Draped in more than 5 million lights, Pigeon Forge creates a winter wonderland for locals and guests alike to enjoy during the city's annual Winterfest celebration. The lights of Winterfest shine from early November through the end of February.

The Winterfest fun begins on Tuesday, November 6, 2018 at 4 p.m. at Patriot Park in the heart of Pigeon Forge. Guests can enjoy local food vendors, a children's area, and live entertainment including a performance by Chris Blue, winner of Season 12 of the Voice. Then join us as city officials flip the switch and the city of Pigeon Forge twinkles with spectacular lights.

Whether this is your first time to visit Pigeon Forge, or you’re making a return trip, Winterfest is the perfect occasion to share special memories with family and friends.

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Offering mouth-watering recipes of homemade chili ranging from mild and delightful to wild and adventurous, the City of Gatlinburg hosts its annual Chili Cookoff presented by Bush's Chili Beans on Wednesday, Nov. 7 from 5 to 8 p.m. in downtown Gatlinburg. Visitors will enjoy live entertainment from The Petty Hearts - the National Tom Petty Tribute Show. The Petty Hearts are a natioanlly recognized Tom Petty tribute band preforming renditions of Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers’ extensive catalog of Top 40 hits.

Participants in the Chili Cookoff will be competing for the coveted People’s Choice Award, Best Booth Presentation, Best Apron. While the street event is free, tickets for chili sampling are $10.

City dignitaries will signify the start of Gatlinburg Winter Magic with a ceremonial lighting of more than 3 million lights throughout the city.