Gatlinburg Fantasy of Lights Christmas Parade 2024

Winter in the Great Smoky Mountains creates a picturesque setting, especially in Gatlinburg, which is renowned for its festive Christmas celebrations. The holiday season kicks off in early December with the Fantasy of Lights Christmas Parade. This cherished annual event illuminates the downtown area and marks the beginning of the Winter Magic illumination display.

Parade Events

The Fantasy of Lights Christmas Parade in Gatlinburg features a star-studded lineup with a magical display of decorative floats, festive marching bands, and holiday balloons, including a special appearance by Santa Claus. This vibrant parade illuminates downtown Gatlinburg, contributing to the holiday cheer with over a million twinkling lights that adorn the Parkway during the Winter Magic Celebration.

Tree Lighting Ceremony

City officials will hold a grand illumination ceremony for the Gatlinburg Christmas Tree at 7:25 PM on the Parkway Plaza, located at Traffic Light #3. This ceremony marks the beginning of the holiday festivities and adds to the festive atmosphere of the Fantasy of Lights Christmas Parade.

Parade Route & Schedule

The Gatlinburg Fantasy of Lights Christmas Parade is set to begin at 7:30 pm at the Baskins Creek Bypass, making its way through downtown Parkway and concluding at Traffic Light #10. The parade route includes a turn south onto the Parkway and will finish around 9 pm.

Tickets

The Gatlinburg Fantasy of Lights Christmas Parade is free and open to the public, making it accessible for everyone to enjoy. However, due to its popularity, attendees are encouraged to arrive early to secure seating and parking. For those looking for a more exclusive experience, VIP seating options are available, offering grandstand bleacher seating and a commemorative Santa hat. The tickets for both the McMahan Garage and the Convention Center seating are priced at $50.

Christmas in Gatlinburg

The Christmas season in Gatlinburg is indeed magical and full of special events. The Fantasy of Lights Christmas Parade, Great Smoky Christmas Arts & Crafts Show, and the New Year’s Eve Ball Drop and fireworks show are some of the most exciting seasonal events in Great Smoky Mountains National Park.