Forget the snow globes and Hallmark movies (well, not really, bring those too!), Gatlinburg throws a Christmas celebration that's bigger, brighter, and bolder than anything you'll find under your tree!  Come December, the town transforms into a dazzling winter wonderland, with the Fantasy of Lights Christmas Parade as its crown jewel. This isn't your typical small-town holiday procession; the Christmas parade in Gatlinburg, Tennessee, is a full-blown spectacle of twinkling lights, festive music, and enough holiday cheer to power Santa's sleigh for a whole year!

Know Before You Go!

For almost 50 years, the Annual Fantasy of Lights Christmas Parade in Gatlinburg paints the town red, white, green, and gold each year on the first Friday in December starting at 7:30 PM. More than 80,000 people come to view the award-winning parade, which features lighted floats, marching bands, giant balloons, and And, to top it all off, Santa Claus himself always makes a grand appearance, spreading holiday cheer to all! This parade is recognized as one of the “Top 20 Events in the Southeast” and hailed as one of the best Christmas parades in America by USA Today. The festivities are broadcasted on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day on television stations in over 38 markets throughout the United States and streamed to over 150 million households so even if you can't make it to the parade, you can watch on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. Gatlinburg shines bright during the holidays, allowing people to experience a magical Smoky Mountain Christmas.

The parade route marches through downtown Gatlinburg, providing a beautiful mountain town setting. This festive parade also boasts past Grand Marshals like the Budweiser Clydesdales, Die Another Day" actress Rachel Grant, Academy of Country Music Award Winner Mark Wills, platinum-selling artist-songwriter Canaan Smith, 5-time BBQ World Champion Myron Mixon, and East Tennessee singer-songwriter Janelle Arthur, Hannah Dasher, Alyvia Alyn Lind and many more! The party kicks off at the Baskins Creek Bypass on East Parkway and marches its way through the heart of Downtown Gatlinburg where it ends at traffic light #10 near the entrance to Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

Planning Tips for a Memorable Parade Experience

Ready to soak up those festive feelings? Here's how to make the most of your parade experience with these helpful tips:

Arrive Early

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women waiting for christmas parade
As one of the largest parades in the Smokies with over 80,000 people coming each year to view the award-winning parade, be sure to arrive early to get your prime viewing spot along the parade route. Since this is a popular event, the sidewalks fill up quickly. Bring a blanket and a lawn chair to stay cozy while the action unfolds. Feel free to set up early and secure your spot for this grand event.

VIP Grandstand Seating

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VIP Grandstand seats christmas parade

Want a guaranteed seat with a prime view? Consider purchasing Grandstand VIP tickets! These tickets offer bleacher seating in the TV zone (near the beginning of the parade route) and come with a commemorative Gatlinburg embroidered Santa hat.

Stay Warm

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couple christmas parade seating

December evenings in the mountains can be chilly, so dress in layers. Think festive sweaters, warm hats, and maybe even some fuzzy socks. The more festive the better! You may even get your photo taken for use on the city’s socials or be featured on TV broadcast on 100 stations on Christmas Eve and Day which is streamed to over 150 million households!

Park and Ride

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new Trolley downtown
The road closes for the parade early, but luckily, Gatlinburg has over 4,000 parking spots available and if you’re staying in one of Gatlinburg’s hotels you’ll have free parking. Consider parking early in the day and using the free Gatlinburg Trolley to avoid traffic congestion and get around Gatlinburg easier.

Be Patient

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fantasy of lights christmas parade
The parade lasts around an hour, rain or shine. With the crowds and excitement, remember to be patient and courteous to your fellow parade-goers. 'Tis the season for good cheer, after all.

Capture the Memories

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Fantasy of lights christmas parade

Don't forget your camera – you'll want the perfect shot for this year’s family Christmas card!

More Holiday Cheer in Gatlinburg

While the Fantasy of Lights Christmas Parade is our seasonal highlight, Gatlinburg keeps the holiday spirit burning bright all season long. Millions of twinkling lights illuminate the town as part of the Winter Magic celebration, transforming it into a scene that's, well, pretty darn magical!

Looking for more holiday fun? Here are a few ideas:

Want to discover more activities to embrace the holiday cheer in Gatlinburg? Check out our events calendar for the latest seasonal happenings and celebrations!