Gatlinburg Tennessee Christmas Parade 2024 Schedule And Events

The holiday season is upon us, and what better way to get into the festive spirit than by visiting the Smoky Mountains in Gatlinburg, Tennessee? The Gatlinburg Christmas Parade is a beloved annual event that brings joy and cheer to visitors of all ages. In this article, we'll explore the 2024 schedule and events surrounding this iconic parade.

Why Visit Gatlinburg During the Holiday Season?

Gatlinburg is a popular winter destination, and for good reason. The town transforms into a winter wonderland, with millions of lights and decorations adorning the streets, buildings, and trees. The holiday season is the perfect time to visit Gatlinburg, with plenty of activities, events, and attractions to enjoy. From shopping and dining to skiing and snowboarding, there's something for everyone in this beautiful mountain town.

Gatlinburg Christmas Parade 2024 Schedule

The Gatlinburg Christmas Parade is typically held on the first Friday in December, but be sure to check the official schedule for 2024 to confirm the exact date and time.

• Date: Friday, December 6, 2024
• Time: 7:30 pm
• Location: Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN

The parade route will run from Baskins Creek Road to Parkway, with floats, marching bands, and of course, Santa Claus making an appearance.

Events Surrounding the Gatlinburg Christmas Parade

While the parade itself is the main event, there are plenty of other activities and events happening in Gatlinburg during the holiday season. Here are a few things to look out for:

• Fantasy of Lights Christmas Parade: This parade is a Gatlinburg tradition, featuring floats, marching bands, and giant helium balloons.
• Gatlinburg Winterfest: This annual festival runs from mid-November to mid-February, with millions of lights and decorations, as well as special events and activities.
• Gatlinburg Trolley Ride of Lights: Take a festive trolley ride through the streets of Gatlinburg, enjoying the holiday lights and decorations.
• Gatlinburg Space Needle's New Year's Eve Ball Drop: Ring in the new year with a festive celebration at the Gatlinburg Space Needle, complete with a ball drop and fireworks.

Tips for Visiting the Gatlinburg Christmas Parade

If you're planning to attend the Gatlinburg Christmas Parade, here are a few tips to keep in mind:

• Arrive Early: Get to the parade route early to secure a good spot and enjoy the pre-parade festivities.
• Dress Warmly: It can get chilly in the Smoky Mountains, even in December, so be sure to dress warmly and bring blankets or chairs to stay comfortable.
• Bring Snacks and Drinks: There will be plenty of food and drink vendors along the parade route, but you may want to bring your own snacks and drinks to enjoy during the parade.
• Be Prepared for Crowds: The Gatlinburg Christmas Parade is a popular event, so be prepared for large crowds and potential traffic delays.

Gatlinburg Christmas Parade Floats and Participants

The Gatlinburg Christmas Parade features a variety of floats, marching bands, and other participants. Here are a few things you can expect to see:

• Floats: Local businesses, organizations, and community groups create festive floats to showcase their holiday spirit.
• Marching Bands: Area high school and college marching bands perform during the parade, adding to the festive atmosphere.
• Santa Claus: Of course, no Christmas parade would be complete without a visit from jolly old Saint Nick himself.

Gatlinburg Christmas Parade Route and Parking

The Gatlinburg Christmas Parade route runs from Baskins Creek Road to Parkway, with plenty of parking options available along the way. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

• Parking: There are several parking lots and garages along the parade route, including the Gatlinburg Parking Garage and the Baskins Creek Road Parking Lot.
• Parade Route: The parade route is approximately 1 mile long, running from Baskins Creek Road to Parkway.

Gatlinburg Christmas Parade Accommodations

If you're planning to visit Gatlinburg for the Christmas Parade, you'll want to book your accommodations well in advance. Here are a few options to consider:

• Hotels: Gatlinburg has a wide range of hotels, from budget-friendly options to luxury resorts.
• Cabins: Consider renting a cabin or chalet for a more homey holiday experience.
• Vacation Rentals: Gatlinburg has plenty of vacation rentals available, including condos, townhouses, and apartments.

Conclusion

The Gatlinburg Christmas Parade is a beloved annual event that's sure to get you in the holiday spirit. With its festive atmosphere, exciting floats and participants, and plenty of holiday activities and events, Gatlinburg is the perfect destination for a fun and memorable holiday vacation. So mark your calendars for the first Friday in December and get ready to experience the magic of the Gatlinburg Christmas Parade!

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