Gatlinburg East / Smoky Mountain KOA Holiday Events

Come to the Smoky's and join us for a beautiful Thanksgiving Dinner. Turkey, Ham and Pie Provided. Bring your favorite Dish to share with others. We look forward to sharing a meal full of thanks with you.

We can't think of a better way to celebrate America turning 250 than enjoying one of America's favorite pastimes - Camping! America will be celebrating 250 years in 2026 with events, media features and lots of memory sharing. Be part of the fun and create lasting memories during this milestone year in America's history!

Book your stay now!

Christmas is a magical time at Dollywood!About 40 minutes away (25 miles), from November 6, 2026 through January 3, 2027.  Dollywood transforms into a 6-million-light winter wonderland for Smoky Mountain Christmas,
Peppermint Valley replaces the Country Fair, a towering tree anchors the nightly show, and indoor productions like Christmas in the Smokies keep you warm between displays.
Named America's Best Christmas Event for over a decade running, and worth every minute of the short drive

The Gatlinburg Chili Cookoff is a flavorful fall tradition where local chefs, restaurants, and talented home cooks compete to serve up their best chili recipes. About 30 minutes away (16 miles), Gatlinburg kicks off the holiday season with its Chili Cook-off and Winter Magic Celebration on November 12, 2026, along the Parkway between the Mountain Mall and Gatlinburg SkyPark. Local restaurants compete for chili bragging rights while the town's Winterfest lights flip on for the season. A genuinely fun way to mark the unofficial start of winter in the Smokies.

A handmade gift makes the holidays feel a little more special! The Great Smoky Christmas Arts & Crafts Show brings local artisans and their handcrafted creations to the Gatlinburg Convention Center. From browsing for thoughtful Christmas gifts to finding a keepsake from your Smoky Mountain getaway, this free holiday craft show in Gatlinburg, Tennessee, offers a cheerful outing to enjoy with the family.Book your basecamp here.

Bundle up and enjoy a little Christmas magic in downtown Gatlinburg! The Fantasy of Lights Christmas Parade fills the Parkway with glowing floats, marching bands, larger-than-life balloons, and holiday entertainment. This beloved Gatlinburg Christmas event brings families together for an evening of twinkling lights and cheerful sights—a sweet way to make holiday memories during your Smoky Mountain getaway.

Count down to 2027 with a little Smoky Mountain sparkle! Gatlinburg's New Year's Eve Ball Drop & Fireworks brings families and friends together around the iconic Space Needle for an exciting midnight celebration. With fireworks lighting up the sky and cheers filling downtown, it's a memorable way to welcome a fresh year with your favorite people during a winter getaway in Gatlinburg, Tennessee.

A winter weekend filled with big serves and team spirit! Winterfest at the Rock brings youth volleyball teams and their families to Rocky Top Sports World in Gatlinburg, Tennessee. Presented by ProTWENTY5, this two-day tournament features competition for ages 12U–18U. For families cheering on their favorite players, it's a chance to celebrate teamwork and make memories together in the Smoky Mountains.

A weekend of dancing, learning, and cheering each other on! Epic Dance Showcase brings its dance convention and solo, duet, and trio competitions to the Gatlinburg Convention Center. For dancers and their families, this Gatlinburg, Tennessee, event offers a chance to share their love of dance, build skills, and celebrate hard work while making memories together in the Smoky Mountains.

Faith, friendship, and a little mountain time! Accelerant Youth Conference brings teens and youth leaders together in Gatlinburg, Tennessee, for a weekend of worship, teaching, and encouragement. This Christian youth gathering offers young people a chance to grow in their faith, connect with friends, and make meaningful memories together during a winter visit to the Smoky Mountains.

A little gospel music and a big birthday celebration! Jason Crabb brings his Smokey Mountain 50th Birthday Bash to the Gatlinburg Convention Center for a weekend of uplifting live music. For families who enjoy sharing songs of faith and an evening together, this Gatlinburg, Tennessee, concert offers a memorable addition to a March getaway in the Smoky Mountains.