30th Annual Gatlinburg Fantasy of Lights Christmas Parade
There is no better way to greet the Christmas season than Gatlinburg’s Fantasy of Lights Christmas Parade at 7:30 p.m. on December 2nd. A multitude of glistening lights adorn the streets and skyline, all attentively placed in the most beautiful spots of Gatlinburg. Santa and his helpers will herald your presence with hugs and smiles as you experience the parade extravaganza. The festivities include artificial snow, sparklers, dancing, little elves, inflatable costumes, clowns, horses, costumed llamas, giant balloons and a breathtaking 30-foot Christmas tree. It is no wonder that over 80,000 visitors flock to the Pigeon Forge area for the Christmas Parade each year; the parade is designed to welcome guests and evoke Christmas cheer.
Giant helium balloons hover over illuminated floats, marking the parade route with distinctive Christmas flair. The route begins at Traffic Light 1A on Highway 321 and rambles on to Traffic Light 10 at the corner of Parkway and Ski Mountain Road.
Before the parade begins at 7:30, from 6-7 p.m. children are invited to visit with Santa and all the elves for a splendid autograph party at the Riverbend Mall at Traffic Light 3.
Free parking is available at the Gatlinburg Park and Ride lot located at the Welcome Center just before the entrance to town. Parking is also available at the Reagan Drive parking lot, the Aquarium parking lot, and various additional parking lots located in the downtown area. Special trolley tours of the city to view the illuminated chandeliers that drape the streets and other lighted displays throughout Gatlinburg are available on the Winterfest Trolley Ride of Lights tour.