Best Read Guide Smoky Mountains

Snowy Mountain Village at Soaky Mountain Waterpark
2025-11-14 - 2025-12-30 | Soaky Mountain Waterpark, 175 Gists Creek Rd, Sevierville, TN, 37876, United States
Soaky Mountain Waterpark Snowy Mountain Village
Bring the whole family for a magical time at Snowy Mountain Village, where fun and festivities await guests of all ages! Enjoy inflatable bounce houses, carnival games, crafts, photo ops, and plenty of delicious food and sweet treats. On select nights, you can even meet Boomer or Santa Claus himself for an extra dose of holiday cheer!
Open from the start of Shadrack’s Christmas Wonderland through December 30, Snowy Mountain Village is the perfect way to celebrate the season. Don’t miss your chance to capture the magic — Photos with Santa are available November 29–30 and December 1, 6–8, 13–15, and 20–23 from 7:00 to 10:00 PM.

Anakeesta's Enchanted Christmas
2025-11-14 08:00 - 2026-01-04 17:00 (America/New_York) | Anakeesta, 576 Parkway, Gatlinburg, United States
Experience the wonder of the season with a reimagined Christmas celebration filled with dazzling lights, festive performances, and heartwarming holiday cheer. It’s a magical winter wonderland where every moment shines a little brighter!

Color Me Mutt 5K Color Run
2025-11-15 08:30 - 17:00 (America/New_York) | Nascar SpeedPark, 1545 Parkway, Sevierville, TN, 37862, United States
Color Me Mutt 5K Color Run
Get ready to celebrate a decade of color, fun, and furry friends at the 10th Annual Color Me Mutt® 5K & 1-Mile Fun Run/Walk on Saturday, November 15, 2025, at NASCAR SpeedPark in Sevierville! This lively, pet-friendly event welcomes participants of all ages and fitness levels—whether you’re sprinting with your pup or strolling alongside friends.
Experience bursts of color at every station, water breaks for both two- and four-legged racers, and an atmosphere filled with energy and excitement. Hosted by the PARC Foundation, this event supports local pet and community programs. The race kicks off at 8:30 a.m., and while dogs are encouraged to join the fun, they’re not required to participate!

Pigeon Forge Spring Rod Run
2026-04-16 - 2026-04-18 | LeConte Center at Pigeon Forge, United States
Pigeon Forge Spring Rod Run
Get ready for chrome, classics, and high-octane excitement at the Pigeon Forge Spring Rod Run, returning to Pigeon Forge April 16–18, 2026. As one of the largest and most celebrated automotive gatherings in the Southeast, this three-day event draws thousands of car enthusiasts and spectators to the Smoky Mountains for an unforgettable showcase of hot rods, muscle cars, classics, and custom builds from across the country.
Held at the spacious LeConte Center at Pigeon Forge, the Spring Rod Run features an impressive indoor and outdoor car show, swap meet, car corral, and vendor marketplace. Attendees can browse rare parts, automotive memorabilia, accessories, and collectibles while connecting with fellow enthusiasts who share a passion for vintage and performance vehicles. Whether you’re searching for restoration parts or simply admiring beautifully restored rides, there’s something for every level of automotive fan.
A highlight of the weekend is the prestigious Top 25 Awards, Ultimate 5 Awards, and King of the Hill competition, recognizing outstanding craftsmanship, design, and originality among participating vehicles. Outside the show grounds, the Parkway itself becomes part of the experience as classic cars cruise through town, creating a lively, nostalgic atmosphere unique to Rod Run weekend in Pigeon Forge.
The Pigeon Forge Spring Rod Run is open to the public, making it easy for visitors to attend even without registering a vehicle. Guests can enjoy food vendors, family-friendly viewing areas, and endless photo opportunities with some of the finest show cars in the region.
Whether you’re a lifelong gearhead or simply love classic Americana, the 2026 Pigeon Forge Spring Rod Run delivers horsepower, heritage, and Smoky Mountain hospitality in one spectacular automotive celebration.

Dollywood Flower and Food Festival
2026-04-18 00:00 - 2026-06-08 00:00 UTC | Dollywood, United States
Dollywood’s Flower & Food
Festival 2026
Celebrate the beauty of spring at Dollywood’s Flower & Food Festival, one of the most vibrant seasonal events in the Smoky Mountains. Hosted at Dollywood, this annual festival transforms the park into a colorful wonderland filled with blooming flowers, creative displays, and delicious culinary experiences.
Located in Pigeon Forge, Dollywood’s Flower & Food Festival features millions of flowers arranged in stunning sculptures and larger-than-life mosaicultures that bring the park to life. Guests can stroll through beautifully landscaped gardens while enjoying the fresh mountain air and scenic surroundings of the Great Smoky Mountains.
Food lovers will delight in the festival’s diverse menu of seasonal dishes, featuring fresh ingredients and unique flavors inspired by springtime in the South. From sweet treats to savory bites, there’s something to satisfy every craving. In addition to the food and floral displays, visitors can enjoy live music, entertainment, and interactive experiences throughout the park.
Perfect for families, couples, and groups, Dollywood’s Flower & Food Festival offers a memorable way to experience the Smokies during one of the most beautiful times of the year. The combination of vibrant colors, delicious food, and world-class entertainment makes this event a must-visit attraction.
Plan your visit early and make the most of your spring getaway in Pigeon Forge. Don’t miss Dollywood’s Flower & Food Festival—where nature, flavor, and fun come together in full bloom.

Library Appreciation Days WonderWorks
2026-04-19 - 2026-04-25 | Wonder Works, 100 Music Road, Pigeon Forge, TN, 37863, United States
Library Appreciation Days WonderWorks
Celebrate the important role of libraries and the people who make them thrive at Library Appreciation Days at WonderWorks! Hosted at the upside-down attraction, WonderWorks, this special event honors librarians and library staff with exclusive admission offers and a chance to experience one of the most exciting indoor attractions in the Smoky Mountains.
Located in Pigeon Forge, WonderWorks is known for its interactive exhibits that blend education and entertainment. During Library Appreciation Days, eligible guests can enjoy hands-on activities that explore science, technology, engineering, art, and math (STEAM). From the indoor ropes course to immersive exhibits like the earthquake simulator and space discovery zone, there’s something for curious minds of all ages.
This event is a perfect opportunity for librarians, educators, and their families to unwind, explore, and be inspired. It’s also a great way to connect learning with fun in a dynamic environment that celebrates curiosity and discovery.
Beyond the event, visitors can take advantage of everything Pigeon Forge has to offer, from family-friendly attractions to dining and shopping, all set against the scenic backdrop of the Great Smoky Mountains.
If you’re planning to attend Library Appreciation Days at WonderWorks, be sure to check eligibility requirements and event dates in advance. This popular event is a favorite among educators and tends to draw strong attendance each year.
Don’t miss Library Appreciation Days at WonderWorks—where learning comes to life and those who inspire it are celebrated.

Grand National F-100 Truck Show
2026-05-14 - 2026-05-16 | LeConte Center at Pigeon Forge, United States
Grand National F-100 Truck Show
Get ready for a celebration of classic American trucks at the Grand National F-100 Truck Show, returning to Pigeon Forge for another exciting year. Held at the LeConte Center at Pigeon Forge, this highly anticipated event brings together Ford F-100 enthusiasts from across the country for a weekend filled with vintage style, craftsmanship, and automotive passion.
The Grand National F-100 Show showcases hundreds of beautifully restored and customized Ford F-100 trucks, spanning decades of design and innovation. From pristine restorations that honor the truck’s original heritage to bold custom builds featuring modern upgrades, every vehicle on display tells a unique story. It’s a must-see event for collectors, builders, and anyone who appreciates the timeless appeal of classic pickup trucks.
In addition to the impressive show trucks, visitors can explore a variety of vendors offering parts, accessories, memorabilia, and specialty items. Whether you’re searching for hard-to-find components or simply browsing, the vendor area adds even more to the experience. Attendees also have the opportunity to connect with fellow enthusiasts, share stories, and gain inspiration from some of the finest F-100 builds in the country.
Set against the backdrop of the Smoky Mountains, the event combines automotive excellence with the charm and attractions of Pigeon Forge. Guests can enjoy nearby dining, shopping, and entertainment while making the most of their visit. The welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere makes it easy for visitors of all ages to enjoy the show.
Whether you’re a lifelong Ford truck fan or just discovering the appeal of classic pickups, the Grand National F-100 Show delivers an unforgettable weekend of horsepower, history, and Smoky Mountain fun.

Pontiacs in Pigeon Forge 2026
2026-06-04 - 2026-06-06 | LeConte Center at Pigeon Forge, United States
Pontiacs in Pigeon Forge 2026
Experience the power and legacy of classic American muscle at Pontiacs in Pigeon Forge 2026 is returning to Pigeon Forge. This highly anticipated Smoky Mountain car show celebrates all things Pontiac, featuring a stunning lineup of classic, restored, and custom Pontiac vehicles from across the country. From vintage GTOs and Firebirds to rare models and modern builds, attendees can explore a wide variety of iconic cars that highlight the history and performance of the Pontiac brand.
Held in the heart of the Smokies, this event draws car enthusiasts, collectors, and fans looking for one of the top automotive events in Tennessee. Visitors can enjoy vehicle displays, vendor booths, swap meet opportunities, and the chance to connect with fellow Pontiac enthusiasts. Whether you’re searching for parts, showcasing your own vehicle, or simply admiring the craftsmanship, Pontiacs in Pigeon Forge offers something for everyone.
Conveniently located near popular attractions, restaurants, and lodging, this event makes it easy to turn your visit into a full Smoky Mountain getaway. If you’re looking for things to do in Pigeon Forge in 2026 or planning your trip around one of the region’s top car shows, Pontiacs in Pigeon Forge is a must-see event for automotive fans.

Burden of Proof: The Case Against James Earl Ray | Alcatraz East Event
2026-08-15 10:00 - 22:00 (America/New_York)
Burden of Proof: The Case Against James Earl Ray
Step into one of the most debated criminal cases in American history with “Burden of Proof: The Case Against James Earl Ray” at Alcatraz East Crime Museum. This compelling exhibit invites visitors to examine the evidence, question the narrative, and explore the investigation surrounding the assassination of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr..
Located in Pigeon Forge, Alcatraz East Crime Museum is known for its immersive and thought-provoking exhibits, and this event is no exception. “Burden of Proof” takes a closer look at the case against James Earl Ray, the man convicted of assassinating Dr. King in 1968. Through detailed displays, historical artifacts, and expert analysis, visitors will gain a deeper understanding of the evidence presented and the questions that continue to surround the case.
This limited-time exhibit is ideal for history enthusiasts, true crime fans, and anyone interested in the complexities of the American justice system. Guests will have the opportunity to explore different perspectives, review key facts, and engage with one of the most significant moments in U.S. history.
In addition to the exhibit, visitors can experience the museum’s wide range of interactive displays covering crime history, forensic science, and law enforcement. Conveniently located near top Smoky Mountain attractions, it’s a must-visit stop during your trip.
Don’t miss “Burden of Proof: The Case Against James Earl Ray” at Alcatraz East—an educational and eye-opening experience that challenges visitors to think critically about history, justice, and truth.

Fall Pigeon in Forge Rod Run 2026
2026-09-17 - 2026-09-19 | LeConte Center at Pigeon Forge, United States
The Fall Rod Run in Pigeon Forge 2026 is one of the most popular automotive events in the country, drawing thousands of car enthusiasts each year to the heart of the Smoky Mountains. This exciting event transforms the Parkway into a rolling showcase of classic cars, hot rods, and vintage muscle cars from every era.
Visitors can expect an action-packed weekend filled with car shows, a massive swap meet, vendor exhibits, and plenty of opportunities to connect with fellow automotive fans. The highlight of the Fall Rod Run is cruising along the Parkway, where polished chrome, roaring engines, and eye-catching paint jobs create an unforgettable atmosphere day and night.
Hosted at the popular LeConte Center at Pigeon Forge, the event also features a huge indoor car show where participants compete for awards and showcase some of the finest restored and custom vehicles in the region. Whether you’re a collector, builder, or simply a fan of classic cars, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Beyond the event, visitors can explore nearby attractions, restaurants, and scenic views throughout the Great Smoky Mountains. With fall foliage adding vibrant color to the landscape, it’s the perfect time to plan a Smoky Mountain getaway.
If you’re planning to attend the Fall Rod Run in Pigeon Forge, be sure to book accommodations early, as hotels and cabins fill up quickly during this popular event weekend.
Don’t miss your chance to experience the Fall Rod Run—where classic cars, community, and mountain beauty come together for one incredible event.
