champagne and sparklers at New Year's Eve party

December 06, 2023

5 Ways to Celebrate New Year’s Eve in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge

The year is almost over, which means it’s time to figure out where you’ll be ringing in the new year! There are so many great ways to celebrate in the Smoky Mountains, from fireworks shows to dance parties to light displays and more. With so many options to choose from, it can be hard to decide where to go. That’s why we’ve put together this list of the top 5 ways to celebrate New Year’s Eve in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge this year!

1. Gatlinburg’s New Year’s Eve Fireworks Show and Ball Drop

One of the most popular ways to celebrate New Year’s Eve in Gatlinburg is watching the annual New Year’s Eve Fireworks Show and Ball Drop. This event is known as the “Best New Year’s Eve Show in the South.” Take part in one of the nation’s largest New Year’s Eve events as you welcome in the new year around the Gatlinburg Space Needle. Live music starts at the base of the Space Needle at 10:00 P.M. This year, you can watch a drone show over the Gatlinburg Convention Center at 11:53 P.M. as multiple scenes of Gatlinburg light up the night sky. Then, count down to midnight and watch the ball drop from the Space Needle, accompanied by a spectacular fireworks show.

2. New Year’s Eve Celebration at The Island in Pigeon Forge

The Island in Pigeon Forge at night

If you’re looking to ring in the new year in the heart of Pigeon Forge, make sure you stop by the New Year’s Eve Celebration at The Island in Pigeon Forge. The Island is hosting its annual New Year’s Eve FREE Concert for all to attend, with headliner Stephen Goff and The Royals. The concert starts at 10:00 P.M. and will continue into the new year. This New Year’s Eve event also features midnight fireworks set to a soundtrack simulcast on Knoxville’s WIVK radio station. Admission to the event is free, and free parking is available.

3. New Year’s Eve Lights of Wonder at Gatlinburg SkyPark

What could be better than welcoming the new year from the top of a mountain? The Gatlinburg SkyPark is hosting a unique way to celebrate New Year’s Eve in Gatlinburg with New Year’s Eve Lights of Wonder. This event provides you with a unique view of the Gatlinburg Space Needle’s fireworks display and the town below. Watch the fireworks show from 500 feet above downtown Gatlinburg and approximately 100 feet above the Space Needle’s launch area. This event also features Ear Jams Silent Disco, who will turn the SkyDeck into a New Year’s Eve Dance Party! Special tickets are required to access the Gatlinburg SkyPark’s New Year’s Eve Lights of Wonder event.

4. New Year’s Eve Celebration at The Mountain Mile

group of people watching fireworks show

Another great way to celebrate New Year’s Eve in Pigeon Forge is the New Year’s Eve Celebration at The Mountain Mile. This event includes all sorts of family-friendly activities and festive fun. Kids of all ages will enjoy face painting, obstacle courses, and street performances. Don’t forget to sip on some hot chocolate and apple cider to keep you warm! And, of course, there will be a fantastic fireworks display to welcome in the new year. This New Year’s Eve Celebration begins at 10:00 P.M. and will continue into the new year.

5. NYE Bash at The Pines

In nearby Sevierville, you can find a unique New Year’s Eve party where you can celebrate all night long. The NYE Bash at The Pines in downtown Sevierville offers an unforgettable evening of fun and celebration. This event begins at 8:00 P.M. and ends at 1:00 A.M. Ring in the new year with a champagne toast and balloon drop for a memorable and photogenic New Year’s Eve in Sevierville. You can also enjoy late-night snacks from the junk food bar, including wings, pizza, tater tots, and more. There’s even a live DJ to provide music for you to dance the night away!

Where to Stay this New Year’s Eve

These are some of the best ways to celebrate New Year’s Eve in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge. If you’re looking for a more relaxed way to celebrate away from the crowds, you can ring in the new year from the comfort of your cabin rental. Watch the ball drop on TV and share a champagne toast and a New Year’s kiss with your special someone. If you want to celebrate the new year in a more personal and private setting, or you just need a comfortable place to retreat to after the festivities end, book a cabin for the perfect New Year’s Eve in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge. Browse our Smoky Mountain cabins to start planning your New Year’s Eve Celebration today!