PIGEON FORGE, TN - Welcome the holiday season with an unforgettable evening at the **2026 Winterfest Kickoff Celebration** in Pigeon Forge! Enjoy festive entertainment, delicious food, family-friendly activities, and the dazzling launch of the city’s Winterfest season.

Winterfest is an annual tradition celebrated throughout the cities surrounding the Great Smoky Mountains. From early November through January, the foothills come alive with dazzling light displays along scenic roadsides and in unique locations throughout the area. A guided lights tour is the perfect way to discover them all.

The excitement begins in November with festive kickoff events, where communities officially flip the switch and illuminate the season. Depending on when you visit, you can browse holiday markets, enjoy live bluegrass music, watch a Christmas parade, or bring the kids to meet Santa and capture a memorable holiday photo.

Winterfest offers more than beautiful lights—it’s an ideal winter getaway for families and groups of all ages. Challenge your friends to laser tag, explore an arcade with virtual reality games, attend a holiday show, or spend the afternoon shopping for unique gifts and sweet treats.

When it’s time to warm up, enjoy a delicious meal at one of the area’s many restaurants, serving everything from Southern comfort food to family favorites like pizza and barbecue.

Celebrate the start of the holiday season in Pigeon Forge at the 2026 Winterfest Kickoff Celebration! The event takes place on Friday, November 13 at Patriot Park (236 Old Mill Ave, Pigeon Forge, TN). Activities will start at 4:00 pm and run until 8:00 pm.

Event Highlights

- **11 a.m.–8 p.m.:** Explore the **Wonders of Light Christmas Market** at Patriot Park, an all-new open-air market featuring craft vendors, unique gifts and festive shopping.
- **4 p.m.:** Sample delicious bites at **Taste of the Town**, featuring free samples from Pigeon Forge restaurants while supplies last.
- **4–8 p.m.:** Visit Santa and his live reindeer, enjoy outdoor ice skating, bounce houses and fun activities for kids.
- **5:15 p.m.:** Enjoy the bluegrass sounds of **Jimbo Whaley & Greenbrier**.
- **6:30 p.m.:** Dance and sing along with headliner **The Sound**.
- **Following the concert:** Cap off the night with a spectacular **fireworks display**!

All entertainment is free, and complimentary parking is available in the city’s Municipal and Mountain lots off Teaster Lane. Bring your family and friends and experience the magic, music and merriment of Winterfest in Pigeon Forge!