If you’re planning a holiday escape this year for Thanksgiving, you’ll find few places that are as festive during the season as Gatlinburg and the Great Smoky Mountains. At the very start of November, entire sections of the town start the party off early by putting up Christmas lights and decorations around town. Because of this wonderful holiday spirit, there’s plenty of joy to be had around town, with all of the events you could hope for to boot. If you’re going to have some spare downtime during your Thanksgiving in Gatlinburg vacation, you certainly won’t run out of things to do.
The weather in the area is great for the season, too. Gatlinburg does get some snow most years, but it certainly isn’t bombarded by snow storms or blizzards that are going to get in the way of your vacation. Up in the Smoky Mountains, you’ll find that the cool, clean mountain air makes for a great addition to your holiday vacation, without being so cold you’ll have to hide inside all day.
Get in the Holiday Spirit at Dollywood
Dollywood always gets in the holiday spirit, and not just for the winter holidays, either. If you’re within driving distance during any of your trips to the area, you can’t miss out on the opportunity to take a trip to Dollywood and see this iconic park up close. This theme park is widely considered to be one of the best in the world, and it’s no surprise as to why. With lively holiday events and embracing the spirit of all seasons, you’re sure to find something you enjoy. They even go out of their way to offer seasonal themed drinks and local foods that you can’t go without sampling during your visit.
They’re also open on Thanksgiving, meaning that you can bring the whole group for a visit after you’ve finished up with your Thanksgiving feast. This is a wonderful time to stop by the park, because they get into the Christmas spirit on the very first day of November. Be sure that you don’t miss out on the nightly Parade of Many Colors or miss out on your chance to see stellar live performances by the talented artists that perform at the park.
Great Smoky Thanksgiving & Christmas Arts & Crafts Show
If you’re staying a few days after Thanksgiving in Gatlinburg, you’ll have the wonderful opportunity to see gorgeous, handcrafted gifts made by local artists and craftsmen. Expect to find things like handmade ceramic pottery, jewelry, hand woven quilts and baskets, scented candles, and so much more.
This arts & crafts show is a great community event that runs every year for Thanksgiving and Christmas, but in 2021 they’re combining the two shows into one massive event. It’s the place to go if you’re looking for that unique holiday gift for someone you care about, and even if you aren’t planning on doing any shopping, the work of these artists is a treat just to observe.
Head Into Town for a Thanksgiving Dinner
Plenty of restaurants close for the holiday, that’s for sure, but there are a few that are dedicated to being open during the holiday to make sure that everyone gets the perfect meal they deserve. Between Gatlinburg and the nearby town of Pigeon Forge, you’ll have a host of fine dining options to treat yourself to.
If you’d prefer to order ahead and pick up your Thanksgiving in Gatlinburg dinner for enjoying back at your vacation home, many of the restaurants offer that as an option as well. Wherever you choose to dine, you’ll be doing it in style, because the hospitality and meals are second to none. If you’re planning on dining out, though, make sure to call ahead and make a reservation so you don’t miss out to the crowds!
Cook Up a Perfect Meal at Your Vacation Rental
Just because there’s plenty for you to do while you’re away from home doesn’t mean you won’t be able to put together the perfect meal to complete the holiday. Our rentals come in all shapes and sizes and come equipped with kitchens that are capable of preparing a feast to remember. From small snacks to full size meals, the only thing you’ll be limited by is your own creativity. So, if you’re planning on eating in instead of heading out into town, all you need to bring is your own food, and let our kitchen suites handle the rest.
Your Smoky Mountain Thanksgiving Awaits
Meals, celebration, shopping, and more are all waiting for you on your holiday getaway. At Smoky Mountain Realty Partners, we’ve made sure to compile a portfolio of properties that can fit the needs of parties of any size. If you’re travelling alone or bringing the whole family for that massive Thanksgiving party, our team will make sure you’re in the perfect spot. That Smoky Mountain air is waiting for you, and after you’ve seen what the area has to offer, we’re sure you’ll want to come back and stay with us again. Get in touch with us now and get your vacation started today!