Best Tennessee Christmas Markets and Holiday Events for 2024

Tennessee comes alive with holiday cheer during the Christmas season, from the twinkling lights of Dollywood to charming holiday markets and winter festivals. Whether you’re exploring the mountains of Gatlinburg, the bustling city of Nashville, or the holiday-lit streets of Memphis, Tennessee has a wealth of festive events to offer. Here’s a list of the top Christmas events and markets across the state for 2024 to make your holiday season extra special!

1. Dollywood’s Smoky Mountain Christmas

Experience a Smoky Mountain Christmas at Dollywood with over 5 million lights, live holiday shows, a Christmas parade, and festive decor throughout the park. Enjoy rides, holiday treats, and an incredible atmosphere in this award-winning holiday destination.

• Dates: November 9, 2024 – January 5, 2025
• Location: Dollywood, Pigeon Forge
• Website: dollywood.com

2. Gaylord Opryland’s A Country Christmas

The iconic Gaylord Opryland Resort in Nashville is transformed into a winter wonderland with over 3 million lights, ICE! sculptures, holiday performances, a skating rink, and a Christmas village. This holiday extravaganza is a must-see for families.

• Dates: November 10, 2024 – January 1, 2025
• Location: Gaylord Opryland Resort, Nashville
• Website: christmasatgaylordopryland.marriott.com

3. Knoxville’s Christmas in the City

Knoxville’s Christmas in the City offers a month-long celebration featuring the Regal Celebration of Lights, Holidays on Ice skating rink, and holiday markets. The festivities kick off with a tree lighting and continue with seasonal activities throughout downtown.

• Dates: November 22, 2024 – January 1, 2025
• Location: Downtown Knoxville
• Website: knoxvilletn.gov

4. Gatlinburg Winter Magic and Trolley Ride of Lights

Gatlinburg’s annual Winter Magic features millions of LED lights decorating the streets and attractions of this charming mountain town. Take a guided Trolley Ride of Lights to see the displays and enjoy the festive atmosphere of the Smoky Mountains.

• Dates: November 15, 2024 – January 31, 2025
• Location: Downtown Gatlinburg
• Website: gatlinburg.com

5. Enchanted Garden of Lights at Rock City

Located atop Lookout Mountain, the Enchanted Garden of Lights at Rock City features dazzling displays, a forest of Christmas trees, and magical holiday scenes. This event also includes a visit from Santa and festive holiday music, creating a beautiful winter experience.

• Dates: November 22, 2024 – January 5, 2025
• Location: Rock City, Lookout Mountain
• Website: seerockcity.com

6. Graceland’s Christmas Lighting Ceremony

Celebrate Christmas with Elvis at Graceland in Memphis, where the mansion is decorated for the season with lights, life-sized decorations, and holiday cheer. Enjoy special events, concerts, and holiday tours that give fans a festive look at the King’s home.

• Dates: November 21, 2024 – January 5, 2025 (Lighting ceremony on November 21)
• Location: Graceland, Memphis
• Website: graceland.com

7. Nashville Christmas Village

The Nashville Christmas Village is a popular holiday market featuring over 260 vendors offering unique gifts, holiday decor, and artisanal products. This indoor market also supports the Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt, making it a festive and charitable outing.

• Dates: November 15 – November 17, 2024
• Location: The Fairgrounds Nashville, Nashville
• Website: christmasvillage.org

8. Smoky Mountain Winterfest in Sevierville, Pigeon Forge, and Gatlinburg

Winterfest transforms the towns of Sevierville, Pigeon Forge, and Gatlinburg into a winter wonderland with over 15 million holiday lights. Enjoy seasonal activities, light displays, and special events in the heart of the Smoky Mountains.

• Dates: November 11, 2024 – February 29, 2025
• Location: Sevierville, Pigeon Forge, and Gatlinburg
• Website: visitsevierville.com

9. Victorian Holiday Home Tour in Franklin

Step back in time at the Victorian Holiday Home Tour in Franklin, where historic homes are decorated for Christmas. This event offers guided tours through beautifully adorned residences in one of Tennessee’s most charming towns, giving visitors a taste of holiday history.

• Dates: December 14 – December 15, 2024
• Location: Historic Downtown Franklin
• Website: visitfranklin.com

10. Christmas at the Chattanooga Choo Choo

The Chattanooga Choo Choo’s annual holiday celebration includes Christmas lights, festive decor, holiday train rides, and visits from Santa. This iconic hotel and entertainment venue is the perfect spot to get into the holiday spirit in Chattanooga.

• Dates: November 24, 2024 – January 1, 2025
• Location: Chattanooga Choo Choo, Chattanooga
• Website: choochoo.com