Things to Do in Pigeon Forge in December 2024: 12 Festive Activities
Stunning ice formations, fat snowflakes, and holiday lights that would make Mrs. Claus proud. There’s no denying the eternal allure of Pigeon Forge in December. From 1900s-inspired Christmas decorations at the Titanic Museum to moments of serene solitude in the Great Smoky National Park, you’ll never have to wonder what is there to do in Pigeon Forge in December.
Follow along to discover the very best things to do in Pigeon Forge in December.
Piping hot cups of spiced apple cider, frozen waterfalls, and country-tinged Christmas Festivals. Pigeon Forge pulls out all the stops for this special time of year.
Take in a heartwarming Christmas show of holiday hits and gospel hymns at the Grand Majestic Theater, or dive headfirst into beloved Pigeon Forge December events such as Winterfest.
Whether you enjoy the rugged adventure of the great outdoors or would rather indulge in cozy pajamas and a good book in your cabin, Pigeon Forge in December is pure perfection.
Weather in Pigeon Forge Tennessee in December
Oh, the weather outside is not so frightful! Pigeon Forge TN in December may get a bad rap, but this Smoky Mountain oasis actually boasts pretty tolerable winter temperatures. Visitors planning to spend the month of December in Pigeon Forge can expect average low temperatures in the 20-30 degree range and average high temperatures in the 40-50 degree range.
However, Tennessee weather can be fickle! As always, we highly recommend checking the weather a week or two before your stay. Before you start packing that bag, you’ll probably be googling ‘does it snow in Pigeon Forge in December?’ The number of flurries you’ll see in Pigeon Forge highly depends on where you’ll stay.
Higher mountain elevations, such as LeConte, will most likely see snow sticking. However, simply wandering around downtown, you’ll likely encounter nothing more than a few flurries. On average, the city sees less than 2 inches of snowfall in December.
Psst.. ready to ditch your down jacket for some drama? Enjoy the fantastic flair of a Pigeon Forge Variety show while you warm up inside.
Does Pigeon Forge get snow in December? The best way to guarantee a White Christmas is to keep tabs on the weather prior to your arrival.
Cozy up in a Cabin in Pigeon Forge
Can’t wait to take advantage of all of the wintery things to do in December? Secure your reservation to this wonderland of Smoky Mountain majesty when you book any of our premier Pigeon Forge Hotels.
From sultry soaks in hot tubs overlooking staggering mountain vistas to family-friendly resorts featuring water parks, we provide lodgings for every type of getaway. Relish the winter season in a rustic lodge, or enjoy a roaring wood-burning fire curled up in your cabin.
Save those hard-earned dollars for even more stocking stuffers when you spring for a Smoky Mountains Christmas Package. By bundling your top-tier Pigeon Forge accommodations and activities, you’ll squeeze in even more Tennessee fun.
Things to do in Pigeon Forge Tennessee in December
Pack that puffer jacket and pull on those mittens because it’s time to tackle the best things to do in Pigeon Forge TN in December. Whether you’re craving a heart-pounding hike in one of the country’s best national parks or want to chuckle along to the brawling Hatfield and McCoys, there’s never any shortage of things to do in Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg in December.
*Please note that this is by no means an exhaustive list of things to do in Sevierville TN in December or things to do in Pigeon Forge Winter, but rather a roundup of our most beloved winter activities and attractions.
Take a Winter Hike
You might not spot Frosty the Snowman, but the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is transformed into a genuine winter wonderland in the colder months. Adventurous visitors will do well to pack their hiking boots, as the park boasts many open trails well into December.
Gaze in awe at icy cascades, snowy mountaintops, and rugged mountain crests as you take on any of the following trails:
- Laurel Falls
- Rainbow Falls
- Alum Cave Trail
- Porters Creek Trail
- And more!
Struggling to keep your curious kids entertained? Don’t let the winter blues hinder your Pigeon Forge plans. Instead, engage mini minds when you purchase tickets to any of our interactive Pigeon Forge attractions in December.
See a Christmas Show
Buttery biscuits, roasted BBQ pork loin, and dazzling equestrian stunts. Get your fill of both drama and scrumptious Southern home cooking when you add a dinner theater production to your December itinerary. A thrilling live performance is a perfect way to prime yourself for the holiday season in Pigeon Forge:
Tis the Season
Got a feeling it’s going to be a Blue Christmas? Raise your spirits and inject some Rock and Roll into your holiday plans when you settle in for a riveting Tis the Season show. Don your favorite Santa hat and get ready to feel the joy of the Jolliest season.
This 1.5-hour musical spectacular features themed costumes, classic and contemporary holiday hits, and Christmas carol sing-a-long. Admire the stunning sets of the Grand Majestic theater as your ears are treated to the velvety soft vocals of Gospel hymns and holiday hits from Elvis.
Feeling peckish? Plan to arrive early, as the theater offers options for dine-in meals, appetizers, and cocktails.
Hatfield & McCoy Dinner Feud
Grab that banjo and get ready for some holly, high-stakes feudin’ fun with the Hatfield & McCoy Christmas Disaster Dinner Feud. This rambling and rowdy dinner & show is sure to leave you laughing till you’re as red as Kris Kringle’s face!
Think your family is as nutty as a fruitcake? Have no fear, as the Hatfield and McCoy’s jaw-dropping antics and stunts will put your in-law’s squabbling to shame. Enjoy a special Yuletide show with seasonal songs, country comedy, and dancing.
Audience members best bring their appetites, as their ticket includes a sumptuous, all-you-can-eat Southern Homestyle feast featuring fried chicken, pulled pork BBQ, buttery biscuits, and Granny’s sugary sweet dessert.
Christmas at Dolly Parton’s Stampede
No one executes Christmas quite like the Queen of Country herself. Harness that holiday spirit when you watch the electric equestrian feats and nativity scenes of Dolly Parton’s Stampede. Christmas at the Stampede is a full-court affair featuring ethereal angels, rousing carols, elves, and more.
Discover the true meaning of the season through the tale of three kings on their way to Bethlehem. Or, giggle in glee as Santa’s spritely helpers compete in North and South Pole games.
Indulge your craving for home cooking as you sample Whole Rotisserie Chicken and creamy vegetable soup. From St. Nick’s sleigh filled high with goodies to second helpings of Dolly’s special dessert, this Yuletide Stampede can’t be beaten.
Pirates Voyage Dinner & Show
Argh matey! Who says swashbuckling fun isn’t for winter? Ring in December with Blackbeard’s crew. The Pirates Voyage Dinner & Show invites all landlubbers on an epic journey of the high seas. Witness mermaids, acrobatics, animals, and more as you sample buttery buccaneer biscuits and Cracklin pan-fried chicken.
Sail away from the boring dinner shows of your past when you soak in this pirate production. Marvel at pyrotechnics, a hidden tropical lagoon, and battling crews. Come early so all of your first mates can participate in pirate makeovers.
Soak in the Sights
Unparalleled Sevier County panoramas, French Broad River scenery, and llamas, oh my! Make your every winter fantasy come true when you take in the sights of Pigeon Forge from an entirely new vantage point:
More sightseeing, yes, please! Savor every last view, vista, or aerial landscape when you discover the magic of our other Pigeon Forge Sightseeing Tours.
Scenic Helicopter Tours
Take to the skies above for an unforgettable journey through the Smokies. Scenic Helicopter Tours allow you to uncover the natural wonder of Pigeon Forge from over 1,200 feet. Choose from various tour options, including French Broad River, Lake View, Mountain Valley, and Ridge Runner.
Each helicopter can accommodate up to six guests and serves up numerous photo opportunities. Listen up as your knowledgeable guide regales you with local history, facts, and geography. Have that camera fully charged, so you can take advantage of superior angles of the Douglas Dam, Lake, and the Chilhowee Mountain Range.
Smoky Mountain Llama Treks
Nothing brings a smile to our faces faster than a wholesome cuddle with a furry friend. Enjoy the serotonin boost of palling around with these adorable pack animals when you book a very special Smoky Mountain Llama Trek. Your leisurely outdoor adventure will last between 1-2.5 hours and let you discover the mountain trails, babbling brooks, and native flora.
Ideal for both the avid outdoorsman and the novice hiker, these tours let the llamas carry your gear as you savor the Pigeon Forge topography. Don’t forget to pack some trail mix and llama-friendly snacks, as these fluffy creatures love a good oatmeal cookie or graham cracker.
Pink Jeep Tours – Smoky Mountains
Ditch the winter elements and instead take on the hidden gems of Pigeon Forge Gatlinburg by Jeep. Pink Jeep Tours delivers a personalized escape based on your specific preferences. Leave the driving to the experts as you devour fascinating information regarding the area’s geology, history, flora, and fauna.
Uncover the secrets behind one of the oldest mountain ranges on earth as you make your way through highlights such as Newfound Gap, the Foothills Parkway, and Roaring Fork. Your friendly guide will even help you capture the perfect group photo to forever commemorate your 4×4 off-road escape.
Curious about what to do in Pigeon Forge in December? Keep reading for some more awesome ideas! Believe us, the excitement is just getting started!
Pigeon Forge Attractions and Events in December
Growing icebergs, an avalanche of twinkling lights, and rides aboard the Dollywood Express. From fantastic fireworks to period costumes, Pigeon Forge in December just hits differently:
Shadrack’s Christmas Wonderland
Looking for a larger-than-life Christmas experience? Prime your peepers for an overflow of Christmas passion when you participate in Shadrack’s Christmas Wonderland. This epic drive-through performance features synchronized lights, music, and massive illustrated art.
Located in Sevierville, TN, guests can expect an immersive adventure complete with shrink rays, Santa, and giant presents. Tickets must be purchased ahead of time, so move quickly to secure your slot on this super-sized escape.
Cue up that Bing Crosby because it’s time to set the mood for a Pigeon Forge Christmas. Families of all shapes and sizes will fall head over heels for the dazzling lights and down-home charm of Christmas in the Smoky Mountains.
Titanic Museum
Iceberg ahead! Step into the chilling shoes of a real-life Titanic passenger when you visit Pigeon Forge’s premier museum attraction. The Titanic Museum is a one-of-a-kind educational experience that lets you learn about the world’s most famous luxury liner.
Browse through over 400 artifacts, or embrace your inner Rose as you walk down a $1 million replica of a Grand Staircase. Feel freezing 28-degree water, or muster up some muscle to shovel coal in the Boiler Room. Visitors during December can even pay their respects to the poor lost souls of the maiden voyage with the Titanic Museum Christmas Honors RMS Titanic.
In addition to remembering these men, women, and children, the ship will be aglow with twinkling lights, festive costumes, and dazzling Edwardian decorations.
Winterfest Lights
Is that the pitter-patter of reindeer hooves? The lights of Pigeon Forge’s Winterfest shine so bright that even Santa and Rudolph have pulled over for a pit stop. Eastern Tennessee is starting to look a lot like the North Pole, thanks to the incandescent glow of five million lights.
Merrymakers of all ages will fawn over intricate light displays of animals native to the Smoky Mountains, dancing snowflakes, and oversized flowers. Beginning on November 9, and lasting through February, winter-minded visitors can scout out prominent light masterpieces everywhere, from Patriot Park to the Riverwalk Greenway.
For a full map of every last Winterfest light display, click here.
Dollywood’s Smoky Mountain Christmas
No wintery sojourn to the Great Smoky Mountains is complete without a visit to Dollywood. Welcome in sweater season with plenty of Pigeon Forge pizzaz when making a plan to see the dazzling Dollywood lights. In addition, visit favorite rides such as Wild Eagle and Blazing Fury.
Dollywood’s award-winning Smoky Mountain Christmas will run from November 4 through January 6, 2024. From charming country Christmas ornaments to more than 5 million twinkling lights, there’s no denying the appeal of this enchanting holiday homage.
Immerse yourself in a winter wonderland of furry friends, 12 ft tall Christmas trees, and live caroling excitement. Savor sweet seasonal treats, sing along to ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas, or find out if you’ve made Santa’s nice list. Be sure to bring that camera, as you’ll be dying to document the many glowing hues of Glacier Ridge, Santa’s Village, and Craftsman’s Valley.
Jolene, Jolene! We are begging you to take advantage of these budget-saving Dollywood Packages when you plan your Pigeon Forge trip.
Sugary sweet Tennessee charm, the promise of snowfall, and plenty of outdoor escapades. If you can brave a smidge of winter chill, a visit to Pigeon Forge just might be your best winter retreat yet!
Make your animal lovers’ dreams come true with a unique Smoky Mountain Llama hike, or obtain incredible snapshots of illuminated 12 Days of Christmas light displays.
Rustle up some Appalachian attitude when you conquer Glacier Ridge at Dollywood, or perhaps just load up on hearty holiday dishes like Pork Belly Skillet and Gingerbread Funnel Cake.
Spoil your travel companions with a spellbinding scenic helicopter tour, or rest your weary winter legs as you enjoy a dinner theater show.
Ready to take on winter in the ‘Center of fun’ the Smokies? Don’t hesitate; book your Pigeon Forge winter vacation today!
What are Your Favorite Things to Do in December in Pigeon Forge?
Did we miss any of the top Pigeon Forge things to do in December?
Tell us in the comments below!
