5 Ways to Experience Your Own Hallmark Holiday

A 30-year tradition, Gatlinburg’s Winter Magic Celebration illuminates the town. With businesses showcasing festive holiday displays donning millions of sparkling lights, you will not want to miss out on this Hallmark essential. Hop on the trolley or carry on by foot and follow a self-guided tour, complete with a map of the light display locations, through the city. Come sunset, watch as Gatlinburg illuminates the night sky.

Have fun while doing good this holiday season at Gatlinburg’s Festival of Trees. The nearly week-long celebration includes something for all festival goers, from a children’s craft and play area and photos with Santa Clause, to numerous Christmas trees and wreaths. Benefitting the Boys & Girls Club of the Smoky Mountains, the festival gives participants the opportunity to level-up their philanthropic efforts by sponsoring a tree.

No Hallmark holiday movie would be complete without the town Christmas tree lighting and parade. Lucky for you, Gatlinburg is no different. Head to Parkway Plaza and watch as Gatlinburg lights up the night with millions of twinkling lights. The Fantasy of Lights Christmas Parade will follow, where decorated floats, marching bands and Santa Clause rolls through downtown Gatlinburg.

Just because you are in the South, does not mean you cannot live your winter wonderland dreams! Ober Mountain offers skiing, snow tubing and ice skating all winter long for all ages and levels. Ride the tram up the mountain and kick off essential wintertime activities from snow sports to plain old playing in the snow fun.

Step back in time when you enter The Village Shops, crafted with “Old World” architecture top of mind. With unique services to be found at each of the 27 shops, you have your pick of options from breakfast and lunch spots to clothiers and décor. With Winterfest in full swing, The Village Shops remind patrons of a classic German Christmas Market!

Head to Great Smoky Arts and Crafts Community and stop by Santa’s Claus-et. Catering to the holiday spirit, the store offers a range of seasonal décor and gifts, with a variety so expansive that every patron is bound to find the perfect knick-knack.