Smoky Mountains fall activities range from super spooky Halloween events, to beautiful scenic fall drives, and of course a slew of events in Pigeon Forge & Gatlinburg as the colors begin to change. Here are some of our top picks for events and things to do in the Smoky Mountains fall this October.
Bear-Varian Fall Festival
September 9 – October 31, 2023
Anakeesta is celebrating fall with their usual festive traditions. The park will be decked out with seasonal decor (including plenty of pumpkins) and the beautiful changing leaves. Anakeesta will also have haunted rides on the Rail Runner, nighttime zip line rides and movie nights on the weekends in October.
Anakeesta Fall FestivalOktoberfest at Peaceful Side Social
September 16, 2023
Guten tag! Dust off your lederhosen and break out your best dirndl, Oktoberfest is coming back to Peaceful Side Social Saturday, September 16th from 11am-7pm – and this year, they’re going bigger. Guests can enjoy an array of entertainment, delicious food and live music!
OktoberfestDollywood Harvest Festival
Sep 20 - Oct 30, 2023
Carve out time for fall’s biggest event! The Dollywood Harvest Festival presented by Humana is happening September 20 through October 30. This celebration will include events like the Great Pumpkin LumiNights and Southern Gospel Jubilee.
Harvest FestivalTownsend Fall Heritage Festival
September 29 - 30, 2023
Bring your lawn chair and enjoy genuine bluegrass music, arts and crafts, food, and Fall festivities for the entire family at the Townsend Visitors Center. The Townsend Fall Heritage Festival provides an atmosphere where family and friends of all ages can partake in time-honored Appalachian traditions at a free community event!
Heritage FestivalAnnual Rotary Club Craft Fair
Sep 29, 2023 - Oct 28, 2023
Head on over to Patriot Park this October and you'll spot a giant red and white striped tent that houses 75 different artisan booths featuring unique handmade items. The Rotary Club Crafts Festival offers visitors a chance to shop for some fall décor or even purchase some early holiday gifts. Parking is free and 100% of donated admission goes to local charities.
Craft FestivalFall Festival at Ober Mountain
September 29 - October 28, 2023
Formerly known as Oktoberfest, the new Smoky Mountain Fall Festival at Ober Mountain in Gatlinburg features a month of delicious food, live music, giant pumpkin carving, hay mazes, spooky movies and more. Ride the aerial tramway up the mountain and enjoy some ice skating and fall foliage.
Ober's Fall FestivalFall At Kyker Farms
September 30-October 31, 2023
Kyker Farms has tons of fun for families during the fall months. Beginning in September, head to the farm for corn mazes, hayrides, a petting zoo, bonfires, pumpkin patch and more. Admission to the corn maze is just $9.00 for ages 3-5 and $19.50 for ages 6 and up.
Kyker FarmsFall Gatlinburg Craftsmen's Fair
October 5 - 22, 2023
The annual Gatlinburg Craftsmen's Fair will return to the Gatlinburg Convention Center this October. Stop by daily to see demonstrations from talented artisans, view their creations and even shop and take some home with you. The crafts you'll find here make great gifts for the upcoming holiday season!
Craftsmen's FairChalkfest at The Island
October 8, 2023
The annual Chalkfest at The Island promises an excellent showcase of both professional and aspiring talent. This year's theme is food - the recipes, traditions, and stories that continue to be passed down and preserve our Smoky Mountain heritage. The event is free and is sure to stir up your appetite.
ChalkfestWears Valley Fall Fest
October 20 - 22, 2023
This one of a kind fall festival sponsored by Keep Sevierville Beautiful offers three days of family fun. Don't miss out on the crafters, entertainers, and variety of interactive activities for all ages. Call (865) 774-6677 for any questions about the event.
Wears Valley Fall FestGrains & Grits Festival
November 4, 2023
Come out and enjoy a festival of southern spirits and gourmet grub on the peaceful side of the Smokies. This 21+ event brings together a community of craft spirit lovers and connoisseurs with some live music that's guaranteed to get you moving in the crisp autumn air. Purchase your ticket for the Grains & Grits Festival at the Townsend Visitor's Center today.
Grains & Grits