old-fashioned hometown parade.
Too often, the hustle and bustle of the season means we don’t
take time to truly enjoy it with family and friends. This year,
savor the hospitality and beauty of small-town holiday
celebrations, and make some Christmas memories your kids will
remember for a lifetime.
Planning your visit? Contact Heartland Rentals today for a wide
selection of Gatlinburg cabin
rentals in all sizes and prices. Click to
http://www.HeartlandRentals.com for info and reservations.
